The story of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints commonly called the Mormon Church, holds a complicated story of race relations, particularly regarding Blacks within Mormonism. This article seeks to provide an objective and factual analysis of the history of treatment for Black people within the Mormon Church in addition to examining the policies and restrictions applied and how the Church has changed to reject old beliefs and practices that were deemed racist.
Blacks are part of Mormonism – A Historical Overview
Between 1852 and 1978, the Mormon Church enforced a policy that restricted blacks in Mormonism from priesthood ordination. The policy was based on the interpretations of scriptures and beliefs of the time regarding race. Blacks were not permitted to take part in certain rites or responsibilities of the Church. This resulted in discrimination in the Mormon community. It is important to recognize the fact that this discrimination was not exclusive to Mormonism It was a reflection of the widespread racial prejudices present in American society during that era.
Mormon Black Peoples & the 1978 Revelation
A significant turning point occurred in 1978, when the President of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball was given what Mormons consider to be an enlightenment from God concerning the exclusion of Black people from priesthood. This revelation is believed to be the pivotal event that changed the long-standing policy. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints confirmed that Black individuals could now hold the priesthood and fully participate in the activities of the Church.
The Church of today has a clear stance against racism, while also promoting unity and inviting everyone to accept Jesus Christ, regardless of race. The Church’s doctrine today affirms all people are equal and focuses on God’s acceptance of all people regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic situation, or other.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Despite the prejudices racialized of his time The Mormon Church’s founder, Joseph Smith, demonstrated fairly equitable treatment of Black individuals. Joseph Smith is known to have ordained Blacks into the priesthood during his time. This practice was in line with Smith’s teachings of equality and inclusivity within the Church. The clergy who embraced Smith’s policies enacted laws that excluded people of color from the priesthood. This reflected the shift in views of society towards race at the turn of the 19th century.
Racism It is something to address and working towards unity
In modern times in the present, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has taken significant steps to deal with the effects of racism and work towards unity within its members. The Church leadership has released statements in which they denounce past racial practices and beliefs. They stress that racism of any kind is in violation of the Church’s teachings and the fundamental beliefs of the Church.
The Church actively promotes understanding, love, and acceptance among its diverse membership which affirms the importance and worth of every individual. Members are educated about importance and rejection of prejudiced views, as well in promoting inclusivity, cultural awareness, and sensitivity.
The article’s conclusion is:
Understanding the story of Blacks and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints development on race is crucial for promoting equality and fostering unity. The Church’s history of trauma is reflected in a policy that, for more than a century, prohibited Blacks from being ordained to the priesthood. The revelation of 1978, however, marked a turning moment in the Church’s embrace of equality and inclusivity.
The current stance of the Mormon Church opposes racism and declares equality. The Church also promotes tolerance and love for every member. The Church has actively moved forward, addressing its old racial prejudices and making meaningful improvements. It is working to ensure all members feel valued and respected in the Mormon community.
