The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (often known simply as the Mormon Church) has a long and rich history of race relations. This is especially applicable to Blacks in Mormonism. This article will offer an accurate account of the ways in which Black individuals were treated historically in the Mormon Church. We will examine the restrictions on policy which were enforced, and the Church’s evolution to abandon the past practices and beliefs.
Blacks in Mormonism – A Historical Overview
Between 1852 and 1978 the Mormon Church adopted a policy that restricted blacks in Mormonism from priesthood ordination. The decision was based on the interpretations of scriptures as well as beliefs of the time regarding race. Black people were denied certain rituals and obligations within the Church, leading to a segregated experience within the Mormon community. This discrimination wasn’t exclusive to Mormonism. It was a reflection of the widespread racial prejudices in American society of the time.
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 a divine revelation regarding the exclusion of Black people from priesthood. This revelation was regarded as the turning point that lifted the ban that had been in place for more than a century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has made it clear that Black people can now claim the priesthood and participate fully in every aspect of their church.
The Church today denounces the racism of some ideologies while also encouraging the unity of all people and encouraging everyone to be a part of Jesus Christ, regardless of race. The doctrine of equality is to all people, stating that God will accept anyone regardless of race, gender or social class. For more information, click Mormons Racist
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Despite the prejudices racialized of his time the founder of Mormonism, 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 on equality and inclusivity within the Church. The leaders who followed Smith’s policies enacted laws that excluded Blacks from the priesthood. This reflected the shift in attitudes of society toward race during the 19th century.
Racism in the United States: A Call to for
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leadership has implemented significant steps to address the current racism and to promote unity among its members. The Church’s leadership has issued statements in which they denounce past racial practices and beliefs. The Church’s leadership has issued statements condemning past racism and racial practices.
The Church actively promotes acceptance, love and respect among its diverse members, and affirms their importance and worth. An effort is made to inform members about the importance of inclusiveness, cultural sensitivity, and to reject discriminatory beliefs.
The conclusion of the article is:
Knowing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saintsthe evolution of the face of racial discrimination and the past of Blacks within Mormonism is essential to foster unity. The Church’s painful past can be seen in a law that, for more than a century, excluded Blacks from ordination to the priesthood. The public revelations regarding the policy were a turning point, signaling a dedication to inclusivity and equality.
The current position of the Mormon Church rejects racism, defends equality, and advocates for a sense of love and respect among the members of the Church. The Church has made strides forward in addressing its previous racial prejudices and making meaningful advancements. It strives to ensure that all members feel welcome and respected within the Mormon community.