The background of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints frequently referred to as the Mormon Church, holds a complex narrative concerning race relations, and specifically Blacks within Mormonism. This article offers an objective and factual review of the treatment given to blacks in the Mormon Church. The article outlines the policies that were implemented and the way in which the Church developed to dispel past beliefs and practices related to racism.
Blacks in Mormonism History Overview
Between 1851 and 1897, the Mormon Church was a church with a doctrine that prohibited blacks from being ordained to the priesthood. This restriction was a result of interpretations of scripture and race-based beliefs at the period. The black community was not allowed to take part in certain rites or responsibilities of the Church. This resulted in discrimination in the Mormon community. It is essential to understand that this discrimination wasn’t solely related to Mormonism. It represented racial prejudices prevalent throughout American culture during that period.
Mormon Black Peoples and the 1978 Revelation
A pivotal turning point happened in 1978, when the President of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball was given what Mormons believe was a divine revelation regarding the exclusion of Black people from the priesthood. This revelation, regarded as an important moment, ended the policy that was in place for over 100 years. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints declared that blacks were now able to become priests and can participate in all aspects of Church life.
The Church’s position today is to reject the racist ideology, seeking unification and welcoming all people regardless of race or background, to accept the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The doctrine of equality is for all, stressing that God is open to all, regardless of race, gender or the status of their social life.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church despite the racial prejudices of the time He displayed a compassionate and fair treatment of Black people. Joseph Smith is known to have ordained Blacks into the priesthood in his time. This was in accordance with Smith’s teachings about equality and diversity within the Church. However, the subsequent leaders put in place policies that prevented Priests of African descent from becoming priests, reflecting changing attitudes towards race during the middle of the 19th century. For more information, click Mormons and Black People
Racism It is something to address and working towards unity
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leaders have taken significant measures to confront the current racism and to promote unity among its members. The Church leadership has released statements that disavow historical racial practices and beliefs. They stress that racism in any form is against the doctrines of Jesus Christ and the core doctrines of the Church.
The Church is actively promoting understanding, compassion, and tolerance of its diverse members, affirming the value and value of every person. The Church is working to educate members on the importance of inclusion, cultural sensitivity and the rejection of the discriminatory beliefs.
The conclusion of the article is:
Understanding the history of Blacks and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints evolution on issues of race is vital to promote equality and foster unity. The practice that barred Blacks from the priesthood for more than 100 years marks a difficult period in the history of the Church. However, the subsequent announcement in 1978 was an important moment, indicating an openness and equality.
The current position of the Mormon Church is to reject discrimination, promote equality, and promote love and acceptability among its members. The Church has been actively moving forward by addressing its past racial prejudices and making meaningful progress. It is working to ensure that all members feel valued and respected in the Mormon community.