The history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, often referred to as the Mormon Church, holds a multi-layered story about race relations, and specifically Blacks within Mormonism. This article offers a factual, objective look at the treatment of Blacks within the Mormon Church. It explains the policies and practices that were put in place and how the Church developed to dispel previous beliefs and practices that were linked to race.
Blacks in Mormonism: A Historical Overview
Between 1852 and 1978 between 1852 and 1978, the Mormon Church adopted a policy which prohibited blacks within Mormonism from priesthood ordination. The policy was a result of religious and racial beliefs during the time. Black people were denied certain rituals and duties within the Church, leading to discrimination in the Mormon community. This discriminatory practice wasn’t unique to Mormonism. It reflected the widespread racial prejudices that existed in American society at that time.
Mormon Black People and 1978 Revelation
The turning point in history occurred in 1978, when then President of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball received what Mormons consider to be a divine revelation regarding the exclusion of Black people from the priesthood. This revelation was a turning point in the Church’s policy, which had been in effect for more than one century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints affirmed that Black individuals were now able to hold the priesthood and participate fully in all facets of the Church.
The Church today rejects any discrimination against race and strives for peace, welcoming everyone, regardless of race or ethnicity to the message of Jesus Christ. The doctrine today affirms that all people are equal and emphasizes that God will accept everyone regardless of race, gender, or social status.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church despite the racial prejudices at his time showed kind and gentle treatment to Black individuals. Joseph Smith may have ordained Black men to the Priesthood in his lifetime, as per historical records. Smith’s beliefs about equality and inclusion in the Church were reflected in this ritual. However, later leaders introduced policies that excluded Black individuals from the priesthood, reflecting the evolving society’s attitudes towards race in the mid-19th century.
Racism and Unity: What do we address it
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leaders have taken several steps to tackle discrimination in the present and strive for a sense of unity among its members. The Church’s leadership has released statements disavowing previous racial practices and beliefs. The Church’s leadership issued statements disavowing previous racism and practices.
The Church actively promotes tolerance, love and understanding among its diverse members, recognizing their importance and worth. It is a priority to teach members about the importance of acceptance, diversity, and the denial of discriminatory beliefs. For more information, click Mormon Black People
Conclusion
Understanding the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saintsthe evolution of handling racial discrimination and the history of Blacks within Mormonism is crucial to promoting the unity and equality. The restriction of Blacks from the priesthood for more than 100 years is a traumatic chapter in the Church’s past. The revelations made about this policy marked a turning-point, indicating the Church’s commitment to inclusion.
The current position of the Mormon Church rejects racism, defends equality, and stands for acceptance and love among the members of the Church. The Church has been actively moving forward, addressing its old racism and has made significant advancements. It is working to ensure everyone feels valued and valued in the Mormon community.