The story of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints commonly known as the Mormon Church, holds a intricate story regarding race relations, particularly regarding Blacks within Mormonism. This article is an objective, factual examination of the way in which people were treated by African-Americans within the Mormon Church. It explains the policies implemented and the way in which the Church changed to reject old beliefs and practices linked to race.
Blacks in Mormonism: A Historical Overview
Between 1852-1978, Mormon Church had a rule which prohibited blacks from ordination to the priesthood. The decision was based on the interpretations of scriptures as well as opinions of the day regarding race. Black individuals were denied certain Church rituals and obligations that led to a secluded Mormon community. It is important to recognize that this discriminatory act was not exclusive to Mormonism however, it represented the widespread prejudices racial that were prevalent in American society in that time.
The Mormon Black Peoples, the 1978 Revelation
The turning point in history occurred in 1978 when the President of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball received what Mormons believe to be an enlightenment from God concerning the exclusion of Black people from priesthood. This revelation, regarded as crucial, lifted the rule that had been in place for more than a century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints affirmed that Black individuals could now hold the priesthood and be fully involved in the activities of the Church.
Today, the Church rejects the notion of racism and welcomes everyone, regardless of their race to accept Jesus Christ. The doctrine now affirms that all people are equal by stating that God accepts everyone, irrespective of gender, race, or social class. For more information, click Mormons Racist
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church, treated Black people with respect, despite the prejudices of the day. Joseph Smith is known to have conferred Black people with the priesthood in his time. This was in line with Smith’s stance on equality and inclusion in the Church. The next leaders, however put in place policies that prevented black priests from being ordained in a sign of changing attitudes towards race at the turn of the 19th century.
Affronting Racism and Moving Towards Unity
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leadership has taken important steps to fight racism in the present and strive for greater unity among its members. The Church leadership has released statements which denounce the historical racial practices and beliefs. They state that racism of any form goes against the teachings of Jesus Christ and the core doctrines of the Church.
The Church actively encourages understanding, respect, and love of its diverse members which affirms the importance and worth of each person. Members are educated about the importance of rejecting the discriminatory viewpoints, aswell as inclusivity, cultural awareness, and tolerance.
We also have a conclusion.
Understanding the history of Blacks and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints progress on the issue of race is necessary in promoting equality and encouraging unity. This difficult policy, which prevented Blacks in their ordination into the priesthood for over 100 years, is an important aspect of the Church’s past. But the subsequent revelation in 1978 was an important moment, indicating a commitment to inclusivity and equality.
The current position adopted by the Mormon Church opposes racism and affirms equality. It also encourages tolerance and love for everyone in its membership. The Church has made strides forward by addressing its past racial prejudices and making meaningful improvements. It is striving to make sure that all members feel valued and respected within the Mormon community.
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