The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (often called as simply the Mormon Church) has a long and rich tradition of race relations. This is particularly relevant to Blacks in Mormonism. This article provides an objective, factual review of the treatment given to African-Americans within the Mormon Church. It explains the policies implemented and the way in which the Church changed to reject the practices and beliefs that were previously linked to racism.
Blacks and Mormonism – A Historical Review
Between 1851 and 1897 between 1852-1978, the Mormon Church had a rule that prohibited blacks from being ordained to the priesthood. The decision was based on the scriptures that were being interpreted in the era and beliefs about race at the time. Black people were not allowed certain Church rituals and obligations and resulted in a segregated Mormon community. This discriminatory behavior wasn’t exclusive to Mormonism. It was a reflection of the widespread prejudices against racial minorities in American society at the time.
The Mormon Black Peoples, the 1978 Revelation
In the year 1978, Spencer W. Kimball received a revelation in 1978 that Mormons believe to be divine in regard to the exclusion from the priesthood for Black people. This revelation marked an important turning point in the Church’s policy that was in place for over 100 years. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has declared that Black people are now able to hold the priesthood, and fully participate in every aspect of their church.
The Church today rejects discrimination against people of color, and invites everyone, regardless of their race, to believe in Jesus Christ. The doctrine of equality is for all and stresses that God is open to all, regardless of race, gender, or social class.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church, treated Black people with respect despite the prejudices that were prevalent at the time. Joseph Smith may have ordained Black men to the priesthood in his lifetime, as per the historical records. This was in line with Smith’s teachings about equality and inclusion within the Church. However, the subsequent leaders had policies in place that prohibited black priests from being ordained which reflected the changing attitudes toward race during the middle of the 19th century.
Racism is a problem that needs to be addressed and advancing towards unity
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is taking major actions in the present to fight racism and encourage unity within its members. The Church’s leadership has issued statements in which they denounce previous racial beliefs and practices. The Church’s leadership has issued statements disavowing the past racist beliefs and practices.
The Church encourages the values of understanding, love and acceptance among its diverse members. The Church affirms the worth and worth of every person. The Church strives to inform its members about the importance of cultural sensitivity as well as inclusiveness.
The article’s conclusion is:
Knowing the background 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 past of pain is evident in a rule that for more than a century prohibited Blacks from being ordained to the priesthood. The announcement of 1978 however, was a significant moment in the Church’s embrace of equality and inclusivity.
The current policy of the Mormon Church is to reject discrimination, promote equality, and promote acceptance and love within its members. The Church has been actively moving forward in addressing its previous discrimination against race and making significant advancements. It is striving to make sure that everyone feels valued and respected within the Mormon community.