The background of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints which is often referred to as the Mormon Church, holds a complex narrative concerning race relations, especially with regards to Blacks in Mormonism. This article is designed to offer an honest and objective analysis of the treatment that was historically given to Black people within the Mormon Church in addition to examining the policy restrictions that were applied and how the Church has evolved to disavow past beliefs and practices that were deemed racist.
Blacks are part of Mormonism – Historical Overview
Between 1852 and 1978, between 1852 and 1978, Mormon Church implemented a policy that prohibited blacks within Mormonism from priesthood ordination. The underlying reason for this was the interpretations of scriptures as well as popular racial beliefs of the day. Blacks were not allowed to take part in certain rites or perform certain duties in the Church. This led to discrimination in the Mormon community. It is important to recognize that this discriminatory act wasn’t solely related to Mormonism. Instead, it was a reflection of racial prejudices that were widespread in American culture in the period.
Mormon Black Peoples, the 1978 Revelation
A major turning point took place in 1978 when then President of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball received what Mormons believe was a revelation from God regarding the exclusion of Black individuals from priesthood. This revelation, believed to be an important moment, ended the ban that had been in place for over 100 years. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints affirmed that Black people could now be granted the priesthood and fully participate in all aspects of the Church.
The Church of today has a clear stance against racist ideologies, while promoting unity and inviting everyone to embrace Jesus Christ, regardless of race. The doctrine today affirms the equality of all individuals and emphasizes that God loves everyone, regardless of race, gender or social class.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, founder of the Mormon Church despite the racial prejudices at his time was fair and tolerant treatment towards Black people. Joseph Smith is known to have appointed Blacks to the priesthood in his lifetime. This practice was consistent with Smith’s teachings about equality and inclusion in the Church. The clergy who embraced Smith’s guidelines imposed policies which barred African-Americans from the priesthood. This reflected the shifting attitudes towards race in society at the turn of the 19th century. For more information, click Mormon Black People
Addressing Racism and Moving Towards Unity
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leaders have taken important steps to fight racism and work for unity between its members. The Church’s leadership has released statements denying the past practices and beliefs of racial discrimination. The church’s leadership has released statements condemning past racial beliefs and practices.
The Church actively encourages understanding, acceptance, and love among its diverse membership in a way that affirms the value and worth of every individual. The Church is working to educate members about the importance of inclusiveness, cultural sensitivity, and to reject discriminatory beliefs.
The article’s conclusion is:
Knowing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saintsthe evolution of the face of racial discrimination and the history of Blacks within Mormonism is crucial to building unity. The Church’s history of trauma can be seen in a law that for more than a century was a barrier to Blacks from ordination to the priesthood. But the subsequent revelation in 1978 marked an important turning point, signalling an intention to promote inclusivity and equality.
The current position of the Mormon Church opposes racism and affirms equality. It also encourages unconditional love and respect for all its members. In addressing the prejudices of history against race, and taking steps in the direction of progress in this direction, the Mormon Church is moving in a direction of acceptance and understanding.
