The story of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, often called the Mormon Church, holds a multi-layered story about race relations, particularly regarding Blacks within Mormonism. This article will provide an in-depth look at how Black individuals were treated historically within the Mormon Church. We will examine the restrictions on policy that were imposed, as well as the Church’s gradual shift away from past beliefs and racist practices.
Blacks and Mormonism A Historical Review
From 1852 until 1978 between 1852 and 1978, Mormon Church imposed a policy that prohibited blacks in Mormonism from being ordained priests. The reason for this was based on the interpretations of scripture as well as the race-based beliefs at the time. Black individuals were excluded from certain rituals and obligations within the Church, resulting in an experience of segregation within the Mormon community. This discriminatory practice wasn’t unique to Mormonism. It was indicative of the prevalent racial prejudices that existed that existed in American society at that time.
Mormon Black Peoples, the 1978 Revelation
The year 1978 marked an important turning point in the Mormonism’s history. Spencer W. Kimball was the Church’s president at the time and had a “divine revelation” regarding the exclusion from the priesthood for Black people. The revelation was considered to be the turning point that lifted the policy that was in place for over a century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has declared that Black individuals could now hold the priesthood and be fully involved in the activities of the Church.
The Church today rejects the racism of some ideologies while also encouraging the unity of all people and encouraging everyone to be a part of Jesus Christ, regardless of race. The doctrine of equality is for all and stresses that God will accept anyone regardless of race, gender, or social status. 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 during his lifetime. This practice was consistent with Smith’s teachings of equality and inclusion in the Church. The Church’s leaders who embraced Smith’s guidelines imposed policies which barred people of color from the priesthood. This was a reflection of the shifting attitudes of society toward race during the 19th century.
Addressing Racism and Moving Towards Unity
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is taking major measures in recent times to fight racism and encourage unity among its members. The Church’s leadership has issued statements discrediting old racial prejudices and practices. They insist that racism in any form goes against the doctrines of Jesus Christ and the core doctrines of the Church.
The Church actively promotes acceptance, love and understanding among its diverse members, affirming their value and worth. The Church is working to educate members on the importance of inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and the abolition of discriminatory beliefs.
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Knowing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saintstheir evolution in dealing with issues of race and the past of Blacks within Mormonism is crucial to building unity. The restriction of Blacks from priesthood ordinations for more than 100 years is a painful period in the history of the Church. The disclosures about the policy marked a pivotal moment that signaled a commitment towards equality and inclusion.
The current stance of the Mormon Church rejects racism, defends equality, and advocates for the love and acceptance of the members of the Church. By addressing historical biases against race and implementing steps in the direction of progress, the Mormon Church is moving towards a greater acceptance and understanding.