The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (often called simply as the Mormon Church) has a rich record of race relations. This is particularly relevant to Blacks within Mormonism. This article will provide an objective and factual analysis of the history of treatment for Black individuals within the Mormon Church as well as the policies and restrictions enforced and how the Church has evolved to disavow the past practices and beliefs related to racism.
Blacks and Mormonism A Historical Review
Between 1852 and 1978 between 1852 and 1978, the Mormon Church was able to enforce a rule that restricted blacks in Mormonism from priesthood ordination. This policy was the result of racial and religious beliefs at the time. Blacks were not permitted to take part in certain rituals or responsibilities of the Church. This resulted in segregation within the Mormon community. It is vital to acknowledge that this discriminatory practice was not exclusive to Mormonism. In fact, it was a reflection of racial prejudices that were commonplace in American culture 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 what Mormons considered to be a “divine revelation” concerning the exclusion of blacks from the priesthood. This revelation was a major change in Church’s policy, which had been in force for over a century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints made it clear that blacks could now be priests and participate in every aspect of the Church’s life.
The Church’s stance today rejects racism, and is aiming at unification and welcoming all people regardless of race, gender, or background, to believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The doctrine now affirms the equality of all individuals, emphasizing that God accepts everyone, irrespective of gender, race, or social class.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
In spite of the racial prejudices of his time the founder of Mormonism, Joseph Smith, demonstrated fairly equitable treatment for Black individuals. Joseph Smith is known to have been the first to appoint Black people to the priesthood during his time. This was a practice that was in accordance with Smith’s teachings on equality and inclusion within the Church. However, the next leadership, implemented policies that restricted 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 moving towards a united front
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 disavowing old racial prejudices and practices. They stress that racism, in any form, is against the teachings and fundamental doctrines of the Church. For more information, click Mormons Racist
The Church is actively promoting the values of love, understanding, and acceptance among its diverse community, recognizing the worth and importance of every individual. It is a priority to teach members about the importance of inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, and the abolition of the discriminatory beliefs.
Conclusion
Knowing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saintsand its evolution in dealing with racial differences and the past of Blacks within Mormonism is essential to promote unity and equality. The restriction of Blacks from priesthood ordination for over a century reflects a painful period in the history of the Church. The revelations of this policy proved to be a turning-point, indicating the Church’s commitment to inclusion.
The current stance of the Mormon Church rejects racism, promotes equality and stands for acceptance and love among the members of the Church. The Church has actively moved forward by addressing its past discrimination against race and making significant advancements. It is working to ensure all members feel valued and valued in the Mormon community.