The history 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 within Mormonism. This article offers an honest, objective review of the treatment given to Blacks in the Mormon Church. It discusses the policies and practices that were put in place and how the Church evolved to denounce the practices and beliefs that were previously linked to racism.
Blacks and Mormonism A Historical Overview
From 1852 until 1978, between 1852 and 1978, Mormon Church implemented a policy that barred blacks from becoming priests. This decision was a consequence of religious and racial beliefs during the time. Black people were denied certain rituals and responsibilities in the Church, resulting in discrimination in the Mormon community. This discriminatory practice wasn’t unique to Mormonism. It was a reflection of the widespread racial prejudices in American society at that time.
Mormon Black People and 1978 Revelation
In 1978, Spencer W. Kimball was given a revelation which Mormons believe to be divine regarding the exclusion from the priesthood for Black people. The revelation was a major change in Church’s policy that had been in force for more than a century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has established that Black people can now hold the priesthood, and take part in all aspects of the Church.
Today, the Church is against racism, and welcomes all people, regardless of their race, to accept Jesus Christ. The doctrine of equality is for all and stresses that God is open to all, regardless of race, gender, or social status. For more information, click Mormons and Black People
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Despite the prejudices against racial minorities of his time the Mormon Church’s founder, Joseph Smith, demonstrated fairly fair treatment for Black individuals. Joseph Smith may have ordained Black men to the priesthood during his lifetime, according to documents from the past. Smith’s beliefs about inclusion and equality within the Church were reflected in this practice. But, the next leaders implemented policies restricting Black individuals from the priesthood, a reflection of the changing social attitudes towards race during the middle of the 19th century.
Racism and Unity: How to Address it
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is taking major measures in recent times to combat racism and foster unity among its members. The Church has issued statements that denounce past racial beliefs. The Church’s leadership issued statements that disavow past racist beliefs and practices.
The Church encourages love, understanding and acceptance within its diverse community. It affirms the worth and worth of each person. The Church strives to educate its members on the significance of cultural sensitivity and acceptance.
Conclusion
Knowing the background of Blacks in Mormonism and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints’ evolution in addressing racial issues is crucial in fostering unity and encouraging equality. The policy that restricted Blacks from priesthood ordination for over 100 years marks a difficult time in the history of the Church. The subsequent revelation in 1978 was an important turning point, signalling the Church’s commitment to inclusion and equality.
The current position of the Mormon Church rejects racism, affirms equality, and advocates for acceptance and love among all its members. By addressing historical biases in the face of race, and implementing steps to move forward in this direction, the Mormon Church is moving forward towards harmony and understanding.