The history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints frequently called the Mormon Church, holds a intricate story regarding race relations, particularly regarding Blacks in Mormonism. This article gives an objective, factual look at the treatment of African-Americans within the Mormon Church. It discusses the policies and practices that were put in place and the way in which the Church changed to reject old beliefs and practices relating to racism.
Blacks in Mormonism: A Historical Overview
Between 1852 and 1978, the Mormon Church adopted a policy which prohibited blacks within Mormonism from priesthood as well as ordination. The reason for this was the scriptures that were being interpreted in the era and attitudes towards race of the time. Black people were not allowed to participate in certain rites and responsibilities within the Church, leading to an experience of segregation within the Mormon community. This discriminatory behavior wasn’t exclusive to Mormonism. It was a reflection of the widespread prejudices based on race in American society at that time.
Mormon Black People and the 1978 Revelation
A significant turning point occurred in 1978, when the President of the Church, Spencer W. Kimball received what Mormons believe to be a divine guidance concerning the exclusion of Black individuals from the priesthood. The revelation was an event that changed the Church’s policy, which was in place for over one century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints declared that Black people were able to now claim the priesthood and fully participate in all facets of the Church.
The Church’s current stance rejects racist notions, striving for peace and welcoming everyone regardless of race background to embrace the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The doctrine of today asserts that all people are equal and affirms God’s unconditional acceptance of anyone, regardless of race or gender, social status or other aspects.
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Despite the racial prejudices of the time the founder of Mormonism, Joseph Smith, demonstrated fairly fair treatment for Black individuals. Joseph Smith may have ordained Black men to the Priesthood during his lifetime, as per historical records. This practice was consistent with Smith’s teachings about equality and inclusion in the Church. However, the leaders who followed implemented policies restricting Black individuals from the priesthood, reflecting the evolving social attitudes towards race during the late 19th century.
Racism: Addressing it and advancing towards unity
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leaders have implemented significant steps to address racism and to promote unity among its members. The Church leadership has released statements in which they denounce historical racial practices and beliefs. They stress that racism in any form is contrary to the doctrines of Jesus Christ and the core doctrines of the Church.
The Church is actively promoting acceptance, love and respect among its many members, recognizing their importance and worth. The Church strives to inform its members about the importance of cultural sensitivity and inclusiveness.
Conclusion
Understanding the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saintsthe evolution of dealing with racial differences and the past of Blacks within Mormonism is vital to promoting unity and equality. The Church’s past of pain is apparent in a doctrine that for over a century prohibited Blacks from being ordained to the priesthood. In 1978, the revelations concerning this policy were an end of the road, signalling an openness to all.
The current position of the Mormon Church is to reject racism, defend equality, and promote acceptance and love within its members. By confronting the past’s prejudices in the face of race, and implementing steps to move forward in this direction, the Mormon Church is moving in a direction of harmony and understanding.