The past of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints commonly called the Mormon Church, holds a complex narrative concerning race relations, especially with regards to Blacks in Mormonism. This article offers an honest, objective review of the treatment given to African-Americans within the Mormon Church. The article outlines the policies and practices that were put in place and how the Church developed to dispel past beliefs and practices related to race.
Blacks are part of Mormonism – A Historical Overview
From 1852 to 1978, from 1852 to 1978, the Mormon Church imposed a policy that banned blacks in Mormonism from being ordained priests. The reason for this was based on interpretations of scripture and religious beliefs that were prevalent at the time. Black people were not permitted certain Church rites and duties that led to a secluded Mormon community. It is essential to understand that this discriminatory act wasn’t solely related to Mormonism. It reflected racial biases that were prevalent in American culture in the period.
The Mormon Black Peoples and the 1978 Revelation
In 1978, Spencer W. Kimball received what Mormons believe to be a divine revelation regarding the exclusion of blacks from priesthood. This revelation was seen as an important event that reaffirmed an old policy that had been in effect for more than a century. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has confirmed that Black people can now hold the priesthood and be fully involved with all aspects of the church.
Today, the Church rejects racism and welcomes all people, regardless their race, to embrace Jesus Christ. The doctrine of equality is for all and stresses that God will accept anyone regardless of race, gender, or the status of their social life. For more information, click Mormons and Black People
Joseph Smith’s Fair Treatment of Black Individuals
Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon Church, treated Black people with respect, despite the prejudices prevalent at the time. Joseph Smith is known to have ordained Blacks into the priesthood during his lifetime. Smith’s beliefs about equality and inclusion in the Church was reflected in the practice. But, the next leaders introduced policies excluding Black people from priesthood, which reflected the changing society’s attitudes towards race in the middle of the 19th century.
Suppriming Racism and moving Towards Unity
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leadership has taken important steps to fight discrimination in the current and to promote unity among its members. The Church leadership has released statements that disavow past racial practices and beliefs. They say that discrimination against race regardless of form is in violation of the Church’s teachings and core doctrines the Church.
The Church aims to promote respect, understanding and compassion of its diverse congregation. It recognizes the importance and value of each individual. Members are educated about significance and importance of avoiding the discriminatory viewpoints, aswell inclusion, cultural awareness, and sensitivity.
Conclusion
Understanding the story of Blacks and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints changes in the issue of race is necessary for promoting equality and fostering unity. The Church’s history of trauma is evident in a rule which for a long time excluded Blacks from ordination to priesthood. The disclosures about the policy were a turning point in the Church’s commitment to inclusivity and equality.
The current position of the Mormon Church opposes racism and promotes equality. It also advocates tolerance and love for all its members. The Church has made strides forward by addressing its past racial prejudices and making meaningful improvements. It strives to ensure that all members feel welcome and respected in the Mormon community.