Embracing Inclusivity- The Mormon Church’s Open Doors for Black Members

Are black people allowed in the Mormon Church?

The question of whether black people are allowed in the Mormon Church has been a topic of discussion and controversy for many years. Despite the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) having made significant strides in promoting inclusivity and equality, this question still lingers in the minds of many. In this article, we will explore the history of the LDS Church’s stance on the inclusion of black people and the changes that have been made over time.

The LDS Church was founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith, who claimed to have been visited by God and Jesus Christ. Initially, the church’s membership was predominantly white, and there were no restrictions on the admission of black people. However, in 1852, Brigham Young, the second president of the church, issued the “Word of Wisdom,” which prohibited black people from holding the priesthood or entering the temple.

This policy, known as the “Ban,” was based on a revelation that Young claimed he received from God. The revelation stated that black people were cursed because of their transgressions in the pre-mortal existence. This policy was in place for nearly a century and was a source of discrimination and exclusion for black members of the church.

In 1978, under the presidency of Spencer W. Kimball, the LDS Church lifted the ban on black people holding the priesthood. This was a significant moment in the church’s history, as it marked the end of a discriminatory policy that had caused much pain and suffering. The revelation given to Kimball explained that the previous revelation was a mistake and that the ban was no longer necessary.

Since the lifting of the ban, the LDS Church has made efforts to promote inclusivity and equality among its members. The church has published materials and resources to help members understand the history of the ban and to encourage them to embrace the principles of love and acceptance. The church has also made efforts to reach out to the black community and to address any lingering issues of discrimination.

Despite these efforts, the question of whether black people are allowed in the Mormon Church still remains for some. Some individuals and groups have expressed concerns about the church’s past policies and the lingering effects of discrimination. However, the LDS Church has made it clear that all people are welcome to join the church and to participate in its teachings and activities.

In conclusion, the answer to the question “Are black people allowed in the Mormon Church?” is a resounding yes. The LDS Church has made significant strides in promoting inclusivity and equality, and the lifting of the ban on black people holding the priesthood is a testament to the church’s commitment to embracing all people. While the past may have been a source of discrimination and exclusion, the future of the LDS Church is one of inclusivity and acceptance for all.