Are blacks allowed in the Mormon Church?
The question of whether or not blacks are allowed in the Mormon Church has been a topic of much discussion and controversy over the years. As with many religious institutions, the Mormon Church has had its fair share of challenges when it comes to racial inclusivity. In this article, we will explore the history and current stance of the Mormon Church regarding the inclusion of black members.
The early history of the Mormon Church provides a complex backdrop to the question of black membership. When the Church was founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith, the Church was open to all who believed in its teachings. However, as the Church grew, it faced numerous challenges, including discrimination against black members. In 1849, the Church introduced a policy known as the “Ban of 1849,” which prohibited black men from holding the priesthood or participating in temple ceremonies.
This policy was based on a revelation that Joseph Smith claimed to have received, which stated that God had commanded him to exclude black men from the priesthood. The revelation was later retracted, but the damage had been done, and the ban remained in place for nearly a century. During this time, many black Mormons were forced to leave the Church or face discrimination within their own communities.
In 1978, the ban was lifted following another revelation, which was accepted by the Church as authoritative. This revelation, known as the “Second Manifesto,” was announced by Church President Spencer W. Kimball and declared that all worthy male members could receive the priesthood. The lifting of the ban was a significant step toward racial inclusivity within the Mormon Church, but it was also a controversial decision that sparked both praise and criticism.
Since the lifting of the ban, the Mormon Church has made efforts to promote racial inclusivity and diversity. The Church has implemented various programs and initiatives aimed at reaching out to black members and addressing historical injustices. Despite these efforts, some black Mormons continue to face discrimination within the Church and in the broader Mormon community.
In conclusion, while the Mormon Church has lifted the ban on black priesthood holders, the question of whether or not blacks are allowed in the Mormon Church is a complex one. The Church has made strides toward racial inclusivity, but there is still much work to be done to ensure that all members, regardless of race, feel welcome and valued within the Mormon community.
