That's when we stopped. We started off giving the priesthood to all, then we had some issues with members of the black race and racists in our own church (anyone was free to join) and so policy was to not give priesthood to descendants of Cain.
Fast forward to the 60s and God commanded us to build a temple in Brazil. Turns out a lot of white people had African ancestors, so we had to suspend their priesthood. Never at any time was it an issue of skin color but of descent. So we had stake presidents being released and their office and ordination suspended who were whiter than me. (Stake president is like a leader of a diocese -- thousands of members.)
And we always taught that ALL mankind would be saved by Christ. We debated whether God would command us to ordain them before or after the Second Coming.
Indeed, we recognize more than one prophet called by God in Africa during this time.
1978 was when President Kimball received the revelation that ALL worthy males should be ordained. The church unanimously adopted that policy.
The history and beliefs are fascinating to say the least. Even during the ban, we chased out the KKK from Utah and Idaho in its heyday.
Wasn't even that long ago. Mormons racially discriminated against blacks in 1978.
That's when we stopped. We started off giving the priesthood to all, then we had some issues with members of the black race and racists in our own church (anyone was free to join) and so policy was to not give priesthood to descendants of Cain.
Fast forward to the 60s and God commanded us to build a temple in Brazil. Turns out a lot of white people had African ancestors, so we had to suspend their priesthood. Never at any time was it an issue of skin color but of descent. So we had stake presidents being released and their office and ordination suspended who were whiter than me. (Stake president is like a leader of a diocese -- thousands of members.)
And we always taught that ALL mankind would be saved by Christ. We debated whether God would command us to ordain them before or after the Second Coming.
Indeed, we recognize more than one prophet called by God in Africa during this time.
1978 was when President Kimball received the revelation that ALL worthy males should be ordained. The church unanimously adopted that policy.
The history and beliefs are fascinating to say the least. Even during the ban, we chased out the KKK from Utah and Idaho in its heyday.
Enjoyed your comment. I am no longer in the church, but this background was fascinating, especially as one who served in Rio.
If you ever get a chance, sit down with a black member who has lived through this. They will give you the unedited version of events.
Cool history, bro. Do you know the year mormons started supporting DACA?