As a black member I’ve struggled with this a lot and I’m so happy to hear this. I realized that I need to move forward don’t dwell on the past because that was a different time this is now and god loves us all the same. Hear him.
Such a wonderful comment. I've had so many people of your race help me. And my parents reached out to help those of your race, plus others as well. I'm 78, so you can see that this has gone way back. So sad the media doesn't talk about those with these special feelings for all the different races and cultures. When I hear of negative things involving these issues from the past, I remind Satan he hasn't got a future. We can do this! All will be well. God bless.
When I was a little girl in the 60s I heard at church that black people couldn't have the Priesthood I asked my dad. He said that they couldn't right now but they will some day and we need to pray for that. So I prayed because I thought it was so sad. I looked forward to that day and I would pray about it throughout my growing up. I admired all the black members because Ifelt they had so much faith. They were heros. I was a freshman in HS in CA when the announcement came. I was so excited and thought I'd burst with happiness. As I listened to Pres. Kimballs words I felt a great burden just wash away. Not a metaphorical burden but an actual burden that washed over me and made me so much lighter. It was one of the highlights of my life to know that all my brothers and sisters could partake of the fulness of Heavenly Father's blessings.
The question still remains. Why did it take so long. There is no good answer except the truth. The past leadership were racist. The current leadership likely isn't. But it also means some real haters ran the church back then and isn't the prophet supposed to be capable of divining with god? Idk. I grew up LDS, I live in Utah where it's everywhere. I still get pissed when people are wrong about Mormons (things like thinking they still practice polygamy, which they dont... not On earth anyway)
I’m white and I struggled with this for years. I nearly left the church over it. That all ended when I swallowed my pride called a black brother in the church to get his perspective. I called him. I felt the spirit. I never questioned it again. This man would later go on to be my bishop.
I've struggled with this as well and the only thing I can come up with is the culture of the church was racist. It was never doctrinal. Thankfully we can repent. I appreciate your sharing your resolution of the problem. It helps me in my struggle. Thanks again.
Same here, Matthew. I have a difficult time singing "Follow the Prophet and you won't go astray." We must ALWAYS pray over what comes down to us from leaders. A more recent example was the "exclusion policy." I never felt it was right, and I was very relieved when Pres. Nelson rescinded it. Another example of "church culture."
@@lindamcfadden57 “man interprets the will of God to the best of his ability.” The prophets are still men, with a natural man (carnal body). We cannot expect our prophet to be perfect, only Christ was. This is why we have a personal relationship with God. Love you brothers and sisters 🙏
@@rebeccaknudsen6190 Hi Rebecca, an honest question. If the church and priesthood was restored (this is the reason Joseph received the first vision) then the priesthood would have been perfect from the beginning. If it was truely restored, shouldnt it have have been correct from the beginning?
I was actually wondering about its history two days ago. I did some research and found what I needed. I know he answers our prayers. The questions made my faith grow stronger, and so has this message
I can understand this completely. I had a hard time understanding this when I was taking the discussions and finally realized we do not understand God's plan always. Why he places restrictions on certain things is not always clear or clear at all. In the Bible, of all the tribes of Israel, only the Levites could have the Priesthood. One could ask was he being racist and the answer is no. We have to remember God's ways are not our ways and we need to always have faith to move forward. This young man gets it! I am currently going through a very difficult situation and have always asked for God's protection and I could have the attitude that he didn't protect me. Well, I don't always understand his ways and have to have the faith to move forward and TRUST HIM! God bless this young man.
That's the first time I've gotten emotional from one of these videos. He hears us, he knows us, when we pray believing in him and with faith that our prayers will be answered, he does! Knowing this we can easier accept that what he did in the past was just and for a reason, regardless of what it was.
The look in his eyes when he speaks of hearing our Heavenly Father’s voice…it absolutely melted me. He radiates all that is good. My eyes started sweating too. Seeing members’ of this amazing and true church speak with such conviction and sincerity is so uplifting to hear. It was just a few minutes of his time, but it gave me a lift I really need right now. He touched my heart ♥️
I served my mission in the amazing state of Georgia. My love for my people there is limitless. We taught and baptized brethren with African American backgrounds. The challenge of answering the question of the Church's history in regards to Blacks and the Priesthood was almost more than I could bear. I knew so little. I ached that I did not know what to say. I ached that I did not know the reasons for this ban during that time. It was the source of great frustration and seemed to shut the doors on my brothers who were very sincere in wanting to join the church if it weren't for that. Just as it challenged their testimony it challenged mine. But I went on the idea that there must be things I don't understand. Then many years later the questions found answers and that struggle only served to strengthen my faith. Jane Manning James. Wow. This woman's faith in the face of difficult racial issues inspired me, and inspires me today. I love her and can not wait to meet her. I am a white man from a small town in Utah who knew nothing about racial issues in the South until I got there. God bless this young man for paying the price to know the only thing that matters.
I have been faced with similar situations over the years. It’s hard when your don’t know what to say and I don’t want to speculate. I don’t understand it. I haven’t found clear answers as you have. But, I have complete faith that someday I will get the answers for the questions in my heart. I do wish it were addressed more clearly. I put it on a shelf and know God loves all of His children with out exception. Maybe someday I’ll get the answers, maybe I won’t but in His time and in His way. I continue to trust.
Danor! What's up man! Appreciate your testimony! For some reason I've been fortunate not to struggle with this topic as a convert. Maybe that is due to God's grace on me or im just lucky 🤷🏿♂️ but the struggle is real for others. I honestly get it. I always tell myself God and Jesus Christ are real and I've had personal testimony of them to know that all will be answered in due time and to trust the plan of salvation. That is the key. Once we know God and his son Jesus Christ and have that witness, nothing in the past matters (as hard or horrible things may been). This life on earth is temporary and we are passing through for such a short time! Focus on things and principles that matter now, that will get us where we want to be in the eternities. #ChurchIsTrue But here is my opinion. 🤫 the world wasn't ready for it. Look how blacks were treated with slavery, segration etc...if the church allowed blacks to have the priesthood in very beginning I feel there would have been very harsh persecutions (worst than what we have read about back in those days today). The Lords work would have been frustrated. Big events and freedoms had to happen first (Civil rights movement, law changes etc...) to keep gospel moving forward. I feel it would have been such horrible timing due to the pride of carnal men. Anyways just my 2 cents.
Thank you for sharing your insight Mr.300C, brother. As a white woman of pioneer background, I wondered for years about this too. Over the years with study and patience and occasional asking, I gradually came to feel just like you feel. God loves His children and could see things we can't see, and knows how low and depraved and cruel many of His children can and have been and likely would have been both toward early church members, white and black. We'll get the full picture at some point. Meanwhile, I agree with you and I always loved and admired all of the faithful black members of the church before the revelation on the priesthood and since!
I've never thought about it in this way, thanks for sharing that! Being an African descendant made me always think much more about this topic than my friends in the Church. I believe that in the future we will be able to fully understand the purpose of God in all this, but your words give us more direction. Thanks again!
I have always felt this way. I’m grateful for all who have stood strong and trusted in the Lord and His timing. Thank you for sharing and being a strength to others.
That’s a very interesting perspective. I appreciate you taking the time to share it. And I believe you’re right… all things have a timing and purpose as it says in scripture. God bless!
I have also heard His voice. I was feeling very depressed and down on myself, and I felt the impression to pray. So I did, and during my prayer, I asked for forgiveness for being a failure. I hadn't even finished my sentence when I heard a voice, very quiet and small, but very clearly say "You're not a failure." I immediately teared up. It filled me with peace and I know I felt his Love that evening.
D&C 76 - Those who qualify for the celestial kingdom, do so by overcoming all things, by faith. It's interesting to think our biggest trials and mysteries here in mortality are what qualify us for the highest and holiest blessings in the life to come.
I like how Danor phrased it. “I don’t need justification for the past. All I want is a personal relationship.” There are other episodes within the church’s history that many might consider controversial, but things back then were very different than they are now. So that’s how I look at it. I don’t need justification for what happened back then to have a relationship with God now. Thank you, Danor!
As a Black member of the church, I cannot turn a blind eye to the fact the Priesthood ban started with Brigham Young, and the blessings that came with the same Priesthood were denied for over 100 years. It’s easy to say it’s all in the past, but another fact is a formal apology has never been issued to us by the church. Right now there are members of the church who actually believe that I shouldn’t hold the Priesthood, nor should I be able to enter a temple; and they are still in the church. There is a growing movement of Black people who are leaving the church because they feel we don’t have a seat at the table, and I have to be honest on saying I cannot ignore that fact either. History is meant to be learned from so past mistakes aren’t repeated.
I was praying tonight and thinking of your comment and the feeling came to share these passages; I hope they help. Lean onto faith and trust of what you know to be true, God’s love for his children and the truth of his gospel, before you let others lead you down dark paths and away from salvation Praying for you, my brother!
QUOTE: Right now there are members of the church who actually believe that I shouldn’t hold the Priesthood, nor should I be able to enter a temple; and they are still in the church. END QUOTE. Appalling! Sadly there is ignorance everywhere. I love diversity and want the perspective of all people. Blacks and all people of color have so much to offer to anyone, whites, myself. We can learn from each other. I wish you had a seat at my table and I at yours. Thank you for sharing a harsh truth.
I'm devastated to think that there may be church members with these attitudes. I have never heard anyone express that Blacks shouldn't hold the Priesthood or enter the temple, except one time a really old man said something along these lines in a Sunday School class I was teaching. I corrected him and told him that wasn't church doctrine and was very inappropriate. He died within a couple years of that. I'm sorry if you continue to experience bigotry. It probably would be helpful to let a bishop know if someone in their ward has these kinds of opinions so they could address incorrect doctrine with them directly. I understand there would be action taken if they had been corrected, and continued to express these incorrect teachings as doctrine.
I remember the day when the announcement was made that "priesthood blessings" were to be extended to "all worthy males". I was 16 and sitting in the chapel near my home in Durban, South Africa. Except for one man everyone in the all-white congregation raised their right hand to "sustain" the announcement. Some years later I returned to the land of my birth - England. Two years ago, after many, many years I was fortunate enough to visit the country that as a child I had come to call home and visited the same chapel where I first heard that announcement. This time though, my family were the only white people in a happily full chapel. I say 'happy', most of us were; except for one man in front of us, who looked around and muttered "Why are there white people here?". As you say Matt, History is meant to be learned from so past mistakes aren’t repeated. I hope we all find peace in our different turmoils.
I think a bigger question is: is it ok for others to need more than “the past was the past”? Are we going to enforce a value on them by saying, “well, you shouldn’t care so much about that”? Everyone has different needs in this Church and one person’s answer isn’t going to be for another. I hope we can find compassion for all of God’s children, even if they need more than the answer this video provides.
I don't think this video is an answer, it's a testimony. It's someone sharing how they felt the grace of God. Ultimately, the video is teaching you to face your concerns and pray, not to bury them. Some people are satisfied with this answer, others, like me, are not. However, the answers I've received through revelation satisfy me. I don't share those, cause again, the process of receiving the answers directly from God, is the answer. If that made any sense.
.it makes perfect sense - that GOD will show, tell, acknowledge, & answer each of His children uniquely & in such a way [that like Nathanael, alone under a fig tree] there can be no denying - when God speaks to you, you can't easily forget or deny...it is too amazing ...& HE gives to "all men (women&children) liberally, & upbraideth not"...i pray&wish for each of us for success in all things.
The answer to your question is, yes. It is definitely ok to need more than "the past was the past" -- I'm still strong in the faith, and I like to listen to other's testimonies with regard to this issue - I went to a fireside with Alex Boye that really affected me, and he only touched on this topic briefly. (Side note: Aside from his Uh-mazing voice, he is one of the kindest most genuine people you'll ever meet). -- but I don't think the Lord faults me for wanting more answers. I trust him to lead me to the truth line upon line as I'm ready to receive it.
I added a comment above. I don't have an answer - but I have maybe a perspective from a black member. I had heard him speak on this. He said that during that time, he thought of it as a protection from the Lord during that time. He said the world was barely prepared for accepting "Mormonism" OR color...and he said he thought of it like the Lord was waiting for safety before adding more persecution to members of color at a time when racial tensions were at their peak (Civil war to the 1970s). I thought - wow - that's actually a beautiful thought!! Did the Lord wait until after Martin Luther King, Jr and after Jim Crow laws were ended so these men wouldn't be further persecuted? (For those that weren't around in the 70s - people weren't friendly still to "Mormons" in many communities.. then add the outright racism and segregation that still existed beyond what we really know today.) When many members put today's eyes and perspective on the world that existed 50 years ago, it's difficult to bear. I'm not saying this is why... I'm saying that I'm grateful for revelation and that today all worthy men are able to hold the priesthood. ♥
I felt and feel the Spirit about your experience. I cried for a week when I read a book that told me that I must have sat the fence in heaven because of my skin color! I was a new member, about 16, and it hurt. I felt betrayed by God to give me a testimony of the Church's true nature as His kingdom on earth because I could not justify leaving it! My bishop told me it was false, but I could not understand why a Church leader would write it if there was no truth to it. He told me to then live my life in a way to show that I choose Him fully since I could not be dissuaded. Years later, I have a testimony of my worth to God. The priesthood ban was never the issue--a human error in my book. The knowledge that I chose Christ matters, and that I choose Him again! Section 76 of D&C teaches me Heavenly Father's endgame. No matter what happens on earth, no matter what Church leader does what, or Bishop does not, God wants me to be like Him and be with Him. He wants it for all of us willing to stay the course. I needed to feel the Spirit right now for other reasons, but this brought back God's answer to my prayers about the false doctrine of fence-sitting spirits. It brought back my first prayer after the missionaries found me. I asked God if He was really there. He said, "Yes." That was it. That word consumed me and still does. Though He has spoken to me many times through the Spirit since my first prayer to Him, that "Yes" touches me each time I think of it.
As a people, believers have long struggled with imperfection in our perception of "others." Consider the great Apostle Peter. We, as a people, should unite against any prejudice, especially in ourselves and where and when we see it in church or public spaces. We should learn from history and definitely not use it as an excuse to perpetuate exclusion, unkindness, hard heartedness The second greatest commandment is to love one another as Christ loved us. All are alike unto God. It must break our Savior's heart to hear the cries of those innocents, the "different." Thank you, Davon, for your beautiful testimony.
I love it. God has a pattern with everyone he loves. First…please listen, I’m going to tell you something really important. Then….you are offspring of deity… my son. Life changing
I could talk about history from the Old Testament and all the reasons why it was that way, but Joseph Smith was against slavery and FOR having people of African descent hold the priesthood. I’m sure that biases were hard to undo and it took till the 1960’s and people like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King to really emancipate the cause. This situation particularly troubled Spencer W. Kimball. He was the president who took it to the Lord in earnest prayer. I remember being shocked at the announcement in 1978, not because it now allowed persons of African descent to hold the priesthood, but because I had never known that they couldn’t before. I’m a woman and I don’t get ordained either, but can partake in all of the blessings. Love all my brothers! ❤️
More and more as I learn and experience, I am coming to understand the importance of agency. Why did this or that person choose to go this path? I do not know. What I do know is that our agency is prime, it is the most sacred thing to Heavenly Father and He will do nothing to mess with it. Neither will He act upon us, but He encourages us to act for ourselves. That tells me more and more of how much He loves us. We will not understand all in this life, but we shall know all in some future day. In the meantime, if we are faithful the veil will be lowered and we will understand little by little. How grateful I am for that promise
This so called belief is based on the so called curse of ham being cursed by seeing his father's nakedness it was cannon who was cursed not ham the so called father of the black was in fact cush not ham. This lie has been used to justify slavery and many horrible deeds the book of Mormon is fake the tablets have never been seen and Joseph Smith got the book from demons staring into a hat.
This .maybe true for individual revelation but not for the Church as a whole. I've been member for 17 years and I still experience the racism at gatherings, when holding callings (which I have resigned from because of the racism and pressure) and from individuals whom still feel that people of color do not belong in "their church". Also I am Indigenous and I was told to work in the Temple I had to cut my hair which is disgraceful and disrespectful in my culture. I did and was admonished in my family for doing so. My hair is back and my family relationship is well. So if this church is going to be inclusive then it needs to embrace and not change people from other cultures and not try to assimilate them to look and be like the clean cut missionaries. Embrace us as we have embraced the church...
Very true... we need to change the toxic church culture we have created... it clouds the true teachings, doctrine, and gospel of the Lord. Thank you for sharing this
My 8 year old gets so caught up in arguments and fights with my 3 year old. He doesn't realize that it is not important what a clueless 3yo thinks. Think to yourself, if a small child insulted you would it bother you in the least or make you chuckle? Try to realize that any racist members are just small clueless children. One day they will grow up and be at your level and they will see what you see. Start strong, Stay strong, my friend.
The gospel is true. The scriptures and the authority are true. But sadly the people are not. I am so sorry that you have been mistreated by those who you trusted and who should have treated you with unconditional love. I pray that you can find forgiveness for them and that you find your faith eventually renewed. I don't understand the past. I struggle with some of the things that come from our leaders, and how members treat each other. I know the Lord is not always pleased with his people.
Can you imagine your ancestors having been enslaved then embracing a religion that treats you worst than been enslaved, telling you that you are cursed and unworthy of a so called priesthood ?!? Now, can you imagine the daily mental gymnastics needed to convince you that this is the truth??!! Non Merci 🙏🏿
I LOVE THIS BROTHER AND HIS TESTIMONY!!! I FELT SO MUCH LOVE AFTER HE SAID WHAT GOD TOLD HIM!!! EVEN MY HEART GOT SQUISHED AND SOME WATERY EYES. THANKS!🖐❤
My favorite church video right now.❤️ I think a lot of us have unanswered questions and it can make us lose our way but when we truly focus on our personal relationship with God we stop questioning and start trusting and can truly feel the peace and love of God. He knows our struggles and He is there for us.❤️
A wonderful testimony and message. A good example for all of us to follow when we face issues with church history that may make us doubt the truthfulness of the Church.
I had that moment too when I first started really going through my crisis when I wondered what was wrong with me, why was something that seemed so much easier for other people so difficult for me. Why did I have to wait so long for a promised blessing and then just when I thought it was my time, it became a curse and a burden and I was denied the happiness I thought I would soon have. I also heard His voice reassuring me and wondered if I were imagining it. I felt Danor's testimony so strongly and it reminded me of how I felt in my moment of need. I'm still dealing with my trial but I feel so much stronger for having had to go through it and like this guy I don't need to understand everything to know that I'm going to be ok.
Thank-you for sharing your story. I appreciate it so much. I am a convert, and caucasian and I have struggled with that myself. Because I had been excluded from so many things as a child it felt like others were being excluded from some things in the church. As I continued to learn and understand more about God I began to understand that was a matter of timing for everything in our lives. And it is in God's time. God doesn't exclude anyone from anything. A few months after I was baptized that amazing announcement was made.
This is so exciting and fantastic. Puerto Ricans are of African decent along with Spanish and Taino. It was just the generation right before mine that was not able to have the priesthood. People outside the church couldn’t understand that people even with my color skin couldn’t have the priesthood. But I am so proud of those loyal Saint of the island of Puerto Rico who knew the church was true and that now are now waiting for out first temple.
Heavenly Father is a parent first,and he loves us all equally, he parents all his kids differently, and at that time,I always felt like he did this to strengthen his children, not to punish them! And once the priesthood was given, they were absolutely ready for it!🌍💜🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏼🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼👍
I think that the struggle of the early saints, being chased out every community and eventually pushed west was a test for them and their resolve to believe in the face of violence and death. The issue of black people being denied the priesthood until 1978 is probably equivalent to the pioneer story. This group of saints will have to struggle and have their faith tested in a seemingly unfair situation. At the end we know that God answers prayers and the Holy Ghost will help us find answers and peace. I wish their was a simple answer to this question but I'm afraid it's not simple at all.
Yah but uhhh what about celestial marriage? Don’t u kind of need the priesthood for that?? Oh and priesthood blessings, so they have to ask someone else to heal the sick? What if nobody else is around to assist? Sacrament? Gotta have white people there to administer? But god created us equal right?
The struggle with the early saints was from cruelty from people outside the church. With this issue, however, it was our church that excluded them and made it into an unfair situation for black people. Why can’t the church accept its mistake and apologize?
I met a black member of the Church on a mission that said when he saw the announcement of the change in church policy on the news that he felt moved by the spirit to find that church and he joined a few months later. Before meeting him I struggled with that for months. That amazing man helped me with that. I’m grateful for these amazing and humble people that can forgive when it is hard and spread love.
I was born in 1949 and grew up most of my childhood and youth in Georgia. I found the Gospel in 1967. All of that is just for perspective when I say I love you. There is nothing I would change about you and I thank you for sharing your testimony. I remember how excited we all were when the revelation was announced. We were on the phone to each other and so happy for our black brothers and sisters. I would love to just sit and talk with someone as special as you and share our journeys with each other.
Hi. Your testimony of the priesthood as a man of colour is exactly the way it should be. I am South African, converted when I was 19yrs old, born in 1964, mixed with black, white, and Indian, guess what... none of that matters. Infact you and I have been blessed with direct communication from Heavenly Father. Thats validation brother. How many have been blessed like that. God bless you. Lots love
Thank you. We may not know all the details of our questions. We can Hear Him and that witness from the Spirit has sustained me through all the trials that have come. Stay in the light.
I was troubled and asked God for Mercy and Forgiveness praying for almost a month and I hear a still small voice and the same thing is soft and clear and precise saying " Read the Book of Mormon " and after I finished the reading I felt ease and accepted the will of the Father in Heaven and wait for thy mercy into me.
This was truly moving to me. I feel like in my own life one of the things I have struggled with has always been understanding the WHY of things. But I feel like over this last year and a half almost 2 years now with what is going on worldwide. I’ve had my eyes opened to so many things and I realize that God has a time for everything, a reason behind everything, and that we are in a very large test right now as a society. For me I feel like I’m going to work hard on not asking WHY’s. And to just pray for strength in all things. To be able to withstand what is happening now and what will be.
Thank you for your touching testimony! It is so amazing when we hear the Lord! He speaks in very few words, and yet in very powerful way that we feel in in every part of our being. When we hear His answers, we cannot doubt because of the overwhelmingly soul encompassing way he speaks to us.
Sometimes we just don't get a solid answer or understanding. My answer to my questions about plural marriage was, "You know that I love you and that you are no less that anyone else!" I prayed for the faith and the patience to understand it later. And He gave me peace about it.
I am still currently struggling with this. Grew up in the church, baptized and confirmed 2004, went inactive at 18, and have been back now for a few months at age 30. Being adopted, thinking that while my father (who did not foresee having a black son I’m sure) was on his mission during a time that black people were not allowed the priesthood. I struggle with this because the church speaks so often, to this day, of missionary work. (I did not take the opportunity to serve mine unfortunately) To think of all the black people viewed as unworthy of the priesthood based on their genetics, and not allowed to serve missions, that is bizarre. The struggle is in the biggest part of our doctrine; a living prophet. Why would such a massive and impactful event take so long to ‘come down the pipe’ to Spencer W. kimball? I have been asking Heavenly Father to help me see this situation more clearly. I am looking in many places and have spoken with my ward elders, if anybody has actual insight into the doctrine or what happened, please feel free to let me know. I do seek these things respectfully,I’m not sure what I’m seeking, but unfortunately nothing has satisfied my questioning yet.
Hi Adam, thanks for your question. Latter-day Saint scripture and teachings affirm that God loves all of His children and makes salvation available to all. The Book of Mormon teaches that all are alike unto God: "(The Lord) inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile." (2 Nephi 26:33). Church leaders unequivocally condemn all racism in any form. You or others interested can learn more about the Church's beliefs at comeuntochrist.org?cid=42001274 .
This is so powerful. When he said God answered Yes My Son, I just felt the truth of those powerful words. I know it's true. Thank you brother for this testimony. Thank you.
I’m 83 years of age and a former Baptist minister. I found the restored Church 51 years ago while preaching a sermon, the Holy Spirit spoke to me to read the Book of Mormon. I did and took the discussions. Some years later while listening to Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream speech” the Holy Spirit spoke to me “Blacks will soon hold the priesthood” 4 months later it happened. What a wonderful relief “all worthy men can hold the priesthood.” I am Caucasian, reared in Georgia, I know that the Holy Spirit will guide us , if we will listen and hearken to Him. I love you brother, we are all God’s sons and daughters.
I'm so glad to hear such a lovely testimony about this and trusting God! Thank you for sharing!!!🙏💖 I want to add that the gospel is not as cryptic or uninformative as many people think. It's great to take things on trust, and sometimes that will be our only option, but God is so merciful that He has given us a lot of information and we can find answers to so many of our questions if we just search for them. I was wondering about this subject too at one point and so I did some research and I found on the church website that there actually were multiple black men in the early days of the church who were priesthood holders. At first, blacks were ordained just like every other faithful man. Brigham Young even said one them was one of their finest elders. Then suddenly God said not to give the priesthood to any more black men and never gave a reason why. But my own personal figuring was that it probably had to do with protecting our black members, both present and future (up to when all worthy men could receive the priesthood again), and the church as a whole. If you consider the history of the US at that time, it makes sense. And then when you consider the history of the 70s when blacks were able to receive the priesthood again, it was a safer time for them in our society. Again, this is just my own figuring about this, but knowing the nature of God and that He always has our best interest in mind, whatever His reason was, I know He had a caring purpose in mind. 💖 God doesn't always give us answers right away because He wants us to seek them out for ourselves. He wants us to take the opportunity to learn and grow from that search. Searching for truth makes you appreciate it so much more when you finally find it too, and it strengthens your faith in God when you can look back and see how He led you to it in the end. 💛
This video helped me so much. Lately I have been thinking about this topic and it’s been so hard for me to understand why God would not allow black people to hold the priesthood. This video truly was an answer to my prayers because it brought me peace. I admire this man’s faith through it all and I loved hearing how God spoke to him…it felt so intimate she reminded me that God cares about us individually.
This is just incredible! In time, “I did hear His voice,” he said. “It was the most beautiful, soft, amazing thing.” To verify what he heard, he asked again. “Yes, my son,” he heard in response.
thanks for giving me the opportunity to hear this story. I felt impressed to pay attention to the words, because I wanted to give attention to this young man who had felt something important, and in turn I felt something important too.
how important this is. this is a hard question to be asked. it's good to know that what I knew and how I responded was truly guidance from my Heavenly Father. I know all answers will not be revealed but understanding for that time in history there was a reason and a purpose. will there be more conversations about race and the church?
I struggled with that myself and I'm not black. I'm a convert, that is one of the things that was holding me back from joining, but then like this young man I got it. That was the past. I can't understand everything.
This is a perfect example of what it takes to remain a faithful member of the Church. Those who choose to leave, it is often the result of having based their testimonies on non-fundamental, often speculative, things, which is a sandy foundation. Also at play is that everyone wants self-worth, which can affect anyone in the Church for any number of reasons (sometimes as a result of struggling with repentance). What this brother did was come to know, and base his testimony, on 3 fundamental truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, namely that his true identity wasn't a worldly one, but 1) was as a son of God, 2) that God knew him personally, and 3) that God also loved him. He came to know his true self-worth, which can only come through Jesus Christ. These 3 fundamental truths surpassed the worldly concerns, not because everything is now completely understood, but because it put everything in the correct perspective and priority.
Beautiful, thank you. You are so precious, each child is so precious to God. I do not understand all of God's reasons for what happens in this life. I do know that "...all things work for our good" in this life. 💜
That was wonderful. Thank you to whoever shot and edited this video for drawing down the external sound (music) and allowing silence for a moment while he continued to share his feelings and thoughts.
You know, the issue of why black members couldn't hold the priesthood is incredibly nuanced. If it were possible to approach it without any emotional reaction, I think an answer would be attainable. There are so many sensitivities on every side that it makes it difficult to do that. There is an extreme hesitation to visit the realities of prejudice on all sides. It's hard for us to understand that even the best people are prejudice to a large degree. It's also hard for us to even approach the idea that almost all prejudice is rooted in real experience to a great degree. This is a self confirming cycle and you cannot just pretend like it doesn't exist and make decisions that way. God only knows what is best.
So basically we ignore pass sins..don't address or acknowledge them publicly no apology nothing. Just move on ..Did God make a mistake back then or was this his perfect plan to have black people persecuted but also treated less than in the church.. makes you question faith
My mother who grew up in Northern Ohio had just joined the church a year before the announcement to life the ban. She told me that when the announcement came over the pulpit via general conference that 2 white men upon hearing the announcement, stood up and left the church. Perhaps the Lord waited so long to life the ban because of deference to tradition and previous prophets, but also American white members were simply a product of their time and have racial issue that hadn't been overcome. Danor has a strong testimony of faith.
As a black member of the church I cannot believe that God had anything to do with placing the ban or waiting so long to lift it. Joseph Smith was vehemently against racism and slavery and there were black men who received the priesthood. That changed with Brigham Young who was a racist and a slave owner.
The gospel is perfect. The church is led by imperfect beings. The sad history is that some past church leaders have discriminated against certain races.
I love this because it echoes my same experiences wrestling to understand the history of race and the priesthood. I have felt the Savior's love for me and for all people, and I have received witnesses of the divine calling of His prophets. That feeling of His love and assurance is enough for me until the day when He shall reveal all things.
There used to be times when the gospel of salvation was only for the Jews. Was God unfair because of giving the gospel only for the Jews? Were the Jews unfair because of not allowing Samaritans in their temples and synagogues? The Jews received the law of not allowing someone that is not from the house of Israel to partake of the gospel. And so after awhile God allowed ALL of the people to hear the gospel of salvation, but the authority and ordinances were lost. Was God unfair because of not giving those people the chance to make all the ordinances needed for salvation? The thing is, when someone tries to blame the church for some kind of exclusion, they forget that God works in ways that we don't always understand at first, and we need to study in order to. We have to humble ourselves and watch God perform HIS justice, not ours. There may be differences in our place of growth, the color of our skin, our language, our economic standing, but all of those things are not an impediment to exercise our agency and gain more faith and knowledge of the ways of God.
I'm grateful to see/feel the Holy Spirit from this wonderful convert.❤ There are trolls all through this thread trying to stir up hate and discontent, but they have their reward. The master they serve will not uphold them at the last day.. But those who serve Jesus Christ will be succored and lifted UP at the last day🤍🕊 Praise God and HALLELUJAH 🎉💖
Powerful and spiritual video! Thank you for your testimony and example to others. I don't fully understand the Church's history but what matters is I can feel my Savior and Heavenly Father's love, comfort, and spirit and have a firm testimony of this Gospel and the Plan of Happiness 😉 all the other stuff doesn't matter much when you gain an eternal perspective.
I don't like it when people say " I don't see race/skin color". Of all physical differences between the races skin color is the least! There is hair texture, nose shape and lip thickness. And there is nothing wrong with that. We should not tip toe around our differences. They should be acknowledged and celebrated! I don't want anyone looking "BEYOND" my skin color/race. I want you to look AT my skin color (race) and accept me for who and what I am and I will do the same for you!
Danor thank you for sharing your experiences and powerful testimony. On Tuesday, this week, my son asked me about this exact topic. Why this happened in church history. God knows what each and everyone of us is going through and He answered a prayer through this video. Thank you ❤️
“I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.” - Doctrine and Covenants 64:10 “(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)” - 2 Corinthians 5:7
When I think about it, and ponder on the events that took place, i see the Lord was doing this in stages. I see it was never his intention to leave anyone out of the gospel blessings ♥️
NBA legend Thurl Bailey had such a wonderful insight on this. He relates a meeting he had with a church leader in Italy when the Spirit spoke to him. He never doubted again.
What a kind and definite reassurance of our Savior's love. Also, I appreciate the break at the end of the video to give a note of a trailer for a future video. So much less confusing.
God loves all of His Children... he doesn't care how much melanin you have in your skin... 1 Samuel 16:7 "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." The early saints made mistakes common to their generation... they were influenced by the prejudices of their day, even the leadership of the Church, unfortunately (they weren't perfect either). We need to hear God and follow his whisperings. The past isn't perfect, because we are not perfect, and we shouldn't judge past generations too harshly for their mistakes, because we probably would have acted similarly despite what we'd like to believe... but we can learn from the past... we can learn from their mistakes and move forward in the Lord's way.
The previous generations have gone on to their glories and received their forgiveness. We cannot let the past hold us hostage, but if we can examine the past without prejudice, we have great treasures to discover! We have to connect with our kindred dead in meaningful ways, not judgemental ones.
The early saints made common mistakes? Actually it was the church Prophets, Seers and Revelators'' declared doctrine for 3 generations that Blacks were not worthy/less valient. Yet no apology, zero accountability.
Is it true that black families couldn’t get sealed in the Temple for more than hundred years since the gospel was restored ? That it wasn’t just Black Males not getting the priesthood but the ban affected whole families not getting sealed. Is this true ? I heard this from a Black member friend and trying to get a straight answer but everyone I asked doesn’t know or is not sure. Thanks
Here is a straight answer. As it turns out, it was only a delay. God alone knows all the real reasons for it all. But we also know that some peoples have been banned from blessings by the Lord over the centuries for various reasons, some known and some unknown. It's in the Bible! Following are examples. Initially, God wanted all Israel to become a kingdom of priests to him (Exodus 19:6). But then Israel really, really screwed up by not obeying the Gospel when presented to them (Hebrews 4:2). So they were given the Law of Moses (Galatians 3:8, 23-25), and the priesthood was taken from them, and a new priesthood was created for a specific line of Aaron, the brother of Moses. All the rest of Israel (with few exceptions) were banned from holding priesthood for generations. We know from the Bible, too, that the nations of Moab and Ammon were forbidden to enter the congregation of the Lord, thus being banned from the blessings of being a member, for more than ten generations! (See Deuteronomy 23:4-5; Nehemiah 13:1-3.) And, we also have recorded two instances of the Holy Ghost actually forbidding Paul and Barnabas from preaching the Gospel to people in Asia! (See Acts 16:6-7.) If God truly is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8), why is this so major a problem when something similar to the above happened in our own day, even though we don't know fully the reasons for it? That all said, in this Church we have ordinances for the dead (baptism, confirmation, priesthood ordination, initiatories, endowments, and sealing of families). While they could be baptized and confirmed (and some few ordained but not the rest), none of the rest of the ordinances and blessings truly were lost to any of those who were delayed while in life.
A confirmation from the Spirit that you are a child of God and you are loved is priceless ❤️ when I was a teenager I had such an instance when I was at EFY and we were reading "The Living Christ". Seemingly out of nowhere I heard a voice in my head that simply said "I love you." And somehow I immediately knew it was Christ speaking to me. I can't ever deny that. It helps me hold on in tough times. Thank you so much for sharing your testimony. I know it will bless many others.
When we understand the true nature of God, that He is our Father and how much He loves us, we will understand that anything He commands is for our good. Even if we don't know all the reasons, we will have peace as long as we know this. God loves us all equally and everything He does is for our good. 💖
This would have meant nothing to me if I had not become a father myself. He desperately wants us to come home. Now I have a greater love for EVERYONE because I know heavenly father loves the man in this video as I love my children, each in a special and individual way.
Poor man, on one hand I feel sorry for him, he has to come up with ridiculous excuses, which are literally like science fiction to justify over a hundred years of pure racism in your cult. And also generally it's just fascinating how people can believe in such fairy tales and science fiction. Anyone who is the least bit educated and knows history should just laugh at the entire philosophy of this cult. As Christ said "many false prophets will come..."
Such a great testimony, I felt the spirit In what you said , thanks so much for sharing this , I love you my brother and I'm so happy for your determination in seeking out our heavenly father with a sincere heart , keep up the great works my faithful friend .
I love your Faith you are awesome! you made me cry!! you just told me what to do to solve my doubts . Thank you, brother!! you are perfect the way you are I don't know you in person but believe me , you just touch my heart to the other way of the world.
This is such a beautiful testimony! Thank you for sharing it. I've thought the same thing over the years when I've received personal revelation: Was that my imagination? But no. It was from the Lord. This is not an easy issue for many of us, white members included. It's still troubling, and I'm glad you've been able to receive an answer from the Lord.
Thank you for your testimony and sharing your personal experience that you had with God regarding this. It makes me feel loved and accepted too. I also feel the same about the priesthood as you.
I wasn't born yet in that time ,but as a child of record while I was growing up in the church and I came across that story it first shocked me and had so many questions about that but whene I started to learn the reasons or the " WHY's' behind that decision my trust in him has increased , and I know he does everythings according on his due times and we have to trust him always ,today we are greatful that we all have his authority now ♥
As a black member I’ve struggled with this a lot and I’m so happy to hear this. I realized that I need to move forward don’t dwell on the past because that was a different time this is now and god loves us all the same. Hear him.
I admire your faith, it is inspiring!
We love you!
Such a wonderful comment. I've had so many people of your race help me. And my parents reached out to help those of your race, plus others as well. I'm 78, so you can see that this has gone way back. So sad the media doesn't talk about those with these special feelings for all the different races and cultures. When I hear of negative things involving these issues from the past, I remind Satan he hasn't got a future. We can do this! All will be well. God bless.
What a wonderful lesson to learn. I felt the same way.
Thank you for your inspiring testimony. 😊
When I was a little girl in the 60s I heard at church that black people couldn't have the Priesthood I asked my dad. He said that they couldn't right now but they will some day and we need to pray for that. So I prayed because I thought it was so sad. I looked forward to that day and I would pray about it throughout my growing up. I admired all the black members because Ifelt they had so much faith. They were heros. I was a freshman in HS in CA when the announcement came. I was so excited and thought I'd burst with happiness. As I listened to Pres. Kimballs words I felt a great burden just wash away. Not a metaphorical burden but an actual burden that washed over me and made me so much lighter. It was one of the highlights of my life to know that all my brothers and sisters could partake of the fulness of Heavenly Father's blessings.
❤️
Imagine the Greatness that is also soon to come for African decent members.
What a beautiful thing that your father did for you - he didn't excuse it, but rather he taught to pray for change
i love your comments. Beautiful!
The question still remains. Why did it take so long. There is no good answer except the truth. The past leadership were racist. The current leadership likely isn't. But it also means some real haters ran the church back then and isn't the prophet supposed to be capable of divining with god? Idk. I grew up LDS, I live in Utah where it's everywhere. I still get pissed when people are wrong about Mormons (things like thinking they still practice polygamy, which they dont... not On earth anyway)
I’m white and I struggled with this for years. I nearly left the church over it. That all ended when I swallowed my pride called a black brother in the church to get his perspective. I called him. I felt the spirit. I never questioned it again. This man would later go on to be my bishop.
I've struggled with this as well and the only thing I can come up with is the culture of the church was racist. It was never doctrinal. Thankfully we can repent. I appreciate your sharing your resolution of the problem. It helps me in my struggle. Thanks again.
Same here, Matthew. I have a difficult time singing "Follow the Prophet and you won't go astray." We must ALWAYS pray over what comes down to us from leaders. A more recent example was the "exclusion policy." I never felt it was right, and I was very relieved when Pres. Nelson rescinded it. Another example of "church culture."
Thank you for sharing that dear Brother. :}
@@lindamcfadden57 “man interprets the will of God to the best of his ability.”
The prophets are still men, with a natural man (carnal body). We cannot expect our prophet to be perfect, only Christ was. This is why we have a personal relationship with God.
Love you brothers and sisters 🙏
@@rebeccaknudsen6190 Hi Rebecca, an honest question. If the church and priesthood was restored (this is the reason Joseph received the first vision) then the priesthood would have been perfect from the beginning. If it was truely restored, shouldnt it have have been correct from the beginning?
I was actually wondering about its history two days ago. I did some research and found what I needed. I know he answers our prayers. The questions made my faith grow stronger, and so has this message
I can understand this completely. I had a hard time understanding this when I was taking the discussions and finally realized we do not understand God's plan always. Why he places restrictions on certain things is not always clear or clear at all. In the Bible, of all the tribes of Israel, only the Levites could have the Priesthood. One could ask was he being racist and the answer is no. We have to remember God's ways are not our ways and we need to always have faith to move forward. This young man gets it! I am currently going through a very difficult situation and have always asked for God's protection and I could have the attitude that he didn't protect me. Well, I don't always understand his ways and have to have the faith to move forward and TRUST HIM! God bless this young man.
That's the first time I've gotten emotional from one of these videos. He hears us, he knows us, when we pray believing in him and with faith that our prayers will be answered, he does! Knowing this we can easier accept that what he did in the past was just and for a reason, regardless of what it was.
I’m eating tater tots and crying because of this man’s testimony.
Sonic? I'm eating mcdonalds and doing the same😭
I’m watching in bed and I’m crying too 😢🥰
I'm eating egg rolls and crying because of this man's testimony and laughing because of this comment.
Omg I was eating too, and SAME
The look in his eyes when he speaks of hearing our Heavenly Father’s voice…it absolutely melted me. He radiates all that is good. My eyes started sweating too. Seeing members’ of this amazing and true church speak with such conviction and sincerity is so uplifting to hear. It was just a few minutes of his time, but it gave me a lift I really need right now. He touched my heart ♥️
I served my mission in the amazing state of Georgia. My love for my people there is limitless. We taught and baptized brethren with African American backgrounds. The challenge of answering the question of the Church's history in regards to Blacks and the Priesthood was almost more than I could bear. I knew so little. I ached that I did not know what to say. I ached that I did not know the reasons for this ban during that time. It was the source of great frustration and seemed to shut the doors on my brothers who were very sincere in wanting to join the church if it weren't for that. Just as it challenged their testimony it challenged mine. But I went on the idea that there must be things I don't understand. Then many years later the questions found answers and that struggle only served to strengthen my faith. Jane Manning James. Wow. This woman's faith in the face of difficult racial issues inspired me, and inspires me today. I love her and can not wait to meet her. I am a white man from a small town in Utah who knew nothing about racial issues in the South until I got there. God bless this young man for paying the price to know the only thing that matters.
I have been faced with similar situations over the years. It’s hard when your don’t know what to say and I don’t want to speculate. I don’t understand it. I haven’t found clear answers as you have. But, I have complete faith that someday I will get the answers for the questions in my heart. I do wish it were addressed more clearly. I put it on a shelf and know God loves all of His children with out exception. Maybe someday I’ll get the answers, maybe I won’t but in His time and in His way. I continue to trust.
❤
Danor! What's up man! Appreciate your testimony! For some reason I've been fortunate not to struggle with this topic as a convert. Maybe that is due to God's grace on me or im just lucky 🤷🏿♂️ but the struggle is real for others. I honestly get it. I always tell myself God and Jesus Christ are real and I've had personal testimony of them to know that all will be answered in due time and to trust the plan of salvation. That is the key. Once we know God and his son Jesus Christ and have that witness, nothing in the past matters (as hard or horrible things may been). This life on earth is temporary and we are passing through for such a short time! Focus on things and principles that matter now, that will get us where we want to be in the eternities. #ChurchIsTrue
But here is my opinion. 🤫 the world wasn't ready for it. Look how blacks were treated with slavery, segration etc...if the church allowed blacks to have the priesthood in very beginning I feel there would have been very harsh persecutions (worst than what we have read about back in those days today). The Lords work would have been frustrated. Big events and freedoms had to happen first (Civil rights movement, law changes etc...) to keep gospel moving forward. I feel it would have been such horrible timing due to the pride of carnal men. Anyways just my 2 cents.
Thank you for sharing your insight Mr.300C, brother. As a white woman of pioneer background, I wondered for years about this too. Over the years with study and patience and occasional asking, I gradually came to feel just like you feel. God loves His children and could see things we can't see, and knows how low and depraved and cruel many of His children can and have been and likely would have been both toward early church members, white and black. We'll get the full picture at some point. Meanwhile, I agree with you and I always loved and admired all of the faithful black members of the church before the revelation on the priesthood and since!
Wow Wow Wow.
Thank-you so much
I've never thought about it in this way, thanks for sharing that!
Being an African descendant made me always think much more about this topic than my friends in the Church. I believe that in the future we will be able to fully understand the purpose of God in all this, but your words give us more direction. Thanks again!
I have always felt this way. I’m grateful for all who have stood strong and trusted in the Lord and His timing. Thank you for sharing and being a strength to others.
That’s a very interesting perspective. I appreciate you taking the time to share it. And I believe you’re right… all things have a timing and purpose as it says in scripture. God bless!
I have also heard His voice. I was feeling very depressed and down on myself, and I felt the impression to pray. So I did, and during my prayer, I asked for forgiveness for being a failure. I hadn't even finished my sentence when I heard a voice, very quiet and small, but very clearly say "You're not a failure." I immediately teared up. It filled me with peace and I know I felt his Love that evening.
Thank you for sharing your experience!
"I don't need justification for the past" so so true, I have never seen it in better words.
D&C 76 - Those who qualify for the celestial kingdom, do so by overcoming all things, by faith. It's interesting to think our biggest trials and mysteries here in mortality are what qualify us for the highest and holiest blessings in the life to come.
Thank you, I needed this today.
Thank you for sharing that scripture ❤️
Thank you. This has led me to find some much needed answers
I like how Danor phrased it. “I don’t need justification for the past. All I want is a personal relationship.”
There are other episodes within the church’s history that many might consider controversial, but things back then were very different than they are now. So that’s how I look at it. I don’t need justification for what happened back then to have a relationship with God now.
Thank you, Danor!
As a Black member of the church, I cannot turn a blind eye to the fact the Priesthood ban started with Brigham Young, and the blessings that came with the same Priesthood were denied for over 100 years. It’s easy to say it’s all in the past, but another fact is a formal apology has never been issued to us by the church. Right now there are members of the church who actually believe that I shouldn’t hold the Priesthood, nor should I be able to enter a temple; and they are still in the church. There is a growing movement of Black people who are leaving the church because they feel we don’t have a seat at the table, and I have to be honest on saying I cannot ignore that fact either. History is meant to be learned from so past mistakes aren’t repeated.
I was praying tonight and thinking of your comment and the feeling came to share these passages; I hope they help. Lean onto faith and trust of what you know to be true, God’s love for his children and the truth of his gospel, before you let others lead you down dark paths and away from salvation
Praying for you, my brother!
QUOTE: Right now there are members of the church who actually believe that I shouldn’t hold the Priesthood, nor should I be able to enter a temple; and they are still in the church. END QUOTE. Appalling! Sadly there is ignorance everywhere. I love diversity and want the perspective of all people. Blacks and all people of color have so much to offer to anyone, whites, myself. We can learn from each other. I wish you had a seat at my table and I at yours. Thank you for sharing a harsh truth.
I'm devastated to think that there may be church members with these attitudes. I have never heard anyone express that Blacks shouldn't hold the Priesthood or enter the temple, except one time a really old man said something along these lines in a Sunday School class I was teaching. I corrected him and told him that wasn't church doctrine and was very inappropriate. He died within a couple years of that.
I'm sorry if you continue to experience bigotry. It probably would be helpful to let a bishop know if someone in their ward has these kinds of opinions so they could address incorrect doctrine with them directly. I understand there would be action taken if they had been corrected, and continued to express these incorrect teachings as doctrine.
I remember the day when the announcement was made that "priesthood blessings" were to be extended to "all worthy males". I was 16 and sitting in the chapel near my home in Durban, South Africa. Except for one man everyone in the all-white congregation raised their right hand to "sustain" the announcement. Some years later I returned to the land of my birth - England. Two years ago, after many, many years I was fortunate enough to visit the country that as a child I had come to call home and visited the same chapel where I first heard that announcement. This time though, my family were the only white people in a happily full chapel. I say 'happy', most of us were; except for one man in front of us, who looked around and muttered "Why are there white people here?". As you say Matt, History is meant to be learned from so past mistakes aren’t repeated. I hope we all find peace in our different turmoils.
@@happiness7808 I certainly felt the spirit from that scripture thank you
I think a bigger question is: is it ok for others to need more than “the past was the past”? Are we going to enforce a value on them by saying, “well, you shouldn’t care so much about that”? Everyone has different needs in this Church and one person’s answer isn’t going to be for another. I hope we can find compassion for all of God’s children, even if they need more than the answer this video provides.
I don't think this video is an answer, it's a testimony. It's someone sharing how they felt the grace of God. Ultimately, the video is teaching you to face your concerns and pray, not to bury them. Some people are satisfied with this answer, others, like me, are not. However, the answers I've received through revelation satisfy me. I don't share those, cause again, the process of receiving the answers directly from God, is the answer. If that made any sense.
.it makes perfect sense - that GOD will show, tell, acknowledge, & answer each of His children uniquely & in such a way [that like Nathanael, alone under a fig tree] there can be no denying - when God speaks to you, you can't easily forget or deny...it is too amazing ...& HE gives to "all men (women&children) liberally, & upbraideth not"...i pray&wish for each of us for success in all things.
The answer to your question is, yes. It is definitely ok to need more than "the past was the past" -- I'm still strong in the faith, and I like to listen to other's testimonies with regard to this issue - I went to a fireside with Alex Boye that really affected me, and he only touched on this topic briefly. (Side note: Aside from his Uh-mazing voice, he is one of the kindest most genuine people you'll ever meet). -- but I don't think the Lord faults me for wanting more answers. I trust him to lead me to the truth line upon line as I'm ready to receive it.
I added a comment above. I don't have an answer - but I have maybe a perspective from a black member. I had heard him speak on this. He said that during that time, he thought of it as a protection from the Lord during that time. He said the world was barely prepared for accepting "Mormonism" OR color...and he said he thought of it like the Lord was waiting for safety before adding more persecution to members of color at a time when racial tensions were at their peak (Civil war to the 1970s). I thought - wow - that's actually a beautiful thought!! Did the Lord wait until after Martin Luther King, Jr and after Jim Crow laws were ended so these men wouldn't be further persecuted? (For those that weren't around in the 70s - people weren't friendly still to "Mormons" in many communities.. then add the outright racism and segregation that still existed beyond what we really know today.) When many members put today's eyes and perspective on the world that existed 50 years ago, it's difficult to bear. I'm not saying this is why... I'm saying that I'm grateful for revelation and that today all worthy men are able to hold the priesthood. ♥
ruclips.net/video/229PFD_xOAM/видео.html
I felt and feel the Spirit about your experience. I cried for a week when I read a book that told me that I must have sat the fence in heaven because of my skin color! I was a new member, about 16, and it hurt. I felt betrayed by God to give me a testimony of the Church's true nature as His kingdom on earth because I could not justify leaving it! My bishop told me it was false, but I could not understand why a Church leader would write it if there was no truth to it. He told me to then live my life in a way to show that I choose Him fully since I could not be dissuaded.
Years later, I have a testimony of my worth to God. The priesthood ban was never the issue--a human error in my book. The knowledge that I chose Christ matters, and that I choose Him again! Section 76 of D&C teaches me Heavenly Father's endgame. No matter what happens on earth, no matter what Church leader does what, or Bishop does not, God wants me to be like Him and be with Him. He wants it for all of us willing to stay the course.
I needed to feel the Spirit right now for other reasons, but this brought back God's answer to my prayers about the false doctrine of fence-sitting spirits. It brought back my first prayer after the missionaries found me.
I asked God if He was really there. He said, "Yes." That was it. That word consumed me and still does. Though He has spoken to me many times through the Spirit since my first prayer to Him, that "Yes" touches me each time I think of it.
As a people, believers have long struggled with imperfection in our perception of "others." Consider the great Apostle Peter. We, as a people, should unite against any prejudice, especially in ourselves and where and when we see it in church or public spaces. We should learn from history and definitely not use it as an excuse to perpetuate exclusion, unkindness, hard heartedness The second greatest commandment is to love one another as Christ loved us. All are alike unto God. It must break our Savior's heart to hear the cries of those innocents, the "different." Thank you, Davon, for your beautiful testimony.
Thank you for your comment!
I love it. God has a pattern with everyone he loves. First…please listen, I’m going to tell you something really important. Then….you are offspring of deity… my son. Life changing
I could talk about history from the Old Testament and all the reasons why it was that way, but Joseph Smith was against slavery and FOR having people of African descent hold the priesthood. I’m sure that biases were hard to undo and it took till the 1960’s and people like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King to really emancipate the cause. This situation particularly troubled Spencer W. Kimball. He was the president who took it to the Lord in earnest prayer. I remember being shocked at the announcement in 1978, not because it now allowed persons of African descent to hold the priesthood, but because I had never known that they couldn’t before. I’m a woman and I don’t get ordained either, but can partake in all of the blessings. Love all my brothers! ❤️
I agree with your viewpoint.
We often forget that the priesthood ban also prevented black women and men from being endowed, being sealed, or serving missions.
Insightful comment.
More and more as I learn and experience, I am coming to understand the importance of agency. Why did this or that person choose to go this path? I do not know. What I do know is that our agency is prime, it is the most sacred thing to Heavenly Father and He will do nothing to mess with it. Neither will He act upon us, but He encourages us to act for ourselves. That tells me more and more of how much He loves us. We will not understand all in this life, but we shall know all in some future day. In the meantime, if we are faithful the veil will be lowered and we will understand little by little. How grateful I am for that promise
This so called belief is based on the so called curse of ham being cursed by seeing his father's nakedness it was cannon who was cursed not ham the so called father of the black was in fact cush not ham. This lie has been used to justify slavery and many horrible deeds the book of Mormon is fake the tablets have never been seen and Joseph Smith got the book from demons staring into a hat.
This .maybe true for individual revelation but not for the Church as a whole. I've been member for 17 years and I still experience the racism at gatherings, when holding callings (which I have resigned from because of the racism and pressure) and from individuals whom still feel that people of color do not belong in "their church". Also I am Indigenous and I was told to work in the Temple I had to cut my hair which is disgraceful and disrespectful in my culture. I did and was admonished in my family for doing so. My hair is back and my family relationship is well. So if this church is going to be inclusive then it needs to embrace and not change people from other cultures and not try to assimilate them to look and be like the clean cut missionaries. Embrace us as we have embraced the church...
Very true... we need to change the toxic church culture we have created... it clouds the true teachings, doctrine, and gospel of the Lord. Thank you for sharing this
Very good point
I'm sorry for your experiences, but also please know that this is what brings you understanding. May God be with you.
My 8 year old gets so caught up in arguments and fights with my 3 year old. He doesn't realize that it is not important what a clueless 3yo thinks. Think to yourself, if a small child insulted you would it bother you in the least or make you chuckle? Try to realize that any racist members are just small clueless children. One day they will grow up and be at your level and they will see what you see. Start strong, Stay strong, my friend.
The gospel is true. The scriptures and the authority are true. But sadly the people are not. I am so sorry that you have been mistreated by those who you trusted and who should have treated you with unconditional love. I pray that you can find forgiveness for them and that you find your faith eventually renewed. I don't understand the past. I struggle with some of the things that come from our leaders, and how members treat each other. I know the Lord is not always pleased with his people.
Can you imagine your ancestors having been enslaved then embracing a religion that treats you worst than been enslaved, telling you that you are cursed and unworthy of a so called priesthood ?!? Now, can you imagine the daily mental gymnastics needed to convince you that this is the truth??!! Non Merci 🙏🏿
exactly
I LOVE THIS BROTHER AND HIS TESTIMONY!!! I FELT SO MUCH LOVE AFTER HE SAID WHAT GOD TOLD HIM!!! EVEN MY HEART GOT SQUISHED AND SOME WATERY EYES.
THANKS!🖐❤
My favorite church video right now.❤️ I think a lot of us have unanswered questions and it can make us lose our way but when we truly focus on our personal relationship with God we stop questioning and start trusting and can truly feel the peace and love of God. He knows our struggles and He is there for us.❤️
A wonderful testimony and message. A good example for all of us to follow when we face issues with church history that may make us doubt the truthfulness of the Church.
I had that moment too when I first started really going through my crisis when I wondered what was wrong with me, why was something that seemed so much easier for other people so difficult for me. Why did I have to wait so long for a promised blessing and then just when I thought it was my time, it became a curse and a burden and I was denied the happiness I thought I would soon have. I also heard His voice reassuring me and wondered if I were imagining it. I felt Danor's testimony so strongly and it reminded me of how I felt in my moment of need. I'm still dealing with my trial but I feel so much stronger for having had to go through it and like this guy I don't need to understand everything to know that I'm going to be ok.
Thank-you for sharing your story. I appreciate it so much. I am a convert, and caucasian and I have struggled with that myself. Because I had been excluded from so many things as a child it felt like others were being excluded from some things in the church. As I continued to learn and understand more about God I began to understand that was a matter of timing for everything in our lives. And it is in God's time. God doesn't exclude anyone from anything.
A few months after I was baptized that amazing announcement was made.
This is so exciting and fantastic. Puerto Ricans are of African decent along with Spanish and Taino. It was just the generation right before mine that was not able to have the priesthood. People outside the church couldn’t understand that people even with my color skin couldn’t have the priesthood. But I am so proud of those loyal Saint of the island of Puerto Rico who knew the church was true and that now are now waiting for out first temple.
Heavenly Father is a parent first,and he loves us all equally, he parents all his kids differently, and at that time,I always felt like he did this to strengthen his children, not to punish them! And once the priesthood was given, they were absolutely ready for it!🌍💜🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏼🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼👍
I think that the struggle of the early saints, being chased out every community and eventually pushed west was a test for them and their resolve to believe in the face of violence and death. The issue of black people being denied the priesthood until 1978 is probably equivalent to the pioneer story. This group of saints will have to struggle and have their faith tested in a seemingly unfair situation. At the end we know that God answers prayers and the Holy Ghost will help us find answers and peace. I wish their was a simple answer to this question but I'm afraid it's not simple at all.
I so agree, and i’ve never looked at it that way before!! it’s all about faith.
Yah but uhhh what about celestial marriage? Don’t u kind of need the priesthood for that?? Oh and priesthood blessings, so they have to ask someone else to heal the sick? What if nobody else is around to assist? Sacrament? Gotta have white people there to administer? But god created us equal right?
"seemingly unfair"? It was unfair & unjust, there is no debate.
At the end of the day whatever obstacles we face it's to see who we will choose/serve.
The struggle with the early saints was from cruelty from people outside the church. With this issue, however, it was our church that excluded them and made it into an unfair situation for black people. Why can’t the church accept its mistake and apologize?
There no explanation on why blacks couldn't hold the priesthood in this video
I met a black member of the Church on a mission that said when he saw the announcement of the change in church policy on the news that he felt moved by the spirit to find that church and he joined a few months later. Before meeting him I struggled with that for months. That amazing man helped me with that. I’m grateful for these amazing and humble people that can forgive when it is hard and spread love.
I was born in 1949 and grew up most of my childhood and youth in Georgia. I found the Gospel in 1967.
All of that is just for perspective when I say I love you. There is nothing I would change about you and I thank you for sharing your testimony. I remember how excited we all were when the revelation was announced. We were on the phone to each other and so happy for our black brothers and sisters. I would love to just sit and talk with someone as special as you and share our journeys with each other.
Hi. Your testimony of the priesthood as a man of colour is exactly the way it should be. I am South African, converted when I was 19yrs old, born in 1964, mixed with black, white, and Indian, guess what... none of that matters. Infact you and I have been blessed with direct communication from Heavenly Father. Thats validation brother. How many have been blessed like that. God bless you. Lots love
Thank you. We may not know all the details of our questions. We can Hear Him and that witness from the Spirit has sustained me through all the trials that have come. Stay in the light.
I was troubled and asked God for Mercy and Forgiveness praying for almost a month and I hear a still small voice and the same thing is soft and clear and precise saying " Read the Book of Mormon " and after I finished the reading I felt ease and accepted the will of the Father in Heaven and wait for thy mercy into me.
Thank you for sharing your experience! So glad to hear you could feel the Lord's forgiveness.
This was truly moving to me. I feel like in my own life one of the things I have struggled with has always been understanding the WHY of things. But I feel like over this last year and a half almost 2 years now with what is going on worldwide. I’ve had my eyes opened to so many things and I realize that God has a time for everything, a reason behind everything, and that we are in a very large test right now as a society. For me I feel like I’m going to work hard on not asking WHY’s. And to just pray for strength in all things. To be able to withstand what is happening now and what will be.
Thank you for your touching testimony! It is so amazing when we hear the Lord! He speaks in very few words, and yet in very powerful way that we feel in in every part of our being. When we hear His answers, we cannot doubt because of the overwhelmingly soul encompassing way he speaks to us.
Sometimes we just don't get a solid answer or understanding. My answer to my questions about plural marriage was, "You know that I love you and that you are no less that anyone else!" I prayed for the faith and the patience to understand it later. And He gave me peace about it.
thanks.
I am still currently struggling with this. Grew up in the church, baptized and confirmed 2004, went inactive at 18, and have been back now for a few months at age 30.
Being adopted, thinking that while my father (who did not foresee having a black son I’m sure) was on his mission during a time that black people were not allowed the priesthood.
I struggle with this because the church speaks so often, to this day, of missionary work. (I did not take the opportunity to serve mine unfortunately) To think of all the black people viewed as unworthy of the priesthood based on their genetics, and not allowed to serve missions, that is bizarre.
The struggle is in the biggest part of our doctrine; a living prophet. Why would such a massive and impactful event take so long to ‘come down the pipe’ to Spencer W. kimball? I have been asking Heavenly Father to help me see this situation more clearly. I am looking in many places and have spoken with my ward elders, if anybody has actual insight into the doctrine or what happened, please feel free to let me know. I do seek these things respectfully,I’m not sure what I’m seeking, but unfortunately nothing has satisfied my questioning yet.
Hi Adam, thanks for your question. Latter-day Saint scripture and teachings affirm that God loves all of His children and makes salvation available to all. The Book of Mormon teaches that all are alike unto God: "(The Lord) inviteth them all to come unto him and partake of his goodness; and he denieth none that come unto him, black and white, bond and free, male and female; and he remembereth the heathen; and all are alike unto God, both Jew and Gentile." (2 Nephi 26:33). Church leaders unequivocally condemn all racism in any form. You or others interested can learn more about the Church's beliefs at comeuntochrist.org?cid=42001274 .
Thank you for sharing ! I felt the spirit as you spoke !
This is so powerful. When he said God answered Yes My Son, I just felt the truth of those powerful words. I know it's true. Thank you brother for this testimony. Thank you.
"Yes, my son." That is the most beautiful testimony anyone could ever ask for. Thank you. God bless.
I’m 83 years of age and a former Baptist minister. I found the restored Church 51 years ago while preaching a sermon, the Holy Spirit spoke to me to read the Book of Mormon. I did and took the discussions. Some years later while listening to Martin Luther King’s “I have a dream speech” the Holy Spirit spoke to me “Blacks will soon hold the priesthood” 4 months later it happened. What a wonderful relief “all worthy men can hold the priesthood.”
I am Caucasian, reared in Georgia, I know that the Holy Spirit will guide us , if we will listen and hearken to Him.
I love you brother, we are all God’s sons and daughters.
This has me in tears. Your faith is astounding and immediately strengthened mine. This was just beautiful.
Thank you for sharing your story. The more I get to know Heavenly Father the more I feel His love for all His children which all people are.
I'm so glad to hear such a lovely testimony about this and trusting God! Thank you for sharing!!!🙏💖
I want to add that the gospel is not as cryptic or uninformative as many people think. It's great to take things on trust, and sometimes that will be our only option, but God is so merciful that He has given us a lot of information and we can find answers to so many of our questions if we just search for them.
I was wondering about this subject too at one point and so I did some research and I found on the church website that there actually were multiple black men in the early days of the church who were priesthood holders. At first, blacks were ordained just like every other faithful man. Brigham Young even said one them was one of their finest elders. Then suddenly God said not to give the priesthood to any more black men and never gave a reason why. But my own personal figuring was that it probably had to do with protecting our black members, both present and future (up to when all worthy men could receive the priesthood again), and the church as a whole. If you consider the history of the US at that time, it makes sense. And then when you consider the history of the 70s when blacks were able to receive the priesthood again, it was a safer time for them in our society. Again, this is just my own figuring about this, but knowing the nature of God and that He always has our best interest in mind, whatever His reason was, I know He had a caring purpose in mind. 💖
God doesn't always give us answers right away because He wants us to seek them out for ourselves. He wants us to take the opportunity to learn and grow from that search. Searching for truth makes you appreciate it so much more when you finally find it too, and it strengthens your faith in God when you can look back and see how He led you to it in the end. 💛
This video helped me so much. Lately I have been thinking about this topic and it’s been so hard for me to understand why God would not allow black people to hold the priesthood. This video truly was an answer to my prayers because it brought me peace. I admire this man’s faith through it all and I loved hearing how God spoke to him…it felt so intimate she reminded me that God cares about us individually.
This is just incredible! In time, “I did hear His voice,” he said. “It was the most beautiful, soft, amazing thing.” To verify what he heard, he asked again. “Yes, my son,” he heard in response.
A beautiful message. Thank you for sharing, my friend.
thanks for giving me the opportunity to hear this story. I felt impressed to pay attention to the words, because I wanted to give attention to this young man who had felt something important, and in turn I felt something important too.
how important this is. this is a hard question to be asked. it's good to know that what I knew and how I responded was truly guidance from my Heavenly Father. I know all answers will not be revealed but understanding for that time in history there was a reason and a purpose. will there be more conversations about race and the church?
I struggled with that myself and I'm not black. I'm a convert, that is one of the things that was holding me back from joining, but then like this young man I got it. That was the past. I can't understand everything.
This is a perfect example of what it takes to remain a faithful member of the Church. Those who choose to leave, it is often the result of having based their testimonies on non-fundamental, often speculative, things, which is a sandy foundation. Also at play is that everyone wants self-worth, which can affect anyone in the Church for any number of reasons (sometimes as a result of struggling with repentance). What this brother did was come to know, and base his testimony, on 3 fundamental truths of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, namely that his true identity wasn't a worldly one, but 1) was as a son of God, 2) that God knew him personally, and 3) that God also loved him. He came to know his true self-worth, which can only come through Jesus Christ. These 3 fundamental truths surpassed the worldly concerns, not because everything is now completely understood, but because it put everything in the correct perspective and priority.
Beautiful, thank you. You are so precious, each child is so precious to God. I do not understand all of God's reasons for what happens in this life. I do know that "...all things work for our good" in this life. 💜
Thanks for that sweet testimony! What a great experience!
That was wonderful. Thank you to whoever shot and edited this video for drawing down the external sound (music) and allowing silence for a moment while he continued to share his feelings and thoughts.
You know, the issue of why black members couldn't hold the priesthood is incredibly nuanced. If it were possible to approach it without any emotional reaction, I think an answer would be attainable. There are so many sensitivities on every side that it makes it difficult to do that. There is an extreme hesitation to visit the realities of prejudice on all sides. It's hard for us to understand that even the best people are prejudice to a large degree. It's also hard for us to even approach the idea that almost all prejudice is rooted in real experience to a great degree. This is a self confirming cycle and you cannot just pretend like it doesn't exist and make decisions that way. God only knows what is best.
So basically we ignore pass sins..don't address or acknowledge them publicly no apology nothing. Just move on ..Did God make a mistake back then or was this his perfect plan to have black people persecuted but also treated less than in the church.. makes you question faith
Danor, thank you for letting us in on such a sacred experience.
Thank you for your beautiful testimony. I also know you are a child of God, that He loves you and He loves His children of all races. So do I.
My mother who grew up in Northern Ohio had just joined the church a year before the announcement to life the ban. She told me that when the announcement came over the pulpit via general conference that 2 white men upon hearing the announcement, stood up and left the church.
Perhaps the Lord waited so long to life the ban because of deference to tradition and previous prophets, but also American white members were simply a product of their time and have racial issue that hadn't been overcome.
Danor has a strong testimony of faith.
As a black member of the church I cannot believe that God had anything to do with placing the ban or waiting so long to lift it. Joseph Smith was vehemently against racism and slavery and there were black men who received the priesthood. That changed with Brigham Young who was a racist and a slave owner.
The gospel is perfect. The church is led by imperfect beings. The sad history is that some past church leaders have discriminated against certain races.
I love this because it echoes my same experiences wrestling to understand the history of race and the priesthood. I have felt the Savior's love for me and for all people, and I have received witnesses of the divine calling of His prophets. That feeling of His love and assurance is enough for me until the day when He shall reveal all things.
I loved this so much, didn't expect to be in tears hearing his experience... thank you for Sharing!
that " Yes my son " felt so Real , what an Uplifting spirit filled testimony .
There used to be times when the gospel of salvation was only for the Jews. Was God unfair because of giving the gospel only for the Jews? Were the Jews unfair because of not allowing Samaritans in their temples and synagogues? The Jews received the law of not allowing someone that is not from the house of Israel to partake of the gospel. And so after awhile God allowed ALL of the people to hear the gospel of salvation, but the authority and ordinances were lost. Was God unfair because of not giving those people the chance to make all the ordinances needed for salvation? The thing is, when someone tries to blame the church for some kind of exclusion, they forget that God works in ways that we don't always understand at first, and we need to study in order to. We have to humble ourselves and watch God perform HIS justice, not ours.
There may be differences in our place of growth, the color of our skin, our language, our economic standing, but all of those things are not an impediment to exercise our agency and gain more faith and knowledge of the ways of God.
This is so awesome. I feel the spirit from this thing man. Thank you for sharing
I'm grateful to see/feel the Holy Spirit from this wonderful convert.❤
There are trolls all through this thread trying to stir up hate and discontent, but they have their reward. The master they serve will not uphold them at the last day..
But those who serve Jesus Christ will be succored and lifted UP at the last day🤍🕊 Praise God and HALLELUJAH 🎉💖
I bear my testimony that it doesn't matter how racist and awful a church once was, so long as they have the truth. In the name of Jesus Christ AMEN.
oooh how I love his testimony. This is so beautiful. Danor - thank you for sharing your soul. It is so precious!
you will always be good enough no matter what
Powerful and spiritual video! Thank you for your testimony and example to others.
I don't fully understand the Church's history but what matters is I can feel my Savior and Heavenly Father's love, comfort, and spirit and have a firm testimony of this Gospel and the Plan of Happiness 😉 all the other stuff doesn't matter much when you gain an eternal perspective.
Wow, thank you SO VERY MUCH for your beautiful, powerful testimony. Something we all need to learn, how to have that personal revelation from God.
I don't like it when people say " I don't see race/skin color". Of all physical differences between the races skin color is the least! There is hair texture, nose shape and lip thickness. And there is nothing wrong with that. We should not tip toe around our differences. They should be acknowledged and celebrated! I don't want anyone looking "BEYOND" my skin color/race. I want you to look AT my skin color (race) and accept me for who and what I am and I will do the same for you!
Danor thank you for sharing your experiences and powerful testimony. On Tuesday, this week, my son asked me about this exact topic. Why this happened in church history. God knows what each and everyone of us is going through and He answered a prayer through this video. Thank you ❤️
Thank you for talking about your relationship with God… that is all we need… with no judgements
“I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.” - Doctrine and Covenants 64:10
“(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)” - 2 Corinthians 5:7
When I think about it, and ponder on the events that took place, i see the Lord was doing this in stages. I see it was never his intention to leave anyone out of the gospel blessings ♥️
Loved this man's testimony! Now, on to women exercising the priesthood. (Heavenly Mother Love.)
NBA legend Thurl Bailey had such a wonderful insight on this. He relates a meeting he had with a church leader in Italy when the Spirit spoke to him. He never doubted again.
I see a lot of amazing comments full of faith and humility! Thank you all for sharing your testimony! I love this work. Regards from Nicaragua.
What a kind and definite reassurance of our Savior's love. Also, I appreciate the break at the end of the video to give a note of a trailer for a future video. So much less confusing.
Yes He does love you no matter what color you are. Your testimony was so awesome, thank you for sharing.
Wonderful person, showing faith. Wonderful experience. “Yes, MY SON!”
God loves all of His Children... he doesn't care how much melanin you have in your skin... 1 Samuel 16:7 "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart." The early saints made mistakes common to their generation... they were influenced by the prejudices of their day, even the leadership of the Church, unfortunately (they weren't perfect either). We need to hear God and follow his whisperings. The past isn't perfect, because we are not perfect, and we shouldn't judge past generations too harshly for their mistakes, because we probably would have acted similarly despite what we'd like to believe... but we can learn from the past... we can learn from their mistakes and move forward in the Lord's way.
The previous generations have gone on to their glories and received their forgiveness. We cannot let the past hold us hostage, but if we can examine the past without prejudice, we have great treasures to discover! We have to connect with our kindred dead in meaningful ways, not judgemental ones.
The early saints made common mistakes? Actually it was the church Prophets, Seers and Revelators'' declared doctrine for 3 generations that Blacks were not worthy/less valient. Yet no apology, zero accountability.
Is it true that black families couldn’t get sealed in the Temple for more than hundred years since the gospel was restored ? That it wasn’t just Black Males not getting the priesthood but the ban affected whole families not getting sealed. Is this true ? I heard this from a Black member friend and trying to get a straight answer but everyone I asked doesn’t know or is not sure. Thanks
Here is a straight answer. As it turns out, it was only a delay. God alone knows all the real reasons for it all. But we also know that some peoples have been banned from blessings by the Lord over the centuries for various reasons, some known and some unknown. It's in the Bible! Following are examples.
Initially, God wanted all Israel to become a kingdom of priests to him (Exodus 19:6). But then Israel really, really screwed up by not obeying the Gospel when presented to them (Hebrews 4:2). So they were given the Law of Moses (Galatians 3:8, 23-25), and the priesthood was taken from them, and a new priesthood was created for a specific line of Aaron, the brother of Moses. All the rest of Israel (with few exceptions) were banned from holding priesthood for generations.
We know from the Bible, too, that the nations of Moab and Ammon were forbidden to enter the congregation of the Lord, thus being banned from the blessings of being a member, for more than ten generations! (See Deuteronomy 23:4-5; Nehemiah 13:1-3.) And, we also have recorded two instances of the Holy Ghost actually forbidding Paul and Barnabas from preaching the Gospel to people in Asia! (See Acts 16:6-7.) If God truly is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8), why is this so major a problem when something similar to the above happened in our own day, even though we don't know fully the reasons for it?
That all said, in this Church we have ordinances for the dead (baptism, confirmation, priesthood ordination, initiatories, endowments, and sealing of families). While they could be baptized and confirmed (and some few ordained but not the rest), none of the rest of the ordinances and blessings truly were lost to any of those who were delayed while in life.
I love it when people talk about God As if he’s your best friend.
I do, too. I'm so thankful to know that He is my best friend, and everyone's best friend :).
A confirmation from the Spirit that you are a child of God and you are loved is priceless ❤️ when I was a teenager I had such an instance when I was at EFY and we were reading "The Living Christ". Seemingly out of nowhere I heard a voice in my head that simply said "I love you." And somehow I immediately knew it was Christ speaking to me. I can't ever deny that. It helps me hold on in tough times. Thank you so much for sharing your testimony. I know it will bless many others.
This brought tears. What a wonderful thing to say. ❤️
When we understand the true nature of God, that He is our Father and how much He loves us, we will understand that anything He commands is for our good. Even if we don't know all the reasons, we will have peace as long as we know this. God loves us all equally and everything He does is for our good. 💖
This would have meant nothing to me if I had not become a father myself. He desperately wants us to come home. Now I have a greater love for EVERYONE because I know heavenly father loves the man in this video as I love my children, each in a special and individual way.
I love this. Beautiful testimony that strengthened mine. Thank you.
Poor man, on one hand I feel sorry for him, he has to come up with ridiculous excuses, which are literally like science fiction to justify over a hundred years of pure racism in your cult.
And also generally it's just fascinating how people can believe in such fairy tales and science fiction. Anyone who is the least bit educated and knows history should just laugh at the entire philosophy of this cult. As Christ said "many false prophets will come..."
Such a great testimony, I felt the spirit In what you said , thanks so much for sharing this , I love you my brother and I'm so happy for your determination in seeking out our heavenly father with a sincere heart , keep up the great works my faithful friend .
That was great. That's all any of us need- to hear God's voice!
I love your Faith you are awesome! you made me cry!! you just told me what to do to solve my doubts . Thank you, brother!! you are perfect the way you are I don't know you in person but believe me , you just touch my heart to the other way of the world.
This is such a beautiful testimony! Thank you for sharing it. I've thought the same thing over the years when I've received personal revelation: Was that my imagination? But no. It was from the Lord. This is not an easy issue for many of us, white members included. It's still troubling, and I'm glad you've been able to receive an answer from the Lord.
It is so wonderful to feel the pure voice of the Spirit as you are testifying of God and his message to you. May the Lord bless you, brother!
Thank you for your testimony and sharing your personal experience that you had with God regarding this. It makes me feel loved and accepted too. I also feel the same about the priesthood as you.
I'm a Member of the Church I love it thanks to the almighty God forever
I wasn't born yet in that time ,but as a child of record while I was growing up in the church and I came across that story it first shocked me and had so many questions about that but whene I started to learn the reasons or the " WHY's' behind that decision my trust in him has increased , and I know he does everythings according on his due times and we have to trust him always ,today we are greatful that we all have his authority now ♥