Nor can he consider himself to be in harmony with the teachings of the Church. Hinckley declared that “no man who makes disparaging remarks concerning those of another race can consider himself a true disciple of Christ. The Church unequivocally condemns racism, including any and all past racism by individuals both inside and outside the Church. The Church immediately began ordaining members to priesthood offices wherever they attended throughout the world.
Church leaders sought divine guidance regarding the issue and more than three decades ago extended the priesthood to all worthy male members. It is not known precisely why, how or when this restriction began in the Church, but it has ended. At some point the Church stopped ordaining male members of African descent, although there were a few exceptions. During this time some black males were ordained to the priesthood. In fact, by the end of his life in 1844 Joseph Smith, the founding prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, opposed slavery. People of all races have always been welcomed and baptized into the Church since its beginning.
The Book of Mormon states, “black and white, bond and free, male and female … all are alike unto God” (2 Nephi 26:33). The gospel of Jesus Christ is for everyone.
