FAIR is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing well-documented answers to criticisms of the doctrine, practice, and history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Racial issues and the Church of Jesus Christ/Blacks and the priesthood/Ban
The priesthood ban
Topics
The priesthood ban
Overview
Summary: An overview of the priesthood ban that was lifted in 1978.Origin of the priesthood ban?
Summary: The origin of the priesthood ban is one of the most difficult questions to answer. Its origins are not clear, and this affected both how members and leaders have seen the ban, and the steps necessary to rescind it. The Church has never provided an official reason for the ban.Understanding pre-1978 statements by members and leaders of the Church
Summary: Critics frequently parade justifications for the ban by past General Authorities that are considered quite racist by today's standards. While these have not been officially renounced, there is no obligation for current members to accept such sentiments as the "word of the Lord," and they most certainly do not reflect the Church's current position and teachings.Lifting the Priesthood ban
Summary: Is it true that the Church has never produced a copy of the revelation granting Blacks the ability to receive the priesthood?Did social pressure play a role in lifting the ban?
Summary: Critics try to raise doubts about the authenticity of the 1978 revelation by claiming that it was dictated by social or governmental pressure.