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Church History
Book of Mormon Peoples: Diversity & Ethnicity
Ancient accounts suggest Book of Mormon societies were likely multiethnic, with diverse ancestry reshaping our understanding of Nephite and Jaredite identity.
Book of Mormon Peoples: Diversity Beyond Color
Understanding Book of Mormon ethnic diversity requires examining the stories of Zoram, Mulek, and other groups brought to the Americas.
Blacks In Mormonism: Black and White in the Book of Mormon Pt 2
The first reference to color in the Book of Mormon describes a skin of blackness. Let's see if it fits the pattern of blacks in Mormonism.
Blacks In Mormonism: Black and White in the Book of Mormon Pt 1
Understanding how the Book of Mormon uses skin color requires examining how color metaphors function in Old Testament language.
The Racial Ban: Policy or Doctrine? (Part 3)
As President McKay softened the Church's position, apostles debated whether the priesthood ban was changeable policy or eternal doctrine.
Was the Racial Ban Policy or Doctrine? 1908-1978 (Part 2)
Between 1908 and 1978, church leaders debated whether the racial priesthood ban was doctrine or policy—a question that would shape the path toward the 1978 revelation.
Was the Racial Ban Policy or Doctrine? 1908-1978 (Part 1)
Dueling false doctrines and false memories entrenched the priesthood ban in the church for 70 years, until church leaders united in seeking divine revelation.
Race and the Priesthood with Marvin Perkins (Part 6)
Marvin Perkins addresses common questions about the Church's historical priesthood ban, what spiritual darkness meant, and how members can approach this difficult history today.
Race and the Priesthood with Marvin Perkins (Part 5)
Marvin Perkins explains the scriptural foundations for priesthood eligibility and analyzes how racial attitudes influenced ecclesiastical policy.
Race and the Priesthood with Marvin Perkins (Part 3)
Understanding ancient scripture requires grasping idioms—a key to interpreting the Church's racial policies through biblical language.
Marvin Perkins: The Priesthood Ban & Its Legacy
A conversation with Marvin Perkins on the priesthood ban, its justifications, and the ongoing work to address its legacy.
Marvin Perkins: Race & Priesthood Restriction
Marvin Perkins explores the scientific and theological basis for understanding race and the priesthood in the context of Latter-day Saint history.