Newsroom
The Latest
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
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.
By Todd Noall
Tough Questions & Responses with Paul Reeve (Part 6)
A discussion on consensus-based leadership, learning from history, and leading out in racial justice.
By Todd Noall