June 9, 1978: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Extends Priesthood to All Worthy Males

On June 9, 1978, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) announced a historic and transformational change in its priesthood policy. Prior to this date, the LDS Church had restricted black male members from being ordained to the priesthood, a practice that originated during the church’s early history.

Background

The LDS Church, founded in 1830 by Joseph Smith, initially had no official racial restrictions regarding priesthood ordination. However, during Brigham Young’s leadership, beginning in 1852, a policy was established that prohibited black men from holding the LDS priesthood, which is central to church governance and spiritual activities. This policy was thought to align with Young’s beliefs about racial differences, which mirrored prevalent 19th-century racial attitudes in America.

The 1978 Revelation

Concerns and criticisms about this racially discriminatory policy grew throughout the 20th century, both from within and outside the church. These pressures, alongside the broader civil rights movements, increased calls for change. The significant policy shift came after church president Spencer W. Kimball, along with his counselors in the First Presidency and members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spent considerable time contemplating and seeking divine guidance on the matter.

Their efforts culminated in what church leaders described as a revelation from God, shared in a letter addressed to church members worldwide on June 8, 1978, and made public the following day. The revelation indicated that the priesthood should no longer be restricted by race or color, allowing all worthy males, regardless of ethnicity, to be ordained.

Impact and Reactions

This announcement was met with widespread relief and joy both within the LDS community and among civil rights advocates. It marked a significant step toward racial equality within the church and reflected a broader trend towards inclusion that was occurring in many religious and cultural institutions during this period.

The policy change had immediate and profound effects—black members of the church were soon ordained and began participating in temple rituals, enriching both their spiritual experience and contributions to the church community.

Broader Significance

The 1978 extension of the priesthood is seen as a pivotal moment in LDS Church history, affecting not only racial inclusion but also the church’s public perception. It opened avenues for the church to expand its outreach into diverse communities across the globe.

In hindsight, the event symbolizes a crucial step in the LDS Church’s ongoing journey toward embracing multiculturalism and expanding its doctrinal understanding to align more closely with principles of universal equality.