Brothaz on the Priesthood Series: Episode 1

The conversation explores the experiences of the participants growing up in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and their understanding of racial issues within the church. They discuss the importance of personal revelation and prayer in navigating the complexities of church history and teachings. They emphasize the need to seek clarity and understanding from God rather than blindly following leaders. The conversation also highlights the role of context and historical perspective in interpreting past teachings and actions.
Overall, the Brothaz express their commitment to the church and their belief in its potential for growth and progress. In this conversation, the Brothaz discuss the issue of race and the priesthood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They explore the historical context of the priesthood ban and the subsequent lifting of the ban in 1978.
They also discuss the importance of forgiveness and understanding in navigating the imperfections of church leaders. The conversation highlights the need for personal revelation and the importance of focusing on the doctrine and teachings of the gospel rather than the flaws of individuals. They emphasize the growth and progress of the church in becoming more inclusive and diverse.
Resources:
Presentation by Marvin Perkins: • Marvin Perkins - Race ...
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Naming the Series
03:34 Diverse Experiences Growing Up in the Church
12:31 Personal Life Experiences and Understanding of Racial Issues
28:46 The Role of Imperfect Leaders and Seeking Personal Understanding
37:10 Commitment to the Church despite Cloudy History
43:29 Understanding the Historical Context
49:30 The Role of Converts in the Church
54:46 Challenging Societal Perceptions
57:11 The Importance of Personal Revelation
01:00:17 Becoming More Christlike
01:02:08 Living Up to the Priesthood
01:05:06 Progress and Inclusivity
01:09:01 Understanding Spiritual Context
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[@brothazinthefoyer]

Disclaimer: all things that are said by the men in this video are their expressive opinions. They do not represent the official stance or opinions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

[@JohnWilliams-dy5dz]

“I went to the source and asked. I didn’t ask my mom, I didn’t ask…I went straight to the source.” This wise man built his house upon a rock! Thanks for sharing

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Thank you for watching! 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@LouAnnAdair]

Grateful Brotherz, for your perspective on important matters in the gospel. Thank you for your faithfulness and for another great episode.

[@bbqbros3648]

I think the church coming out of a monoculture in Utah to becoming the world wide church is like the council in Jerusalem. Peter and others STRUGGLED with giving the gospel to gentiles. But they eventually overcame it. Not all the apostles felt the same way all the time- same goes for the restored church. Not everything is gonna be perfect- because we aren’t perfect. We should be repentant and quick to receive what the lord reveals.

[@dmoney4075]

I baptized a Latino black man on my mission, I was young and inexperienced. In my myopic experience it never even crossed my mind to bring up church history when teaching him. I was fresh on the mission and a month after his baptism he got angry (naturally) and abandoned the church. I regret not teaching this important history, but learned a lot from it.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

If your learned, you can’t have any regrets!

[@tuvoca825]

We have to learn it from those who experienced it to be able to understand it better and to know what it means. My mom as a little girl in the 1940's once asked when the church would allow black men to hold the priesthood, and was quite proud of her own insight. Then her mom responded with a shrug... "When we're worthy of it." To understand this you have to know... neither one of them were black. Same for when we preach in Jerusalem or for anyone else who we haven't joined to us yet. Non-members may not have baptism but they can feel when people have the Spirit and there are things they do instinctual, as children of G-d that the children born in the covenant miss sometimes because they haven't prepared themselves to see, hear, know, feel. People get a little and think they know more than they do. We know so little. People need to be like the brother of Jared. All of us have this birthright if we live right. The Lord won't approve us for not doing his work. Just do it. It doesn't have to be hard... just do it. Brigham Young is probably tortured by his errors or his thoughts back then on the things he errored in.

[@lindamartinez7006]

He did t error on anything

[@lindamartinez7006]

He did not error on anything . Many people have seen Joseph Smith and Brigham young and others in a good place .

[@dlberker]

Every time I hear you guys speak I can tell Christ is your foundation. I'm so grateful you guys are sharing!

[@eseraletoa]

I honestly love this topic I know people don’t like to hear these issues brought up but one thing to really remember after all these things was done in the church… why did people of color stay and were some of the most faithful and strong covenanted people. As a Polynesian and Mind you I live in Hawaii in Laie on a street called “IOSEPA” if you don’t know the story of Iosepa I advise you as a member to go and familiarize yourself with it. The church is true the people are not is one thing I heard growing up. Laie is a Latter Day Saints community with the temple in it. Our ancestors faced racism and discrimination but all chose to stay.. why did they choose to stay is the question and when you find the answer you will know for a fact this is THE TRUE CHURCH!!

[@rochelleholmquist9259]

I believe that the Lord only sees his children with love and acceptance. And I belive that he expects us to do the same. I'm grateful that you have a great acceptance of the church members even with our shortcomings. I pray we will all learn to takr the steps to build a Zion people. I hope it doesn't take too long

[@andrewdurfee3896]

The thing about receiving revelation is that the Holy Ghost is present and enlightens the mind of the individual receiving it that cannot be fully conveyed to others. As you share an answer you received to a question you’ll find that it will be considered insufficient for others. The wrestle, study, and prayer you went through cannot be transferred to others. They may through imitation of correct principles come to the same knowledge as you.

[@bbqbros3648]

Our leaders are fallible but they are called of God. The first council of Jerusalem showed the ancient apostles were at odds at times. Brigham Young had big shoes to fill - but he at least foretold the day where blacks would enjoy the blessings of the priesthood and more. He wasn’t as foreword thinking as Joseph in the racial respect but maybe he and the CHURCH weren’t ready or worthy to receive the light which was revealed in 78. We receive line upon line- and if anything 78 should be a reminder to be ready to receive what the Lord has revealed.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Brigham Young had great concern about the members falling into blind obedience or failing to seek their own spiritual confirmation regarding the pronouncements of church leaders: “What a pity it would be, if we were led by one man to utter destruction! Are you afraid of this? I am more afraid that this people have so much confidence in their leaders that they will not inquire for themselves of God whether they are led by him. I am fearful they settle down in a state of blind self-security, trusting their eternal destiny in the hands of their leaders with a reckless confidence that in itself would thwart the purposes of God in their salvation, and weaken the influence they could give to their leaders, did they know for themselves, by the revelations of Jesus, that they are led in the right way. Let every man and woman know, themselves, whether their lea he ders are walking in the path the Lord dictates, or not. This has been my exhortation continually.” Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, Vol. 9, p. 150

[@blizzard2oo]

Of critical importance to every LDS member is to receive a personal witness from the Holy Ghost that the LDS church is The Lord's church and The Book of Mormon is true and Joseph Smith was called of God and Russell M Nelson is a true prophet. Former members who have left will return only when they sincerely follow Moroni 10 : 4-5.

[@williamkinikini]

I enjoy listening to these brethren of mine, as they express their personal journey growing in the gospel of Jesus Christ.💯❤️‍🩹💪😎

[@tuvoca825]

Outside of Utah, some of us are outliers already. Descrimination is just anither layer. Being a member among non-members, or a non-Utahn among Utahns, or so many other things we are... I don't think we are meant to get too comfortable. The branches were scattered for a reason and we need to gather them. We need that strength and if we get too "mono-culture," not only is that a sign we aren't doing our job yet as members, but we also risk making bitter fruit.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Good point!

[@brettmajeske3525]

Something that often gets lost when using the adjective "true" is that while can mean "having to do with truth", and can also mean "having to do with trust". That latter was a more common usage during the life of Joseph Smith. When the D&C talks about the Church being "true" I think it is talking about being trustworthy more than being perfect.

[@theincrediblerodofiron304]

I love you GUYS!!!!!!

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Right back ya!

[@emilybailey4283]

These things that are brought up and discussed are things my husband and I, and I myself, before I was married, had wondered about and discussed. Years back I had come across a video called, "Truth and Conviction: the Helmuth Hubener Story (teenage Nazi resistance fighter), and seen that a branch president was a member of the Nazi party and had forbidden a young Jewish man from fellowship because of his party preference. It was a difficult thing to accept at the time, for me, because I thought God would call nearly perfect people, certainly not people with prejudices, to preside over his flock. Accepting that our local leaders would come with flaws was hard to digest. I wanted to have faith in the leadership of the church. I have a testimony of the priesthood. This, however, helped me as I saw current shortcomings and failings, and was reminded by my Heavenly Father that no person would replace Him as the source I should look to. I feel like you are saying this too. I'm grateful for all you share. I hope God blesses you in the righteous desires you have to bring these things forward and address them.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Wow thanks for your comment! Love this

[@alatterdaysaintonfire5643]

One of the things that I am constantly reminded of is we have so little that we know about the people within the Bible 1,500 pages which covers 5,000 years. We have a library full of writings when it comes to the modern day Apostles and Prophets. So to compare the stature of the men from the Bible compared to the the men of today is unequaled by leaps and bounds.

[@talan2358]

“You can only root out something if you dig into it” 20:45 🗣️🗣️🔥

[@allanandjana]

Man am I glad I decided to hang out in the foyer tonight ! Loved the comments. I don’t think we will know “WHY” the ban was put in place….. until, Brigham(himself) fills us in on it. I truly believe that it will all make sense to us all. Yall need to get a larger picture of Jesus though, it ain’t quite big enough !!!😂😂😂😂😂

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Haha thanks for the comment! Hey Jesus is the center of everything we do. Just had to make sure people know just in case they think we aren’t Christian lol

[@behunin1963]

I love your conversation. You are correct there has been racism in the church, no prophet has ever been perfect save Jesus Christ. May your lives be blessed, always talk to the Father, always trust the Son.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Thanks for your comment, so true !

[@HopeBrunette]

I just want to say that I love your perspectives. I am white and gained my personal testimony when I was 10 yrs old. When I learned that blacks could not hold the priesthood, I questioned my testimony; I also question plural marriages. I thought about this for a long period of time, my answer was do you believe the Church is true and I did and could not deny it. So I was given the answer that all things will be revealed on the other side of the vail. I have learned some new things from you guys THANKS!

[@brothazinthefoyer]

We’re happy it was an inspiration to you. Thanks for watching! We have more episodes we plan to drop

[@kimberlylawson8240]

I appreciate this conversation so much, and your ability to give your own personal experiences.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Thanks for watching!

[@johnbushman57]

That was such an intelligent and insightful discussion. Wow. Thanks for sharing it.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Thank you for watching!

[@CarlosRomero-gb3ht]

This is amazing content. Thank you brothers!

[@maryanderson4793]

These guys are awesome-- such good examples

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Thanks! We are just on the path just trying to put everyone to the tree!

[@user-ux3vb5zg1p]

God tests those He loves the most to use them to be a shining light of the gospel in these last days and many black saints were strong humble and faithful when they couldn't get the priesthood now African Saints are blessed the church is growing fast there and they have Temples they are a beautiful example of faith strength humility and courage we want more black latterday saints we are all equal but most dark skin saints have the best singing voices we dont look at skin colour only the heart

[@alatterdaysaintonfire5643]

I am 60 years old, well 59 almost and I grew up in a family that spoke racist dialogue all the time. I had great friends that were black and even those who would back me when somebody decided they wanted to fight me. If I couldn't handle myself. I would speak The same racist comments as my family would, but I was unaware at the time because I was ignorant. Over time I've learned And know that that was wrong, but even with all that I was exposed to through my family, I never hated anyone that was black or any other color. We can grow up in a generation or in a society that can spew out garbage but still in our hearts Love those who are hated by that society even though that we get caught up into it ourselves.

[@danpiedra3910]

Great episode brothaz! I really appreciate your many perspectives - loved the analogy of the Church as a living body which should also be eligible for the forgiving power of the atonement. I remember being asked prior to and while on my mission why this had happened, and I gave the same answer many have: “We don’t know why, the Lord must have wanted it that way”. I never felt good about it because I knew that it made no sense given what had been taught in the BoM and D&C. I now know that the practice was a direct result of incorrect interpretations of scripture and policy in the early days of the Church. The Lord allowed leaders (mere mortals) to err, as we all do, knowing that nothing can frustrate the work from progressing. Many ask, why didn’t someone ask the Lord the obvious question. As you guys mentioned, culture and practices of the time had much to do with it, but in the end, President Spencer W. Kimball sought out unanimity and moved to end the practice. The growth of the Church in African nations, Brazil, and other nations with large black populations also raised awareness to the need to undo what had been incorrectly interpreted as the Lord’s will. I am humbled by the stories of those pioneer black members who accepted the gospel never knowing if they would ever hold the priesthood or enter the temple but holding on to faith in the fact that the Lord would at some point, rectify things. Those pioneers are truly inspiring. To those who wish to dive deeper, I suggest reading “Let’s Talk About Race and the Priesthood, by Paul Reeve (you guys should get him on your show). There is also a 7-part series on the Church History Matter’s youtube channel - it borrows from Paul Reeve’s work as well as Edward Kimball’s paper - an inside view of how the 1978 revelation was received.

[@NancySimons-jh4jo]

Growing up in California in the 60s I don't remember any blacks in my high school. I remember the watts riots. Now I have black grandchildren, Japanese and Indian husbands of grandchildren. We are all children of God. Joseph Smith was running as president on a platform for reparations for blacks. Probably one of the reasons he was killed. Hopefully now is the time for all of us to unite and love each other.

[@catchingpearls4679]

Everything is a test even this topic. It’s all just one big gigantic test. Those who accept the gospel knowing the difficulties of this topic have overcome half the battle and are far more advanced spiritually and abundantly blessed because of it. The whole point is to past the test or do all in our power to do so.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Agree. Following the gospel can’t be that easy. There’s always something to try our faith. For some it’s this, for others it’s another

[@briandillard3809]

I knew every time we taught a black investigator this topic would come out. We have so much info now. Now I can be “message Brothaz in the Foyer”. Non serious comment - you over there with that “grape drink”. Crackin’ me up.

[@cindymoore5025]

I was so happy to find your page when I was searching for something meaningful to watch! Thank you so very much for starting this, it brought me to tears. (happy tears) We really need this content!

[@brothazinthefoyer]

That gives us joy to hear that. Thank you for being here and joining!❤️

[@isaacparkinson1361]

I hope y’all know how needed this podcast is! Amazing thoughts.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Thank you! Stay tuned we have much more to cover

[@hypercrafty]

I had a lightbulb moment one time while listening to a story on NPR about Southern churches (not lds) who had been segregated for so long that they became entirely different religions. They can’t get them to come together to this day even though they are the same denomination. it occurred to me that the same thing could’ve possibly happened to lds churches before equal rights laws. I wonder if because of racism and wards designated by geographical location that two separate sects could have formed. Even though both could’ve been equally faithful holding the priesthood would would be they have suffered the same fate. We know that God expects our church to remain unified and it would’ve been impossible back then. Is it possible that maybe he held the priesthood back until society was ready to be integrated? Could it have been a merciful thing to preserve the gospel until some of the evil practices were done away with in regard to separation of peoples and racism? Thinking of it in this way it still fits the narrative that people were racist and that it wasn’t right, but it was society that caused the problem, not God. Maybe he withheld the priesthood until he knew society was changed. It’s one way to look at it that seems plausible and makes sense to me because we know God is no respecter of persons. What do you guys think about that theory?

[@sionel2604]

I just found yall podcast… Love it! Keep it up brothers!!!!

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Welcome home!!

[@conloarca9643]

💗

[@kimberlytousley3450]

❤

[@patriciafinn5717]

Racism is should never be excused..its lasted for 140 years...they have never apologised properly. .but hey its your life and after brad wilcoxs remarks i doubt it will never be gone. Respect yourselves brothers...i.cant accept it and other policies..❤❤❤

[@academyofchampions1]

New episode drop!

[@Jesuslovesyouinfinitely]

Awesome content, thank you!

[@brothazinthefoyer]

@@Jesuslovesyouinfinitely thanks for watching!

[@brettmajeske3525]

This is such a difficult topic for so many people, and unfortunately, many of the resources on You Tube are white men talking to white men. Not that they don't need to struggle with the history, but it is just not the same as the conversation I am watching here.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Look up Marvin Perkins he is a great resource he many great presentations. We plan to have him on soon to discuss in more depth of this topic

[@TrevorMiller754]

You guys should see if you can get Matt Harris on! He just published his book called Second Class Saints all about the priesthood ban. He’s awesome!

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Well definitely look into him as well. Thanks for the reference!

[@blizzard2oo]

Proper word is "restored". The word re-organized was used by what is now the Community of Christ who used "re-organized" in their title.

[@blizzard2oo]

One day we will likely learn what reason the Savior did not allow all worthy males to receive His priesthood. Keep in mind that in Biblical times only a select few males were Priesthood holders.

[@blizzard2oo]

One thing we know for a fact : Christ loves every person.

[@SaltLake808]

I was curious what your callings are at church? Have any of you had a chance to be Bishop or in the Bishopric? You all have a great demeanor for that !🤟

[@brothazinthefoyer]

We’ve been presidents , and served in bishoprics as well. But don’t put that on us 😂 not a mantle I’m sure we do not want lol

[@utimakasini7176]

One thing I know is if you listen from your phone in your pocket, you would never know you're listening to a bunch of black guys 😂

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Not sure how to take that, but okay lol

[@utimakasini7176]

@brothazinthefoyer it's because y'all is living in the light and educated. I know those in the dark will make fun of you. Been there done that. 🙂

[@halsmith7642]

The priesthood is a service calling it is sometimes wrongly perceived as an organization with a leader that you are expected to blindly obey by both members and non. I like to speculate that in 1830's when the priesthood was restored it was not expected to be followed by children of God that were at the same time being subject to chattel salvery. A slave might not be expected to also be a priesthood servant. Prior to 1830 the priesthood was restricted to everyone except Levites. The reasons for the restrictions in the 1840's were not well documented resulting in a period of time that it took to make the needed change. I also like to speculate (imagine) that the date the priesthood would be restored to the Black race was selected by the Pharaoh that designed the Giza pyramid with the entrance to the Kings and Queens chambers at the 1979 inch mark per the pyramid inch dating hypothesis.

[@brettmajeske3525]

The only problem with what you are saying is that Blacks were ordained in the 1830s and 40s. The restriction instituted by Brigham Young didn't happen until the 1850s, and even then was only for the MP. At that time every MP ordination needed the approval of the President of the Church, and BY stopped approving Black ordinations without issuing a formal policy change explaining it. Aaronic Priesthood ordinations, which only required approval from the local Bishop, continued at least until the 1880s in some parts of the country. It was not until the early 1900s that an official policy was published restricting all Priesthood ordinations. It is a much more complicated history than many people realize.

[@rock5948]

Nice conversation.. But, actually it didn't start with Brigham Young. As you research church history Joseph knew and understood. But all things where done according to the prophocies and will of the Lord. I personally never felt that the priesthood ban was bad because I was taught by my father as a youth and I searched the scriptures diligently for myself and gained a witness. As you read Abraham you'll get a better understand, but the curse was just on administration for a time. Only God could lift the curse and make it known unto his servants the prophets by revelation in which he did in his time. I could share the historical records but it would be a lot to put in the comments.

[@brothazinthefoyer]

Brother, thanks for the comment, we'd love to continue to expand our understanding and welcome your dialogue. Email us! Also, there are a lot of angles we need to discuss on this topic. We havent even reached the tip of the iceberg. We plan to have some historians on this subject and other experts as well. Thanks for your comment.

[@tuvoca825]

Lost sound on the intro. Copywright strike?

[@brothazinthefoyer]

No unfortunately it was an editing error on our side 😅. We are all amateurs and bootstrapping hopefully soon we will get a pro to do this for us