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Episode 15 of Challenges explores the complex history of race and priesthood in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We examine the origins of the priesthood ban under Brigham Young, the theological justifications that developed over time, and the 1978 revelation that ended the restrictions. We discuss how racial teachings evolved, from early conflicting accounts to the "curse of Cain" and "premortal existence" theories that became mainstream doctrine. We also address the Church's current challenges in reconciling with this history and its implications for inclusivity in a global faith community.
Sources

• Essay: Citations on Blacks and the Priesthood
• Essay: Blacks and Priesthood_FAIR LDS
• Essay: Priesthood and Temple Restriction_LDS.org
• Essay: Race and Priesthood_Gospel Topics_LDS.org
• Essay: The Real Story of the Priesthood Temple Ban_FaithMatters
• Essay: Discussing Difficult Topics__BYU RSC
• Podcasts: Several Episodes of Mormon Stories: 1910, 1913, 1916, 1928, 1941, 1954, 1958, 1963, and 1965

AI Prompt
Discuss racist scripture, teachings, policies, and cultural norms within the Mormon Church. Begin at the earliest history of the Church through modern day. Examine racist teachings and actions about priesthood, the temple, and marriage. Explore cultural forces. Review Church leadership positions about segregation, BYU racial integration, inter-racial marriage, and the Civil Rights movement. Discuss the Church's "no apology" policy. Explore relevanc

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1. Truth | 2. Beginnings | 3. First Vision | 4. Priesthood | 5. The Gold Plates | 6. The BoM | 7. The BoA | 8. Polygamy | 9. Changes | 10. Challenges | ...