June 9, 1978

Worthy black men in the LDS Church will be eligible to receive the priesthood, the First Presidency announced today.

A letter sent to church leaders said God has revealed a change in the policy which has been in effect since the early days of the 148-year-old church. Blacks of African descent have been denied the priesthood. The church has given no official reason for the denial.

The following is the complete text of the press release and letter.

"The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today released the attached letter addressed to general and local officers of the church throughout the world. The letter was signed by President Spencer W. Kimball, world leader of more than 4 million Mormons, and his two counselors in the First Presidency, President N. Eldon Tanner, first counselor and President Marion G. Romney, second counselor.

Copyright Brigham Young University 22 Nov 2005