LDS Church comments on Charlottesville violence, scourge of racism

LDS Church
Salt Lake Temple. Photo courtesy: Intellectual Reserve

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, August 13, 2017 (Gephardt Daily) — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released a statement decrying racial intolerance and calling for peace and compassion in the wake of the white supremacist terror attack Saturday in Charlottesville, Va.

The following statement was posted on the Church’s website Sunday night:

“It is with great sadness and deep concern that we view the violence, conflict and tragedy of recent days in Charlottesville, Virginia. People of any faith, or of no faith at all, should be troubled by the increase of intolerance in both words and actions that we see everywhere.

“More than a decade ago, (then) church President Gordon B. Hinckley addressed the topic of racism when speaking to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He powerfully and clearly taught this principle: ‘No man who makes disparaging remarks concerning those of another race can consider himself a true disciple of Christ. Nor can he consider himself to be in harmony with the teachings of the Church of Christ.’

“For members of the church, we reaffirm that teaching today and the Savior’s admonition to love our neighbor.

“Our prayers are with those who are suffering because of this intolerance and hatred. We pray for peace and for understanding. Above all, we pray that we may treat one another with greater kindness, compassion, goodness.”

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here