Black LDS theologian says church members still seek apology for priesthood ban
November 11, 2026 at 6:02 AM MT · via The Salt Lake Tribune · Summarized by Mormon News from original reporting

James C. Jones, a second-generation Black Latter-day Saint and theologian, told the Salt Lake Tribune's 'Mormon Land' podcast that many Black members continue to hope for an institutional apology regarding the Church's former priesthood and temple ban on members of African descent, which lasted until 1978.
Jones said that while he has come to believe Mormon theology embraces all ethnicities, the absence of a formal apology remains significant for many Black Latter-day Saints. The 2013 Gospel Topics essay 'Race and the Priesthood' disavowed past theories justifying the ban but stopped short of an apology.
The interview explored Jones's personal journey reconciling his faith with the Church's racial history and his views on current efforts toward racial inclusion within Latter-day Saint communities.
Mormon News summarizes reporting from established outlets and always links to the original. See an error? Report it.
Related coverage
- Zac Affleck apologizes to wife Jen, admits he 'messed up' their marriage
via Yahoo · November 10, 2026
- Jen Affleck discusses religious divide between Mormon Wives casts
via People.com · November 10, 2026
- Church music festival premieres new hymns at Tabernacle
via Church News · November 10, 2026
- Fairview mayor apologizes for temple opposition, says 'time to move on'
via Yahoo · November 10, 2026
From the Mormon News Podcast
- Mormon Bishops “Stand In As Jesus”? Becky Squire, Quentin Cook, Holy War BYU v Utah | Ep. 2225
Full episode and transcript · November 8, 2026
- Mormons & the 2026 Midterms. Mitt Romney Vindicated! Utah Turning Blue! - Mormon News | Ep. 2224
Full episode and transcript · November 6, 2026