Episode 621: Dr Paul Reeve, LDS Historian, New Book “Let’s Talk about Race and Priesthood”

My friend Paul Reeve (active Latter-day Saint, Simmons Chair of Mormon Studies at University of Utah, author, married father of six) joins us to talk about his new book (published by Deseret Book) called “Let’s Talk about Race and Priesthood.”

This book (forward written by Darius A. Gray) shares the historical facts and personal stories around this important topic. Paul has divided the book into three sections:

Phase One: Universal Priesthood and Temples

Phase Two: Segregated Priesthood and Temples

Phase Three: A Return to Racial Inclusivity

Paul talks about why this book is needed, how racism still is a challenge in our Church, how understanding our history—even the difficult chapters—is essential to healing and coming together to create Zion. In addition to the historical facts, Paul humanizes this topic by sharing stories of black Latter-day Saints impacted by priesthood and temple restrictions.

I believe it is the responsibility of Latter-day Saints to know our history. I encourage all of us to read Paul’s book and reflect on what we can do in our circle to better support black Latter-day Saints and root our racism—following the charge extended by President Nelson.

Deseret Book writes about this series of books: “Each is written by a trusted, faithful scholar who thoroughly explains the topic including key issues to consider. Designed for people who have sincere questions and are seeking answers, the series provides access to some of the best thinking in the Church.”

Thank you for Paul for your life work to help us understand this issue—and bring to light the heroic and often painful stories of black Latter-day Saints.

Podcast Links:

Deseret Book: https://deseretbook.com/p/let-s-talk-about-race-and-priesthood

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1639931198

Black Latter-day Saint database: www.CenturyOfBlackMormons.org

Paul Reeve bio: https://faculty.utah.edu/u0033169-W._PAUL_REEVE/hm/index.hml