Description

The LDS Church’s racial restrictions on priesthood and temple access, historically justified by teachings like the “seed of Cain” and the idea of “less valiant” premortal spirits, persisted until the 1978 revelation officially ended the ban. Yet even after that point, figures, such as Bruce R. McConkie continued to reference earlier rationales, creating tension between official change and lingering theological narratives. Many scholars such as Matt Harris (Second Class Saints), Paul Reeve (A Religion of a Different Color) and Newell Bringhurst (Saints, Slaves, and Blacks) have examined these complexities and the struggle among LDS leaders to fully repudiate earlier racial ideologies.

Rather than presenting definitive answers, this presentation explores how emerging tools—particularly AI—can support open and engaging conversations across differing views. By engaging with AI to analyze this history, the presenter highlights both the potential and the limits of this technology in shaping understanding. More importantly, this method can lead to careful questioning, intellectual rigor, empathetic dialogue, and greater connection with friends, neighbors, and loved ones who may hold varying beliefs. When combined with curiosity and compassion, AI can help foster thoughtful, bridge-building conversations on even the most sensitive issues of faith and history.

Speaker

• Randall Davis