LDS church says racism not of Christ in statement on Charlottesville
(KUTV) The LDS church said racism is not of Christ in a newly released statement about the events this weekend in Charlottesville, Virginia, where a white supremacy rally turned deadly.
"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 and goodness," the church said in the statement provided to KUTV Sunday through a spokesman.
The statement comes as rallies and vigils are being held across the U.S. to support the victims in Charlottesville, Virginia.
The statement, from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often called the Mormon church, criticized people who use racism in speech, taking a quote from one of the church's former, late leaders, President Gordon B. Hinckley:
No man who makes disparaging remarks concerning those of another race can consider himself a true disciple of Christ.
The full statement is below:
"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 and goodness."
