During the Church's "Be One" event celebrating the 40th anniversary of the priesthood revelation, touching stories were shared of the black pioneers in the Church who remained faithful despite painful priesthood and temple restrictions. President Dallin H. Oaks acknowledged, “I observed the pain and frustration experienced by those who suffered these restrictions and those who criticized them and sought for reasons. I studied the reasons then being given and could not feel confirmation of the truth of any of them.” He also shared the touching moment when he sat down and cried for joy learning of the priesthood revelation. President Russell M. Nelson added, "Differences in culture, language, gender, race, and nationality fade into insignificance as the faithful enter the covenant path and come unto our beloved Redeemer." Read President Nelson's full remarks here, and President Oaks's full remarks here.
The world is largely defined by division and violence. But “Be One” was both a call and a recommitment to unity and love. The event’s wide-ranging offerings of festive music, dance, and faith-promoting messages doubled as reminders of the transcendent power of togetherness through Christ.
“We realize that only the comprehension of the true Fatherhood of God can bring full appreciation of the true brotherhood of men and the true sisterhood of women. That understanding inspires us with passionate desire to build bridges of cooperation instead of walls of segregation,” said President Nelson.
The Church’s 17th president concluded his brief remarks invoking a blessing “that we may overcome any burdens of prejudice and walk uprightly with God—and with one another—in perfect peace and harmony.”