Former Church Historian Richard E. Turley and Film Director Mauli Junior Bonner on the Importance of Early Black Pioneers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

This June marks 43 years since President Spencer W. Kimball announced the 1978 revelation extending the priesthood to all worthy male members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Historian Richard E. Turley and creative Mauli Junior Bonner join this episode of the Church News Podcast to talk about Black history as an important part of Church history. Mauli Junior Bonner is a Grammy award-winning musician, songwriter, and now a first-time film writer, director, and producer. His film, "His Name is Green Flake," explores the life and faith of an enslaved pioneer named Green Flake. Bonner's deep respect and connection with early African American pioneers inspired him to learn and share their stories. Today we talk about the inspirational early Black members of the Church and the lessons they can teach us.

The Church News Podcast is a weekly podcast that invites listeners to make a journey of connection with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the globe. Host Sarah Jane Weaver, reporter and editor for The Church News for a quarter-century, shares a unique view of the stories, events, and most important people who form this international faith. With each episode, listeners are asked to embark on a journey to learn from one another and ponder, “What do I know now?” because of the experience. Produced by KellieAnn Halvorsen.