Church History Matters 084 A Deep-Dive Into the Community of Christ (w/ Andrew Bolton)
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Oct 8, 2024 Andrew Bolton, a member of the Community of Christ and former Council of Twelve Apostles member, dives deep into the church's unique leadership succession. He discusses the transformative 1860 moment when Joseph Smith III was ordained, contrasting its governance with that of the Utah-based church. The conversation explores evolving roles, including the potential for female leadership and volunteer ministers, while also examining historical trauma and scriptural interpretations, such as LGBTQ inclusion and the significance of communal practices.
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RLDS Church Presidency
- Joseph Smith III, son of Joseph Smith Jr., became president of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS) in 1860.
- Initially, the RLDS Church considered lineal succession, similar to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but Joseph Smith Jr.'s four sons were all eligible.
Succession Instructions
- To prevent future succession crises, Joseph Smith III issued a letter of instruction in 1912.
- This outlined procedures including revelation, presidential designation, or nomination by the Council of Twelve with conference approval.
First Non-Smith President
- Grant McMurray's appointment as the first non-Smith president in 1996 caused controversy among some Community of Christ conservatives.
- Others found it liberating, believing it expanded leadership possibilities beyond a single family.