There is a seismic shift on the priesthood ban in Mormon fundamentalism. It’s happening within independent Mormon group. Justin Francom shares the inside story of how the independent fundamentalist group in Missouri recently made a historic decision to officially abandon the racial priesthood ban and open their temple to people of all racial backgrounds.
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Acknowledging “Brigham’s Mistake”
For decades, many fundamentalist groups have strictly enforced a ban on Black individuals holding the priesthood or entering the temple. Some even consider it one of the core “pillars” of fundamentalism. However, Francom completely disagrees, boldly stating his belief that the original priesthood ban was simply a mistake. While he respects Brigham Young’s vital role in the restoration, Francom argues that modern believers tend to over-idolize early leaders, forgetting that they were mortal men entirely capable of making errors.
All-Night Prayer Meeting
The turning point for the Missouri group occurred as their new temple was nearing completion. A serious debate arose among the men regarding whether they would allow people of Black ancestry to use the temple. To resolve the heavily polarizing issue, about 25 men gathered in the unfinished celestial room for a special, all-night prayer meeting.
The room was sharply divided. Some men strongly advocated for abolishing the ban, while others felt a duty to protect a doctrine their grandfathers had fought for. Realizing the tension, Tom Zitting suggested that every man symbolically place his personal biases and deeply held convictions on the altar, covenanting to accept God’s will above their own.
A Vision of Sacrifice
Following this covenant, the men engaged in a true order of prayer. As Francom led one of the prayer circles, he was suddenly struck by a vivid, visceral vision. He saw himself and the other brethren literally tear their living hearts out of their chests and place them on a stone altar as a token of sacrifice.
Looking up, Francom saw Jesus Christ in white robes, smiling and accepting their offering. The stone altar then began to rapidly grow, transforming into the Missouri temple itself. Looking down from above, Francom watched as “pinpricks of light” representing believers gathered to the temple from the local community, the nation, and eventually the entire world. He understood this as a conditional prophecy: if the men were willing to sacrifice their personal traditions, the Lord would bless their temple to be a beacon of light.
A Unanimous Resolution and a Historic Milestone
Despite powerful visions and shared revelations, the men continued to debate until the morning sun began to rise. Finally, a quiet, non-confrontational brother stood up, declaring that they all knew what was right and it was time to stop wasting time. Moved by the Spirit, the men unanimously agreed to put the priesthood ban aside forever.
Because of this decision, a person of Black ancestry has since received their ordinances in the Missouri temple. Francom points out the monumental historical significance of this event: it marks the very first time in this dispensation that a Black individual has received the original, unedited 1800s endowment (including early teachings like Adam-God).
Priesthood Ban in Mormon Fundamentalism
Francom also shares his unique perspectives on gender and the priesthood, arguing that women hold the fullness of the priesthood upon receiving their second anointing, and can exercise their husband’s priesthood once sealed.
Ultimately, Francom hopes these progressive steps will help independent believers find peace. Through his newly launched Mormon Legacy Ministries, he hopes to provide a “halfway house” for those who feel alienated by mainstream LDS policies or rigid fundamentalist dogmas. By embracing a willingness to correct the mistakes of the past, Francom’s community is carving out a brand new, inclusive path forward for the Mormon restoration.
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