LDS Church Leader Apologizes for Racist Remarks During Worship Service

Kyle S. McKay, a high-level leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has issued an apology for remarks he made during a regional worship service in Oklahoma. McKay, who serves as the church historian, briefly reenacted a racist rendition of an African American spiritual during his speech. The incident occurred as he was preparing to deliver a prepared address, and he made a joke about the song, which had recently been added to the church’s hymnbook.

McKay’s remarks included a reference to a local leader in his Utah congregation who performed the hymn in a way he found inappropriate. He reenacted the performance, attempting to mimic an accent supposedly reflective of a 19th-century Black man. In his apology, McKay acknowledged the harm caused by his words, stating, “My words have caused offense and injury, and put a blight on an otherwise wonderful weekend.” He expressed deep regret for the pain and embarrassment he may have caused.

In his statement, McKay prayed that “Jesus who descended below all sin and error, will somehow heal wounds I may have caused, and in the process, give me better vision and judgment.” The apology followed a broader conversation about race within the church, with some Black members and former members noting that such incidents reflect deeper institutional issues.

The episode has sparked discussions about the church’s historical treatment of people of African descent. For over 125 years, the church barred individuals of African descent from priesthood ordinations and temple ordinances. Melodie Jackson, a doctoral candidate researching race in the church, emphasized that while personal accountability is important, the issue of racism within the institution remains significant.

The incident highlights the ongoing need for reflection and growth within the church, as it seeks to address historical and contemporary challenges related to race and inclusion.

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