Silas 1st African-American to hold position of Bishop

[Hemidakota]

Randall Silas, a bishop of a Hattiesburg congregation
of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
speaks with Chad, Colleen and their daughter,
Sadie Foote outside the church.
(Matt Bush | Hattiesburg American)

ARTICLE EXCERPT: Silas is the first African-American bishop for the 380-member Hattiesburg congregation, which has about 15-20 black members. Stevens said the exact number of African-American members in Hattiesburg is not counted because membership records do not differentiate race.

ARTICLE LINK: Silas 1st African-American to hold position | hattiesburgamerican.com | Hattiesburg American

[talisyn]

I kind've thought that bishops of African-American lineage was old hat by now, I guess in some places it isn't. Either that or it was a slow news day Anyways I'm sure he'll serve honorably.

[Moksha]

Originally Posted by talisyn

I kind've thought that bishops of African-American lineage was old hat by now, I guess in some places it isn't.

Past traditions in Mississippi and the surrounding region make them unique enough, that this is a newsworthy story.

[ADoyle90815]

I guess it took 31 years in some parts of the country for that to happen.

[annewandering]

better late than never. our stake hasn't had a none white bishop for awhile if ever. not too many to chose from though. (i include spanish as white)

[Moksha]

This is a little off the beaten path, but whenever a black member or visitor has come to our ward, people have gone out of their way to be friendly and greet them. The most friendly and the best greeters have been the Seniors in the ward.