Media Relations, African-American Affairs
Southern California Public Affairs Council
At the African-American Affairs Council fireside on May 21, presented in association with the Southern California Public Affairs Council, Brother Ronald McClain delivered a talk titled “The Importance of Being a Difference-Maker.” Brother McClain currently serves as the Minority Relations Specialist for the Northern California Public Affairs Committee and he is a sealer in the Oakland Temple. His presentation addressed the distinctions between Church culture and the gospel.Brother McClain implored us to examine where we are and what we are doing in our Church communities to be difference-makers. He identified several challenges that he has had to face as a Black member of the Church. Speaking of the Church community, he said, “If you’re different, you’re always going to be sensitive to how you are regarded, sensitive to how you are received.”
He reminded us of President Hinckley’s remarks from April General Conference: “Racial strife still lifts its ugly head. I am advised that even right here among us there is some of this. . . .I have recognized and spoken a number of times on the diversity we see in our society. It is all about us and we must make an effort to accommodate that diversity.” According to Brother McClain, one of the challenges the Church faces is the speed at which changes are being made since the 1978 priesthood revelation. He said, “It’s not fast enough. Shouldn’t I see a rainbow of colors in every congregation?” He talked about the need for members of the Church to focus on their overall objectives and not allow people or situations to interfere with their progress toward eternal salvation.
Brother McClain explained how every member of the Church can be a difference-maker and an agent for change in the Church community, and emphasized that our influence begins with our personal commitment and service to the Lord and His kingdom. He suggested ways in which we can make change from within: “Be and stay worthy, fulfill callings faithfully, be creative in fulfilling Church obligations, make a difference where you serve, find stretch opportunities, don’t let people dissuade you from your convictions, create a changed environment, and serve, serve, serve.” Brother McClain expressed his hope that one day in our church, all that will be seen is “the nature, quality, and character of our service and not the color of our skin.”