Brazilian convert stresses activity, not activism

Brazilian convert stresses activity, not activism

By Ethan Thomas

Deseret Morning News
Published: Wednesday, Mar. 5, 2008

OREM, Utah -- Despite being the first black missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Marcus H. Martins considers himself just another member of the church.

Last week he shared with Utah Valley State College students some of his early experiences while growing up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as a member of the church. His reflections focused on the 30th anniversary of the lifting of the priesthood restriction for those of African descent.

"I see myself as an ordinary member of the church who, for the past 36 years, has had some extraordinary experiences," said Martins.

Martins and his family were baptized in 1972, six years before the restriction was lifted, and were wholeheartedly involved in the church during that time, even without being able to participate on every level of the church.

For Martins and his family, the restriction was not something that kept them away from what they believed in.

"Our faith led us to know that racial concerns were secondary and temporary," he said. "We sincerely believed that if we were faithful, God would put us in a good place in the next life, regardless of whether or not me or my father could hold the priesthood in this life."

Although Martins sees himself as just a simple observer in the changes the church has seen over this time period, he does think it is important to examine these events because they provide us all with check points for reflection.

But he would be the first to tell you that church members should not dwell on the intricacies of the past that trouble those who aren't members as well as some within the faith.

"Nothing good would happen in the present if I kept reliving the past," said Martins. "This is why I always tell people that this is a time for activity, not activism, in the church."

Martins, who is now the department chairman for religious studies at Brigham Young University Hawaii, continued sharing his testimony by urging those in attendance to ask themselves the question: "Would we remain faithful if some of the privileges of our religion were withheld for awhile?"

This challenge seemed to strike a chord with many of the students.

"One of the things that stuck out to me was his point that certain blessings could be taken away from us, but that is no reason for us to give up on our faith," said Daniel Mason, an 18-year-old UVSC student from Elk Ridge.

Others were impressed with the patience and perspective shared by Martins and many others who joined the church during that time.

"It was interesting to hear a different viewpoint of how it all took place," said Javin Weaver, 20, from Provo. "It was great for him to have the understanding that he did during those times."

Martins has been a part of many changes over the years, and could be part of others in the future. But he knows that nothing changes the essence of what he feels defines his faith.

"Changes in the church happen because of wisdom and inspiration that is received based on the church's collective needs worldwide," he said.

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