Our Journey: A New Beginning
Established in October 1971, the Genesis Group was born from the faith and persistence of Ruffin Bridgeforth, Darius Gray, and Eugene Orr. At a time of social change, these faithful men sought a way to counteract discouragement and build a supportive community for Black Latter-day Saints. Named “Genesis” to signify a “new beginning,” the group was organized under the direction of President Joseph Fielding Smith through Apostles Elders Gordon B. Hinckley, Thomas S. Monson, and Boyd K. Packer to serve as a beacon of fellowship and cultural heritage. Today, we continue this legacy, celebrating over 50 years of faith and the ongoing growth of the restored Gospel.