Spencer W. Kimball
"Basically the [descendant of the Lamanites] is intelligent, affectionate, responsive, honest, stable, and is of believing blood. There is every reason to be assured that the red man will remain loyal and true to the gospel and the Church, once he is brought into the fold. We have heard of his traditions and superstitions, of his ferocity and wildness, of his degradation and uncleanness, but let us consider his potential, as revealed by a review of his ancestors.
"The Lamanites have believing blood, as evidenced by these words from the sixth chapter of Helaman:
’And thus we see that the Lord began to pour out his Spirit upon the Lamanites, because of their easiness and willingness to believe in his words.’ (Helaman 6:36.)
’…Therefore, as many as have come to this, ye know of yourselves are firm and steadfast in the faith.’ (Helaman 15:5-6, 8.)
"As many as were converted of the Lamanites by Ammon and his brethren ’never did fall away.’ (See Alma 23:6.)
“It should be noted that the Lamanites were often absorbed by, and were called, Nephites, when they were righteous, and it is true also that the Nephites when they rebelled and became wicked, were oft-times called Lamanites, and there was undoubtedly a considerable mixture among them.” (Conference Report, Apr. 1949, p. 106-7)