But church leaders nevertheless began practicing polygamy in the 1840s , particularly members of the Quorum of the Twelve .
Joseph Smith publicly condemned polygamy , denied his involvement in it , and participants were excommunicated , as church records and publications reflect .
But church leaders began practicing polygamy in the 1840s , particularly members of the Quorum of the Twelve .
Joseph Smith publicly condemned polygamy , denied his involvement in it , and participants were excommunicated , as church records and publications reflect .