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# Mormon Matters

A weekly podcast exploring Mormon culture and current events.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://www.mormonmatters.org/blog/)
- [Episode 3: The Mountain Meadows Massacre](https://www.mormonmatters.org/episode-3-the-mountain-meadows-massacre/) - Note: Mormon Matters podcast is now available through iTunes. You can subscribe to the podcast by clicking on the iTunes button at the top right of this site. "This September marks the 150th anniversary of a terrible episode in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. On September 11, 1857, some
- [Announcing a June 2018 Mormon Matters Retreat](https://www.mormonmatters.org/announcing-an-october-2017-mormon-matters-retreat/) - A MORMON MATTERS RETREAT! “Understanding and Navigating Healthy Perspectives and Journeys within Mormonism” Led by Dan Wotherspoon, Ph.D. and Natasha Helfer Parker, LCMFT, CST With Jana Spangler and Jennifer White 1 – 3 June 2018, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH _____ Many of us find ourselves a bit outside the Mormon norm but still feel committed
- [ In the Shadow of the Temple by Guest](https://www.mormonmatters.org/in-the-shadow-of-the-temple-by-guest/) - A close friend of mine who wishes to remain anonymous recently saw in the shadow of the temple his story follows: In October, I was fortunate to attend the Portland, Oregon, screening of the movie, In the Shadow of the Temple. The screening was hosted by the producers, Karen Di Millia and Dennis Lavery. Prior to
- [Temple Recommend Questions?  By Guest Aaron Reeves](https://www.mormonmatters.org/temple-recommend-questions-by-guest-aaron-reeves/) - This morning I was listening to one of the Mormon Stories podcast and there was a brief comment in it about some of the old Temple Recommend questions. This led to me to think about the Temple Recommend Interview and what its purposes are or were and what may change in the future: but first some preliminary
- [Are You an Internet Addict?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-you-an-internet-addict/) - As church members, we have been cautioned about the internet: ease of access to porn, its mind-numbing addictive qualities, the lack of high quality content, the need to monitor teen and child internet usage. We have also been told to participate in online forums so that we can represent our own beliefs, and the internet
- [Psychology a legitimate field?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/psychology-a-legitimate-field/) - My brother studies psychology at the University of Buenos Aires. Some members of the church told us that a member of the church should not become a psychologist!!! Thank you for your comment! This is just not true. Unfortunately there can be those who mistrust the study of psychology and/or who believe that getting professional
- [How do I help my wife overcome sexual trauma?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-do-i-help-my-wife-overcome-sexual-trauma/) - I am a 50+ year old life-long member who is eternally committed to a talented and caring LDS woman and our 30+ year temple marriage. We have struggled with intimacy and sexual dysfunction our entire marriage. Not withstanding that we were chaste during our dating and short engagement, there seemed to be passion in our
- [Why is no one addressing women watching porn?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-is-noone-addressing-women-watching-porn/) - The only time porn is brought up is in the Priesthood session. I'm positive a lot of girls grow up not even realizing that some of what they're engaging in is wrong because it's never brought to the attention of women, particularly when they're young girls and teenagers. The YW manuals never once mention any
- [How forthright should parents be about their past transgressions with their children?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-forthright-should-parents-be-about-their-past-transgressions-with-their-children/) - How forthright do you think parents should be about their past transgressions with their children? What about when a teenager or young adult is struggling with issues that a parent struggled with (word of wisdom, sexual immorality, etc.) is seeking empathy and guidance from a parent? Should the parent disclose what they'd been through for
- [Richard Dutcher's Spiritual Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/richard-dutchers-faith-journey/) - Mormon Stories podcast just published a 4-part interview with filmmaker Richard Dutcher, conducted by Dan Wotherspoon. This is the final portion, where Richard discusses his own spiritual journey. Please support Richard's lastest film Triptych by donating here, and by purchasing his DVD collection here.
- [Sexual Naivete - pros and cons? ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sexual-naivete-pros-and-cons/) - The following question is one I recently received on my blog that I have not answered yet. Who wants to help me out? What advice would you give? I'm a pretty naive Mormon girl, raised in a super conservative environment. I have a boyfriend and I'm just discovering kissing, but since I know next to
- [Erotica versus Pornography...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/erotica-versus-pornography/) - Seeing as how we are doing some restructuring at Mormon Matters, I am going to take advantage of this "space" to encourage communication around issues and questions that often come up on my blog. Because sexuality represents such a high percentage of what I'm being asked about by LDS members, I am currently working on
- [Looking for a Few New Collaborators/Writers/Podcasters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/looking-for-new-collaborators-on-mormon-matters/) - Mormon Matters is looking for a few new collaborators to re-work the design and purpose/mission of the blog. We are basically considering 2 things: Bringing back the weekly panel podcast format, adding in live calls from listeners to the mix (like we've done a few times on Mormon Stories), and Looking to turn Mormon Matters
- [Mormon Therapist on Stress Affecting Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-stress-affecting-marriage/) - My husband and I have been married for 15 years and we have 7 children. We obviously have had a healthy sexual relationship and we are best friends. We do everything together. I need to be a stay at home mom, with no options for childcare ($ + 7 kids). About a year ago, my
- [Undo](https://www.mormonmatters.org/elder-marlin-jensen-apologizes-for-proposition-8/) - This post has been removed, along w/ all comments. It was found to be totally objectionable by virtually everyone: believers and unbelievers alike....including most of the perma-bloggers on this blog. What a disaster. The Management P.S. For a first-hand account of the meeting w/ Elder Marlin Jensen, click here.
- [God is a What?! Part Two](https://www.mormonmatters.org/god-is-a-what-part-two-2/) - When you think of God, do you envision? a proper English gentleman a modernized Biblical patriarch an erudite English professor at a Ivy league university a tame Lion (returning to the C. S. Lewis reference)? Do you recreate God in your own idealized image? There is a constant assumption in much of what I read
- [What do you think of a Mosque at Ground Zero?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-do-you-think-of-a-mosque-at-ground-zero/) - I posted this at my blog, but wanted to see reactions here at MM. Over the past few weeks, I have driven by a billboard titled "Remember 9/11" with an image of the collapsed World Trade Center. In smaller print on the right, it said "Stand up and be heard. No mosque at ground zero." You
- [Teaching From the Manuals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/teaching-from-the-manuals/) - Mormon Heretic’s blog post this week, Comparing Correlation with the Supreme Court, inspired me to find out, or try to find, exactly what the manuals and LDS leaders say about teaching lessons from the church-provided lesson manuals. A survey of the manuals and talks as well as the Sunday School website will lead one to
- [6 Interpretations of Isaiah that Should Not be Perpetuated](https://www.mormonmatters.org/6-interpretations-of-isaiah-that-should-not-be-perpetuated/) - OT SS Lesson #36 LDS Sunday School students will soon take a quick leap through 66 chapters of Isaiah in five forty-minute lessons. All too often, some uniquely Mormon interpretations are given to these chapters which merit a critical analysis. In this post I present six Mormonisms often used with the first few chapters of
- [Best & Worst of Mormonism: Mission Experiences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/best-worst-mission-experiences/) - Right up there with primary, this is a sacred cow for me - perfect for this series. I’ll list off my own best and worst experiences, and you can do the same in the comments! Worst: The MTC: For the first few weeks I didn’t want to be there, and for the last few weeks
- [Am I my brother’s keeper?  Undocumented workers and illegal aliens](https://www.mormonmatters.org/am-i-my-brother’s-keeper-undocumented-workers-and-illegal-aliens/) - My general experience with illegal aliens is similar to the one called to mind by George Bush: people who at great risk and significant hardship have sacrificed and done what they could to provide a better life for their children. It is tempered by my wife’s experience providing anesthesia to family oriented young women who
- [Mormon Therapist on Sexless Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-sexless-marriage/) - My wife never touches me... I am quite frustrated in my marriage and it stems from issues of sex and intimacy. I have been married for 15 years, and we have four children, the youngest just started Kindergarten. My marriage has devolved into almost a roommate situation. My wife has no interest in sex, and
- [What if somebody is watching me?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-if-somebody-is-watching-me/) - Firetag has brought up some things that are dual** -- that is they are contradictory things at the same time. The classic example is that light is both a particle and a wave. Some times in the scriptures when we see things like that we have a "blind men and the elephant" situation, but sometimes
- [The Blog that Ate Religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-blog-that-ate-religion/) - "The Blob" was one of those horror movies from the 1950's that I, as a young boy, found right on the boundary of "too scary to watch". The blob that consumed everything you saw as safe was scary, to be sure, but at least, at the end, a young Steve McQueen could save the day.
- [Your Opinion is Wrong!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/your-opinion-is-wrong/) - Since I was a teenager, I noticed when people discussed an issue or topic that was contentious and heated, the typical style was to attack the person and not the topic. This is called argumentum ad hominem. As I became slightly more sophisticated, I realized that, in many cases, one was not simply attacking the
- [Renee Olson just died](https://www.mormonmatters.org/renee-olson-just-died/) - Her death was sudden and unexpected. For more about her: http://www.blacklds.org/renee-olson-full-testimony Her Facebook memorial page here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Renee-Olson-memorial/158092054201230 She will be missed.
- [Even beyond idle speculation -- the worst things you've ever heard at Church?  ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/even-beyond-idle-speculation-the-worst-things-youve-ever-heard-at-church/) - I still remember a meeting where the speaker said "I was never part of your organization and knew nothing about it until I was called to be in charge of it, now I appreciate how important it is" followed up by a couple tone deaf comments about the organization. She quite successfully got the point
- [Coke, Rum Cake, and President McKay](https://www.mormonmatters.org/coke-rum-cake-and-president-mckay/) - I just started reading Greg Prince's book, David O McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism. It's been a great read so far. Prince tells some interesting stories about President McKay and the Word of Wisdom. BYU has banned caffeinated soft drinks on campus for years. I work for a few large national cable tv
- [Mormon Therapist on "Are two parents better for kids?"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/12735/) - I'd like to see your reply to this: http://www.cupblog.org/?p=742 Are two parents better for kids? I completely agree that stability is a pivotal part of providing a positive upbringing for children. There are many single parents doing a wonderful job of this. There are also many two-parent families in which stability lacks due to a
- [Mental Illness and Suicide](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mental-illness-and-suicide/) - My sister recommended that I should listen to John L Lund's three-talk set called How to Hug a Teenage Porcupine. This isn't the normal type of talk that I listen to because these talks often seem simplistic and syrupy. While there was plenty of syrup, I thought Brother Lund had some interesting insights that I
- [Comparing Correlation with the Supreme Court](https://www.mormonmatters.org/comparing-correlation-with-the-supreme-court/) - As I mentioned before, I am enjoying Greg Prince’s biography of David O McKay. Under the McKay Administration, correlation of LDS church materials made a great deal of headway. While correlation has cut down on duplication of church materials, it has become a bit unwieldy. I found a quote by Paul Dunn that discussed how
- [Sorrowing for Korihor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sorrowing-for-korihor/) - Mormon Heretic's post on forgiveness from a few weeks ago touched me deeply, but I needed time to get my thoughts together about it before I could respond. I once had the neighbor from hell. I use the expression with theological intent. Smart and relentlessly treacherous, he was somewhere on the spectrum from malignant narcissist
- [the Authority of Paul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-authority-of-paul/) - For some reason, I was thinking about the structure of the New Testament Church after the ascension of the Savior. What is clear is that Peter is the Chief Apostle and the one left in charge by Christ. By LDS theology, Peter held the Keys of the Kingdom as “President of the Church" although two
- [Duality, Doctrine and When Less is More](https://www.mormonmatters.org/duality-doctrine-and-when-less-is-more/) - D&C Section 77 and its companion section 113 have an interesting history. An "older" high priest was publicly debating with local ministers about doctrine and was winning the debates. Local church leaders felt he was espousing false doctrine and decided to excommunicate him. At his trial he had a surprise advocate who spoke passionately in
- [all decisions are emotional](https://www.mormonmatters.org/all-decisions-are-emotional/) - I always have to laugh when people claim we Mormons (or even believers in general) make our decisions based on "feelings." What they don't realize, is EVERYONE makes EVERY decision, at least in part (and often mostly) due to their feelings. Without emotions, we are literally not capable of making decisions. No amount of logical
- [Mormon Therapist on "My husband is homosexual."](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-my-husband-is-homosexual/) - Several years ago, my husband confirmed my worst nightmare. He sat down and said that he is homosexual and receiving counseling. He has suffered from addiction to pornography and has battled it all of his life. Now, years later, I am unable to confide in him or be intimate with him. He doesn't try either
- [Duality and Divinity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/duality-and-divinity/) - In both theology and religion, there is a concept called “dualism”, which — to avoid confusion later — I’ll note now has nothing much to do with “duality” as understood within modern physics. The former concept involves the notion that there are two aspects of reality which may either be diametrically opposed, mutually inconsistent, balanced
- [Job, Healing and Elder Oaks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/job-healing-and-elder-oaks/) - Elder Oaks General Conference talk on healing has ended up as one of the talks widely used for an alternate week priesthood and relief society lesson. I almost got derailed into posting about the Book of Job and neo-Calvinism (the rich get that way because of the grace of God rewarding them for their merit,
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Modesty & Chastity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-modesty-chastity/) - We’ve explored some of the answers members have posted on the mormon.org site in the church’s new profiles campaign. So far, we’ve discussed member answers to questions about polygamy, women& the priesthood, politics, parenting, prophets, and priesthood ban. Today, let’s see what members had to say about chastity & modesty. Here’s the FAQ: How are modesty and
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Race Restrictions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-race-restrictions/) - We’ve explored some of the answers members have posted on the mormon.org site in the church’s new profiles campaign. So far, we’ve discussed member answers to questions about polygamy, women& the priesthood, politics, parenting, and prophets. Today, let’s see what members had to say about priesthood & race restrictions. Here’s the FAQ: Are there restrictions based on
- [Mormon Bishop Killed at Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-bishop-killed-at-church/) - There was very sad news from Visalia, California on Sunday. A mentally ill man named Kenneth Ward walked into a church looking for a leader. Members pointed him to a Bishop Clay Sannar, father of 6. Ward shot Bishop Sanner, and then fled. A few minutes later, he called police, confessing to the crime. As
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Homosexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-homosexuality/) - We've explored some of the answers members have posted on the mormon.org site in the church's new profiles campaign. So far, we've discussed member answers to questions about polygamy, priesthood, politics, parenting, and prophets. Today, let's see what members had to say about the church's stance on homosexuality. Heaven help us! Here's the question: What is
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Prophets](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-prophets/) - We've explored some of the answers members have posted on the mormon.org site in the church's new profiles campaign. So far, we've discussed member answers to questions about polygamy, priesthood, politics, and parenting. Today, let's see what members had to say about prophets. Here's the question: Do you really believe there is a prophet like Moses
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Role of Husbands & Wives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-role-of-husbands-wives/) - We've explored some of the answers members have posted on the mormon.org site in the church's new profiles campaign. So far, we've discussed member answers to questions about polygamy, women& the priesthood, and politics. Today, let's see what members had to say about gender roles. Here's the "FAQ:" What is the role of the husband and
- [Mormon Therapist on Cutting Self](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-cutting-self/) - I first noticed signs of depression and anxiety when I was in Jr. High School. I am now happily married with two young children. With the help of counseling and medication, I am as stable and well adjusted as the next girl. My friends would never guess I had such a rough patch in my
- [Book of Mormon Geophysics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/book-of-mormon-geophysics/) - When most people use their rational faculties to test their testimonies about their religious scriptures, they tend to concentrate on things like history, archeology, or textual development. A number of writers on this site and elsewhere in the bloggernacle have far more expertise in those areas than do I. So I have to take their
- [Unsolved Puzzle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/unsolved-puzzle/) - A few years ago I wondered what it means to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I wondered: is it ok if my testimony dwells down to, "I really don't believe in all of this spiritual stuff, but from an organizational perspective, I believe that the church is great
- [What kind of "Mormon" are you?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-kind-of-mormon-are-you/) - TBM? NOM? Ex? Post? Orthoprax & Unorthodox? Deist? Liberal? Conservative? Orthodox? Fundamentalist? Faithful? I'm not sure what category, if any, I fit in. Sometimes I think categories are only useful or good for those who are doing the categorizing. I suppose this post should be titled, "Tell me what kind of Mormon you think I
- [Favorite and Most Difficult Church Callings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/favorite-and-most-difficult-church-callings/) - What have been your favorite and most difficult Callings you've had at Church? In some cases, they may be one and the same, but likely, they are different. In my case, my all-time favorite was the Stake Director of Public Relations. I only held the calling for a short time because we moved out of
- [Yom Kippur and the Symbolism of Jonah's Spiritual Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/yom-kippur-jonah-spiritual-journey/) - OT SS Lesson #33 If your ward happens to be just a little bit behind on the Sunday School lessons, you might experience the synchronicity of having the Book of Jonah read on Yom Kippur. This year, the Jewish holiday falls on September 18 (close enough to Sunday the 19th!) and Jonah is traditionally read
- [Ok, time to speculate on gender essentialism ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ok-time-to-speculate-on-gender-essentialism/) - There are lots of ways to start this off. I could start with the more than forty sexes of slime molds (why stop at 4 or 5 gender types when you can have 47 sexes). Or I could start with race and culture differences and variety and how they relate to sexual differences. Or how
- [Mormon Therapist on Internet Infidelity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-am-i-cheating-on-my-husband/) - I have been happily married for 7 years. I recently came across this anonymous chat website that lets you chat with a random stranger at the click of a button. It has become almost an addiction for me. I have problems making friends because of shyness, self-esteem issues but I am able to be freely
- [If They Tarry...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/if-they-tarry/) - D&C 137 records a vision of Joseph Smith “in the temple at Kirtland, Ohio, January 21, 1836. HC 2: 380–381. The occasion was the administration of the ordinances of the endowment as far as they had then been revealed.” [Preface]. There are 2 important pieces of Mormon doctrine to consider here: (1) baptism for the
- [Our Day of Rest](https://www.mormonmatters.org/our-day-of-rest/) - The seventh commandment, Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy (Exodus 20:8) seems like a fairly simple statement on the surface. But, in practice, its interpretation is as wide as the Grand Canyon. Depending on your faith tradition and your own level of observance, the Sabbath day can represent anything from complete abstention from
- [Where Have All the Revelations Gone?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/where-have-all-the-revelations-gone/) - Lesson 17 of the Gospel Principles manual in use today for Priesthood and Relief Society is entitled “The Church of Jesus Christ Today.” Under the heading, “New Revelation from God” is this quote: “…Since that time [the First Vision] the heavens have not been closed. Revelation continues to this day through each of His chosen
- [Sacred Space](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sacred-space/) - Today's guest post is by Joe Geisner. Over on Juvenile Instructor, Jared T. and Ben have done a wonderful job of reporting on the "Sacred Space" symposium held at BYU. After reading the comments on what the academics think of sacred space I reflected on my own experience with sacred space. The academics focused on
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Political Parties](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-political-parties/) - We've explored a few of the mormon.org profiles' answers to tough questions on polygamy and women & the priesthood. Today let's take a look at another topic not suitable for dinner conversation: politics! Here's the question members were asked: Does the Mormon church endorse political parties? This is the church's official party line that was
- [Adversity: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly](https://www.mormonmatters.org/adversity-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/) - OT SS Lesson #32 After the Satan figure is given permission to afflict Job as a test of his faithfulness, three of Job’s friends, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, come to visit him, sitting with him in silence for seven days. On the seventh day, Job speaks, beginning a conversation in which each of the four
- [Viewpoints, Part Two](https://www.mormonmatters.org/viewpoints-part-two/) - A viewpoint can change things. Consider Sir Thomas More, famous as a model of honesty, integrity and virtue. A man for all seasons and a Catholic Saint. He is also the man truly responsible for William Tyndale’s being burned at the stake for translating the Bible into English in addition to those he was able
- [The Mormon Therapist on Teen Suicide](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-teen-suicide/) - Recently a 16-year-old young man from our ward hung himself. It was a horrendous shock for everyone, as this was a handsome, well-liked boy. The young man’s family began immediately to say that it was an accidental death, but it was ruled a suicide by the coroner. Why does someone do something like this? Does
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Women & Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-women/) - Last week we looked at some of the cool profiles on mormon.org that are part of a new effort to make members real and accessible for potential investigators. And we talked about the difficulties of giving members an open mic on some of the tough questions. This week let's look at another tough topic: Women
- [Sunstone 2010 - A Feminist Recap](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sunstone-2010-a-feminist-recap/) - I really enjoyed the last day of Sunstone, since I was able to attend all day, rather than a session here or there. Don Bradley gave a presentation titled "Dating Fanny Alger", a bit of a play on words. I remember he gave a funny line to the effect of "By all accounts, she was
- [Sophia of the Proverbs and the Feminine Divine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sophia-of-the-proverbs/) - OT SS Lesson #31 Feminist readers of the scriptures are well aware of the passages in Proverbs 8 which personify Wisdom (GK Sophia, HEB Hokhmah). These passages affirm that Sophia was there when God made the earth and acted as a partner with God in the creation. This idea fits in well with my conceptualization
- [A New Church? -- The New Mormon.org PR/Marketing Campaign](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-new-church-the-new-mormon-org-campaign/) - Hey. If you haven't seen it yet....a new Mormon.org PR campaign is upon us...and all I can say is..."Wow." Seriously. Wow. An "independently minded wom[a]n". A priesthood-holding black man in an interracial marriage. Working moms (too many to link to here in one sentence). An apparently non-garment-wearing skateboarding photographer of partially naked women who claims that God
- [WHY our meetings are dull for some, and great for others](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-makes-a-good-meeting/) - Okay, so our meetings are dull. Complaining about it is dull. I've been wondering though, what about the wards that have better meetings? What makes them better? Whenever this topic arises, people want to toss around blame. Either the church or the individual members are responsible. After all, if the church is run by God,
- [I Admire Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/i-admire-faith/) - I admire faith I admire those who have faith. I admire those who have faith to believe I admire those who have faith in things hoped for, but not seen. I admire those who have faith in the face of opposition and ridicule I admire those who have faith to stand up for what they
- [Presiding in marriage and otherwise](https://www.mormonmatters.org/presiding-in-marriage-and-otherwise/) - Let me start with a true story, I recently observed and that resulted in this post: It is obviously a vacation weekend. The only member of the bishopric in town is a very junior second counselor. He spots a member of the stake presidency sitting in the back with his family. With a sigh, the
- [Resolving the Conflict between the TBM and the ExMo](https://www.mormonmatters.org/resolving-the-conflict-between-the-tbm-and-the-exmo/) - Today's guest post comes from Ulysseus, a frequent commenter at Mormon Matters and elsewhere in the b'nacle. His website can be found here. To take a line from Shakespeare -- a pox upon both your houses. The Ex-Mos and TBMs continue to argue past each other and never the twain shall meet. While the thought
- [The Mormon Therapist on Sexual Education](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-sexual-education/) - We have reached the point where we need to begin having discussions with our child about sex. Our child is 9. One of the major issues is what to teach them on this particular issue- masturbation. I don't want to condone the practice but I also don't want them to feel completely terrible about themselves
- [The Mormon Therapist on Confession](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-confession/) - The following is part of an answer I gave to a woman in response to a question dealing with "Do I need to tell the bishop?" I get this type of question often: Whether or not you want to discuss this with your bishop is your own personal decision. It's important to remember that the
- [Religious Archaeology and Evidence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/religious-archaeology-and-evidence/) - I'd like to discuss both Biblical and Book of Mormon archaeology. Most people believe the Bible is on solid archaeological footing, but that isn't actually true. Many books have questionable authorship, and many places remain unidentified. In a previous post, I discussed Questions about the Exodus: there isn't a shred of evidence that it actually happened.
- [Viewpoints, part one](https://www.mormonmatters.org/viewpoints-part-one/) - It is delightful, some times, to see how the LDS Church is seen from the outside. For example, you might be surprised that one thing many Baptist scholars respect about the Church is the way the Church is open about the flaws in its leaders and history compared to other institutions. Further, it seems that
- [Mormon.org FAQ:  Polygamy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-org-faq-polygamy/) - The church has initiated a new online profile campaign on mormon.org in which those interested in the church can "meet" actual members who've posted pictures of themselves, personal experiences with the church, and their own answers to a variety of questions about Mormonism. A few of those questions are on more controversial topics, and it
- [Hanging Out with Apostles at Sunstone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/hanging-out-with-apostles-at-sunstone/) - Sunstone has been going on since Wednesday here in Salt Lake City. It ends tomorrow, and I thought I would give a few words about the conference. I have been blogging here at Mormon matters for about a year and a half, and have never met any other bloggers here....until this week! It has been
- [Episode 15: Inoculating the Saints -- Listener Feedback](https://www.mormonmatters.org/episode-15-inoculating-the-saints-listener-feedback/) - Today Eric Soderlund (Equality) and Mayan Elephant join John Hamer, Ann Porter and I discussing their reactions to our "Inoculating the Saints" discussions. A big thanks, as always, to Clayton Pixton for providing the wonderfully inspirational bumper music for this podcast.
- [The Latest in the Prop 8 Fight](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-latest-in-the-prop-8-fight/) - This past week, Judge Vaughn R. Walker in a U.S. District Court ruled California’s Proposition 8 was unconstitutional because it violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th amendment of the US Constitution in that “Proposition 8 harms the state’s interest in equality, because it mandates that men and women be treated differently based on
- [Rules, Principles, Seeds & Shells: Part II](https://www.mormonmatters.org/rules-principles-seeds-shells-part-ii/) - Last week, I began to sketch out the relationship between rules and principles. For the CliffNotes: faith is a process of applying correct beliefs that enlarge our souls and enlighten our minds. This application process is best analogized to the planting of a seed, where the seed is the Word (and the various beliefs, principles,
- [Discussing the Temple Initiatory from a Faithful Feminist Perspective](https://www.mormonmatters.org/discussing-the-temple-initiatory-from-a-faithful-feminist-perspective/) - I recently had my temple recommend renewed and I've been thinking about the temple initiatory for women and wishing I could discuss it from a faithful, feminist perspective. Unfortunately, there are some obstacles which stand in my way of doing this. Number one, of course, is the proscription from discussing certain sacred aspects of the
- [Commenting Styles, Posting Styles (and you expected a Sunstone Post, didn't you?)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/commenting-styles-posting-styles-and-you-expected-a-sunstone-post-didnt-you/) - Ok, I actually have my entire presentation written down, and I could have posted it, so you could read it at Mormon Matters if you aren't listening to me talk. But where would the fun be in that? Instead, it is my turn to do a meta post about the bloggernacle. In some communities comments
- [Elder Brown Defines Political Extremism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/elder-brown-defines-political-extremism/) - There are a large majority of Mormons (especially here in Utah) that think the Church is wedded to the Republican Party. A very interesting letter was read here in Utah on Mar 22, 2010 as Utah prepared for the upcoming Caucus Meetings. Let me quote something very interesting from the letter. (The full text from
- [Why Do People Struggle? (With Poll!)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-do-people-struggle/) - Through my time in the church, I've known many who have left the church, many others who have seemingly never had an issue, and a vast majority who struggled with one aspect or another yet remained active (or resumed activity after a period of inactivity). What's your experience with struggling? I've observed 4 general categories
- [The Mormon Therapist on Making Kids go to Seminary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/12362/) - I am looking for some advice. I have 3 children. My oldest is a freshman in high school. We are an active LDS Family. My daughter is refusing to attend seminary. We have begged, pleaded, bribed, punished, fasted, prayed and are out of solutions we can think of. Do we allow her to choose to
- [Why Mormon History is Not What They Say](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-mormon-history-is-not-what-they-say/) - Our controversial guest post today is from Rock Waterman. Check out the original unabridged post at his blog, Pure Mormonism, so titled from his observation that the organic religion founded by Joseph Smith was nondogmatic and libertarian. A couple of weeks ago Jeff Riggenbach sent me his latest book, Why American History Is Not What
- [Pyramids-R-US](https://www.mormonmatters.org/pyramids-r-us/) - Last week I spent a supper hour (it took that long) reading an article called “America’s Ruling Class – And the Perils of Revolution” by Angelo Codevilla. The overall article is well worth reading to better understand current political debates, but that wasn’t what called my attention to it as a possible subject for Mormon
- [things that scare you](https://www.mormonmatters.org/things-that-scare-you-2/) - The best advice I ever received was about a month into my mission. I was naturally struggling to learn the first few principles of the first discussion in Japanese, and struggling to stay interested every day in repeating the same brief sentence to everyone: "chotto ii desu ka?" (roughly, "Hi, do you have a minute?").
- [Rules, Principles, Seeds & Shells, Part I](https://www.mormonmatters.org/rules-principles-seeds-shells-part-i/) - I sometimes wonder where the 32nd chapter of Alma would rank in a list of most iconic scriptures in the entire Book of Mormon. It comes up frequently in discussions, so I have plenty of times to revisit it. I think the reason for this is that it introduces a powerful image that -- in
- [Marriage Counseling: Waste of Money or Balm of Gilead?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/marriage-counseling-waste-of-your-time-money-or-the-balm-of-gilead/) - I'm going to go out on a limb here and suggest that most of you could use some good marriage counseling. Yes, you. “…do ye suppose that the Lord will still deliver us, while we sit upon our thrones and do not make use of the means which the Lord has provided for us?” –Alma
- [The Dullness of Complaining that LDS Church Meetings are Dull: A Rebuttal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-dullness-of-complaining-that-lds-church-meetings-are-dull-a-rebuttal/) - I recently read a piece by Jana Riess on Beliefnet.com “Why Are Mormon Church Meetings So Dull?”. I intended to write an extensive rebuttal on her piece because, frankly, I don’t agree with it. It’s not that I disagree with everything she wrote, it is the implications of some of her points I have a
- [Higher Criticism, my viewpoint and the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/higher-criticism-my-viewpoint-and-the-church/) - I first learned about higher criticism in the context of the archeological excavation of Jericho. The German higher criticism read was that Jericho never existed and that part of the Bible was a bad gloss. Perhaps if I had gotten the introduction the other way around, I might have had more interest in something that
- [Passing the Mantle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/passing-the-mantle/) - OT SS Lesson #29 The prophet Elisha is introduced for the first time in 1 Kings 19. Elijah has recently had his encounter with the 400 prophets of Baal and the still small voice of God on Mt. Horeb. On his way from the mountain to the wilderness of Damascus Elijah finds Elisha plowing in a
- [Songs That Touch Our Hearts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/songs-that-touch-our-hearts/) - Since yesterday was Pioneer Day, I thought I'd share my thoughts on one of my favorite Pioneer Hymns. Most of you are probably familiar with Come, Come Ye Saints. It was one of my sister's favorite songs, and she requested that it be played at her funeral. While I always liked the song, I can
- [Date Night: When your arguments are always the same… ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/date-night-when-your-arguments-are-always-the-same…/) - Do you ever feel like you and your spouse fight the same way every time? Almost like, “here we go again?” Can you predict how the argument is going to happen before it happens? Chances are you may both be caught in a negative pattern that may be common but can be destructive. For couples
- [Should Mormons in the Diaspora Celebrate Pioneer Day?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/should-mormons-in-the-diaspora-celebrate-pioneer-day/) - It has only been in recent years that I have slowly become aware that not every convert to the Church shares my deep identification with the Mormon pioneers. I have loved the epic story of the trek to the Salt Lake Valley. I appreciate its archetypal connotations. My heart thrills with the stories of the
- [Ergo the White Shirt and Conformity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ergo-the-white-shirt-and-conformity/) - A lot has been written about the oppressive symbol of the white shirt in the Church. I wish to offer a more positive view of this article of clothing. Like the clean-shaven face, the white shirt has come to symbolize the oppressive nature of the LDS Church to some members and, in many cases, former
- [Doubting My Doubts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/doubting-my-doubts/) - I've occasionally heard a curious phrase..."Doubt your doubts." "Be skeptical of your skepticism." I have wondered what these phrases could mean and of what import they could be. In the past, the sheer foreignness of these admonitions has been like a Langford basilisk to me -- I can't help but take the words in, but my
- [The Moral Panic Causes Trouble in Zion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-moral-panic-causes-trouble-in-zion/) - Kenny Ballantine is in the process of producing a documentary called Trouble in Zion. The documentary discusses the events leading up to the 1838 Mormon War in Missouri. It highlights the Extermination Order and Haun's Mill Massacre, as well as events leading up to these terrible events. Kenny showed a pre-release version of the film at
- [Find heroes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/find-heroes/) - I worked for a time on a project involving heroquests and myth structures. I analyzed historic, legendary and fictional stories and texts, rituals, narratives and constructs. I was once asked if I ever knew anyone who was truly heroic. Though I did not know it, I did. My dad. My father was guileless, with heart
- [Uplifting Non-LDS Music](https://www.mormonmatters.org/uplifting-non-lds-music/) - I really like music. I like just about every kind of music. I like to choose it according to my mood to help me achieve a goal. Perhaps it is to relax, or maybe inspire me. Sometimes it's nothing more than a distraction. Sometimes it moves me deeply in a very spiritual way. I really
- [Tackling the Mormon Myth about Alice Cooper](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tackling-the-mormon-myth-about-alice-cooper/) - If you're Mormon, you've probably heard the myth that Alice Cooper was a Mormon. Most of you have probably dismissed the myth as complete hogwash. Well, it turns out there is an element of truth to the myth. For example, his father's middle name is Moroni and his grandfather was an apostle! Yes it is
- [Mormon Therapist on Marital Differences with living the Word of Wisdom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-marital-differences-with-living-the-word-of-wisdom/) - When one spouse does not follow the Word of Wisdom but is not being irresponsible (e.g. drinks alcohol responsibly, drinks coffee or tea), what can parents in such a family say to help children understand and not judge the parent due to teachings they receive at church? Would your advice differ if the spouse is
- [Come to....Sunstone, Come to....Sun....stone.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/come-to-sunstone-come-to-sun-stone/) - The wonderfully splendid Salt Lake Sunstone symposium is upon us, once again. When? August 4-7 Where? Salt Lake City Sheraton What? Lots of thoughtful Mormon goodness, including: A plenary with Mr. Deity himself! Our own AskMormonGirl Joanna Brooks on several panels The Book of Job Our Voices, Our Visions: A mormon women's literary tour encore performance Glenn Beck:
- [Impressions of Martin’s Cove and Other Places](https://www.mormonmatters.org/impressions-of-martin’s-cove-and-other-places/) - ***Updated with Pictures*** This week, my wife and I took a short road trip while my youngest son was at Boy Scout Camp. We went into Wyoming and South Dakota, visiting the Mormon Handcart Visitor’s Center, Devil’s Tower, Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Each place was impressive and awe-inspiring. Mormon Handcart Visitor’s Center
- [Baptism of Fire and the Holy Ghost](https://www.mormonmatters.org/baptism-of-fire/) - Guest Post by Jared The objective of all who are baptized by water should be to receive the baptism of the Spirit. Otherwise, our baptism is incomplete. Baptism has two parts: baptism by water and baptism by the Spirit. (Please reread these three sentences several times.) The prophet Joseph Smith emphasized the importance of being
- [The New Mormon.org ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-new-mormon-org/) - Do you ever visit the church's website for members (at lds.org)? I must confess, I rarely do. It seems so...austere. And somewhat...inorganic. So, I have to confess that as a result, I rarely (if ever) visited the church's website for non-members (at mormon.org). I thought it would be much of the same, and I thought
- [Date Night: What is your couple sexual style?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/date-night-what-is-your-couple-sexual-style/) - I was going to law school. Coming home from a mission in Japan, I was going to get a law degree and take Japanese business CEOs golfing and get paid a ton of money. This fantasy lasted right up until I heard a tape by marital researcher John Gottman. I was captivated at how marital
- [The Divided Kingdom Today](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-divided-kingdom-today/) - OT SS Lesson #27 "Take an old piece of clothing," our SS lesson advises, "or a piece of paper that is cut in the shape of a piece of clothing and tear it into 12 pieces. Explain that toward the end of Solomon’s life, the prophet Ahijah prophesied that Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s 12 superintendents
- [The Mormon Therapist on Appropriate Sexual Intimacy in Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-appropriate-sexual-intimacy-in-marriage/) - Is anal sex wrong? I asked my husband to do it once because I was curious and he was more than willing to oblige. We've done it a couple of times and I have enjoyed it about half the time, depending on my mood. We haven't done it in a long time, but I was
- [Deconstructing Solomon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/deconstructing-solomon/) - We tend to remember Solomon as either magically wise or the one who fell from grace with too many wives. Of his acts of wisdom, most remember only the "split the baby" story. Of the wives issue, all people remember is "hundreds." But we rarely think about what the text has to say. Solomon begins
- [Strangite Q&A](https://www.mormonmatters.org/strangite-qa/) - As I mentioned previously, I really enjoyed the Strangite session of the Mormon History Association meetings a few weeks ago. Vickie Speek, John Hamer, and Mike Karpowicz gave some fascinating presentations on this little known group. Following the session, they answered additional questions, and I thought it would be interesting to provide a transcript of the
- [Mormon Law: The First Half of 2010](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-law-the-first-half-of-2010/) - By Jeff Breinholt On the East Coast this past 4th of July weekend, it was hotter than blazes. In addition, to heat, the arrival of Independence Day means we are halfway through 2010. In the first six months of this year, how hot is "Mormon Law" - litigation over the role of the LDS Church
- [Lessons from Old Testament Harshness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lessons-from-old-testament-harshness/) - Deuteronomy 6:10-12 seems incredibly harsh. As the Lord's people enter into Canaan, they are given cities that they haven't built, produce they haven't grown, and all manner of things they don't deserve, while the inhabitants of the land are wiped out. It is as if the only and true path to prosperity is to plunder
- [The Question Solomon Couldn't Answer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/solomons-question/) - OT SS Lesson #26 Our Sunday School lesson this week attempts to deal with the conundrum with which we are faced when considering that Israel's King Solomon, who was a paragon of wisdom having received this gift from the Lord, could make the decidedly unwise decision of marrying foreign wives and following them into idolatry.
- [Ralph Nader in Utah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ralph-nader-in-utah/) - Friends in Utah and in Surrounding States -- Seeing Ralph Nader speak (as a Congressional Intern) was a highlight of my life. He remains a hero of mine to this day. Our good friend Ashley Sanders is hosting a house party tonight for Mr. Nader (for those who can still make it), and if ya'll
- [From the Great Wall to the Bloggernacle With Love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/from-the-great-wall-to-the-bloggernacle-with-love/) - Clay Whipkey and I are in China -- and visited the Great Wall 2 days ago. As we contemplated what to discuss on top of the wall -- there was only one real option. We hope you enjoy. :) All the best to our long lost friends. We miss you.
- [Vow of Silence, by David Wilcox](https://www.mormonmatters.org/vow-of-silence-by-david-wilcox/) - I wanted to share w/ ya'll a new song from my favorite artist -- David Wilcox. It's called "Vow of Silence" -- and for me, it's a beautiful exploration of God's communication with us. Music and lyrics below (after you click on "Continue reading"). I hope you enjoy. [display_podcast] I'll keep my vow of silence
- [5 Questions After 5 Years – From A Longtime ‘Nacle Wannabe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/5-questions-after-5-years-–-from-a-longtime-‘nacle-wannabe/) - A cross-post from Nine Moons -- written by John Dehlin by request of Rusty Clifton -- in celebration of Nine Moons' 5-year anniversary. ========= Most of you won’t know me. I used to blog/podcast back in the day, but was never really part of the official Bloggernacle community (as defined by those invested in the term).
- [LDS Church News Says: "Use Proper Sources" With Gospel Teaching](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lds-church-news-says-use-proper-sources-with-gospel-teaching/) - (Hat tip to Michael Carpenter) This just in from LDS Church News. Correlation remains king. "A gospel teacher is not called to choose the subject of the lesson but to teach and discuss what has been specified. Gospel teachers should also be scrupulous to avoid hobby topics, personal speculations, and controversial subjects. The Lord's revelations
- [The constraints of agency: Your neighbor and your neighborhood ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-constraints-of-agency-your-neighbor-and-your-neighborhood/) - Albert Bandura defines agency is “the capacity to exercise control over the nature and quality of one’s life.” We have freedom to make choices, and we are responsible for (the agent of) what we choose. Exactly how responsible are we for our actions? What influences to make decisions? Home life? Community influences? Abuse? Emotionally dismissive
- [Cookie Cutter Church Buildings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/cookie-cutter-church-buildings/) - There was a time that each Church building, Meetinghouse, Stake Center and Temple was a unique structure, and, in many cases, very distinctive. For a while now, in order to save money, the Church has been using standard plans for its buildings. Caveat alert: Once you get outside of North America, all bets are off
- [Latter-Day Morality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/latter-day-morality/) - You may not be aware of this if you grew up Mormon, but the LDS definition of morality is rather different than that which is generally accepted. Morality is very easily defined to Mormons -- it means not having sex. That's all. End of discussion. Immorality means having sex. That's what we teach our teenagers,
- [Saw me in prison and came unto me ...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/saw-me-in-prison-and-came-unto-me/) - The Dallas District Attorney's office preserved DNA evidence. When advances in science occurred, they were able to retest many samples in cases where people claimed innocence. As a result, some men were freed. Other counties destroyed the same material. Those men are still in prison. The innocent who are still in jail we can sorrow
- [The Mormon Therapist on Interracial Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-interracial-marriage/) - Recently I've been in contact with a girl by means of the internet. We haven't met but plan to soon. I like her a lot. She has told me she loves me and wants to start a family with me. She isn't a member of the church but said she is willing to join it
- [Facebook and Marital Fidelity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/facebook-and-marital-fidelity/) - A Salt Lake City news report in early 2009 shared some troubling statistics. One in 5 divorces in Great Britain cited Facebook in the contributing factors that led to divorce. In Utah, there has been a corresponding rise in marriage therapists dealing with internet cheating. It has been reported by some members in various stakes that their
- [Understanding the Atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/understanding-the-atonement/) - The atonement is to Christianity what enlightenment is to Buddhism: the foundational concept. How do you feel about the atonement? I admit to some mixed feelings on the concept of atonement. I said mixed feelings. Let me start with what I like: I like the idea of Jesus as a lawyer for humanity. Having a
- [Eastern Orthodoxy:  Theosis/Deification](https://www.mormonmatters.org/eastern-orthodoxy-theosisdeification/) - Covenant Theological Seminary is a Presbyterian Seminary. They have online courses that you can listen to for free! If you pay tuition, you can get a Master of Divinity Degree online. I have found the podcasts incredibly interesting. I've learned some interesting concepts from class on Ancient and Medieval Church History. Session #23 discusses Eastern
- [When the Fourth of July Falls on the Sabbath](https://www.mormonmatters.org/fourth-falls-on-the-sabbath/) - Yesterday's activities began with a Pancake Breakfast over at the Church, followed by a softball game. We loaded up several of the kids from the Ward, my children's friends, and hauled them all to the beach in both of our vans. Arriving home at 5:00, we joined some neighbors for a potluck and barbecue. There
- [The Next Victim](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-next-victim/) - This post is by our guest, Leah. He is getting his temple recommend renewed. He has his humble face on. He has paid up his financial obligations to his children. He is going through the outward steps of repentance again, assembling the props he needs to act the perfect husband. But this time it is
- [Spiritual Guidance:  A GC Talk Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/gc-review-to-acquire-spiritual-guidance/) - I wanted to try a new feature - going through some of the previous GC talks to discuss some of the ideas put forth. I decided to start with E. Scott's talk from the Oct 2009 GC session: To Acquire Spiritual Guidance. This was a talk I enjoyed when it was first given, although the last
- [Song Practice:  Not Music to Our Ears](https://www.mormonmatters.org/song-practice-not-music-to-our-ears/) - “We have learned by sad experience that it is the nature and disposition of almost all Song Practice Ladies, as soon as they get a little authority, as they suppose, they will immediately begin to exercise unrighteous dominion.”—Fabricated Quote from Joseph Smith circa 1842. Today's guest post is by Matt Workman. I was in the
- [Best and Worst: Bible Verses!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/best-and-worst-bible-verses/) - “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you… and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29) “Happy shall they be who seize your infants, And dashes them against the rocks!” (Psalms 137: 9) Today's "Best and Worst" post comes
- [Free Will vs. Determinism...FIGHT!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/free-will-vs-determinism-fight/) - One of the most basic and fundamental premises of Mormonism is the idea of free will. While we take this for granted in Mormonism, in the secular world the debate is far from settled. In fact, the debate over determinism vs. libertarianism (not the political philosophy but the metaphysical philosophy) has raged on and on
- [Have You Ever Wondered…..](https://www.mormonmatters.org/have-you-ever-wondered…/) - A set of random questions to aimlessly ponder on a Friday. Why the Church building is called a Meetinghouse and the Stake Center used to be called a Stake House? Why our weekly Church Service is called a Sacrament Meeting with a Sacrament Service within it? Why we need to take the Sacrament on a
- [Approaches to Psalms](https://www.mormonmatters.org/approaches-to-psalms/) - OT SS Lesson #25 The Book of Psalms is one of the most beautiful and meaningful books of the Bible, and it is agonizing to realize that our Sunday School schedule only allows one lesson to cover the entire oeuvre. In this post, I'd like to outline several possible ways to approach a one-hour lesson
- ["As a new religion it is too bad you don't have a theory of  ... ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/as-a-new-religion-it-is-too-bad-you-dont-have-a-theory-of/) - .. war" a friend of mine said. " Once your theology develops, it should be interesting to see what kind of nuanced debates you have." "Well," I said, "we actually do have some doctrine and theology on the subject." "Then why haven't I seen more discussion of it? Or is it pretty simple, direct and
- [Faith, Knowledge, Belief, and Stochastic Theory Part 4: Finding Truth - An Optimization Problem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/faith-knowledge-belief-and-stochastic-theory-part-4-finding-truth-an-optimization-problem/) - In part two of this series I discussed Bayesian inference. Specifically, I discussed how Bayesian inference provided us with a mechanism for deciding in what we should place our confidence given all the information we possess and will yet obtain. This was all framed in the context of confidence. I'd like to discuss an alternative
- [The Mormon Therapist on "Honoring" our parents.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-honoring-our-parents/) - I have been depressed off and on for the thirty years since I joined the Church and almost ten years before that when I wanted to join. I was a teenager at the time and due to opposition and threats from my parents, waited until I married. Since the time my husband and I were
- [A Horrific Tale of Forgiveness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-horrific-tale-of-forgiveness/) - I really miss my book club, but I am participating in the Stay LDS Book Club. The first book that we have decided to read is Left to Tell by Immaculee Ilibagiza. It is her story of the Rwandan Genocide. I previously discussed the movie Hotel Rwanda, describing the events from Paul Russebagina's point of view. Immaculee has
- [Ward Cliques](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ward-cliques/) - Does your ward have cliques? Are cliques a good or bad thing? Cliques tend to form within the boundaries of a larger group among individuals most likely to interact based on common interests. While cliques can occur within any group, in our modern society of inclusion and participation awards, the term is often used pejoratively:
- [Priesthood as a Puberty Rite](https://www.mormonmatters.org/priesthood-as-a-puberty-rite/) - A unique aspect of Mormonism is that all males over age 12 can hold an office of the priesthood, and that they are expected to use that priesthood in service to both the community (sacrament, callings) and to individuals (healings, blessings, and acts of service). When the church was first organized, most of the offices
- [The Untold Story of Black Mormons by Guest](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-untold-story-of-black-mormons-by-guest/) - When I served a mission in eastern Canada in the early 90s, there were many things I was grateful for (warm boots, wool suits, fairly normal food). But above all, I was grateful that I was sent to a region with very few black people, as I was not looking forward to having to defend
- [Single Mormon Chick](https://www.mormonmatters.org/single-mormon-chick/) - Intro: Everybody blogs, right? Why not me? Looking for my niche, my angle, and the one thing that seemed to make me stand out in my corner of the world. I found it: Being single. And 40. And Mormon. In a family ward. In a town where EVERYONE is under 30, sealed in the temple
- [What if the Brethren decided to allow gay marriage? by Justin Perry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-if-the-brethren-decided-to-allow-gay-marriage-by-justin-perry/) - What if the Brethren decided to allow gay marriage? They'd have to do a lot of back-peddling to explain why they were suddenly in favor of something they stood against for so long. But over time, the church's previous "official" opposition to gay marriage would be downplayed, the Apostles who spoke publicly against gay marriage
- [Writing a Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/writing-a-life/) - "It’s the people who write, who last. If any woman out there has any inclination to to remembered in the future, the next few generations, she’d just better get busy and write out her story, her experiences." --Claudia Bushman I haven't been very satisfied with the writing of my own story. I wish I had
- [Mormon Marriage Ref: Bikinis, Garments, & Facebook](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-marriage-ref-bikinis/) - WARNING: Sophisticated readers have described The Mormon Marriage Ref as a painfully artificial and repellent reality TV way of solving arguments, as using incredibly silly black and white binary thinking, and as sorely lacking in nuance. Read at your own risk! Here’s the situation: Matt and Sarah are a young couple living in Las Vegas.
- [The Fallibility of Infallibility](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-fallibility-of-infallibility/) - The Prophet Joseph Smith said “ … a prophet was a prophet only when he was acting as such.” (History of the Church, Volume 5:265). This simple statement, made to a “brother and sister from Michigan” has invoked much discussion about when a prophet speaks for the Lord and when he is simply offering good
- [King David and the Doctrine of Blood Atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/blood-atonement/) - OT SS Lesson #24 The following statement was made by the LDS Church last Wednesday in conjunction with the execution of Ronnie Lee Gardner by firing squad in Utah. I see this as a misunderstanding or a misrepresentation of what was taught in the past regarding the doctrine. Mormon Church Statement on Blood Atonement In
- [Faith, Knowledge, Belief and Stochastic Theory Part 3: Putting It All Together](https://www.mormonmatters.org/faith-knowledge-belief-and-stochastic-theory-part-3-putting-it-all-together/) - In part one I introduced the problem I see with our current understanding of faith, introduced some basic statistics, and weakly drew a comparison to faith. In part two I introduced deductive and inductive reasoning, and showed how Bayesian inference leads to good inductive reasoning. I also gave a brief example of how this might
- [The Mormon Therapist on Parental Concerns re Toddler Masturbation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-toddler-masturbation/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the Church with 13 years of experience working with LDS members. Here she shares with us representative cases from her practice and insights she has gained from her work as a therapist. She blogs at mormontherapist.blogspot.com. I am LDS, married,
- [Official Doctrine vs. Personal Speculation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/official-doctrine-vs-personal-speculation/) - Mormonism, in its very short history, has a rich tradition of theological speculation. The foundations of the Church were based on burning desires to know concrete answers about the great mysteries. The existing answers in the early 19th century felt stale or unsatisfying as the world was changing and new frontiers opened up. Formerly settled
- [Joseph and Sidney: A Strained Friendship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-and-sidney-a-strained-friendship/) - The friendship between Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith is very fascinating. Sidney was one of the earliest, and most impressive converts, joining the church in December 1830. His training as a Baptist minister was especially helpful to Joseph, and he often preached many wonderful sermons. As time wore on, there were some really interesting issues
- [Mormonism:  Nature Religion or Social Religion?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormonism-nature-religion-or-social-religion/) - "God against Man. Man against God. Man against Nature. Nature against man. Nature against God. God against nature--very funny religion!" ~Dr. D. T. Suzuki. Is Mormonism as a restorationist church a "nature" religion or a "social" religion or something in between? First, let's clarify the terms: Nature Religions are based on the premise that nature
- [Wandering Mormons as Nephites](https://www.mormonmatters.org/wandering-mormons-as-nephites/) - More than two years ago, the Holy Spirit began insisting that I re-read the Book of Mormon. Of course, I didn’t immediately recognize the impulse as anything but a good idea originating within my own intellect. That’s what I do with anything – process it intellectually first. I knew spending more time reading scriptures would
- [So what is a Mormon?  What is a Feminist?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/so-what-is-a-mormon-what-is-a-feminist/) - To answer the question "what is a Mormon?" I found myself asking the question "what is a Feminist?" I was at a lunch. I was talking with someone who was putting a program together to support female attorneys and make them feel included. She was talking to several of us about how important it was
- [Faith & Doubt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/faith-doubt/) - Today's guest post is by Glenn. When I was at BYU, I got interested in the study of folklore – the way that traditional culture informs our understanding of the world. I worked in the BYU folklore archives cataloguing missionary stories – encounters with the three nephites, miraculous experiences (some easier to believe than others),
- [Faith, Knowledge, Belief, and Stochastic Theory Part 2: Inductive Reasoning](https://www.mormonmatters.org/faith-knowledge-belief-and-stochastic-theory-part-2-inductive-reasoning/) - Deductive reasoning is a form of reasoning in which the conclusion can be drawn directly from the premises. The idea is to show that the conclusion necessarily follows from the premises. For example: Bridges built using sound engineering principles are safe. The Bay Bridge was built using sound engineering principles. Therefore, the Bay Bridge was
- [Father's Day Reflections](https://www.mormonmatters.org/fathers-day-reflections-2/) - Stop to capture your answers as you read through the scenario. Imagine . . . You have set off to climb a mountain, in search of a fabulously rare stone. (1)What is your impression of the mountain as you stand at its foot? . . . After a hard search, you still haven't found the stone, and
- [Time to Study the Old Testament…Again - Part 8 – The Names](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament…again-part-8-–-the-names/) - One thing that has always intrigued me about the English version of the Old Testament were how the names, the Hebrew names, were modified away from a Hebrew pronunciation. Sometimes the names are close and sometimes not even. The key to pronouncing a Hebrew name or any Hebrew word is that he accent is always
- [Homosociality and the Friendship Between David and Jonathan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/homosociality-and-the-friendship-between-david-and-jonathan/) - OT SS Lesson #23 The story of David and Jonathan is one of the most inspiring examples of true friendship anywhere. Our LDS SS manual firmly places this lesson within the mainstream view of Biblical exegesis, presenting the two as strong personal and platonic friends. As I studied the covenant made between these young men in
- [Being heard when you complain](https://www.mormonmatters.org/being-heard-when-you-complain/) - I came home one day from Sacrament meeting and my wife had a sheet of paper, on official church stationary, titled “First Presidency Statement on Birth Control.” It had been passed out in Relief Society with instructions not to mention it to husbands. The statement seemed somewhat suspect, though I had a good idea of
- [Home-teaching and motivation: A view from an organizational psychologist](https://www.mormonmatters.org/home-teaching-and-motivation-a-view-from-an-organizational-psychologist/) - Today's guest post is by Benjamin O. I've wanted to write this for a long time. First I need to make a few disclaimers--one, to the best of my knowledge no serious research regarding the motivation of home-teaching pairs has ever been published. That's a huge disclaimer. I'd be happy to be proven wrong. Second,
- [The Mormon Therapist on "I don't feel safe talking to my husband about sex."](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-i-dont-feel-safe-talking-to-my-husband-about-sex/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the Church with 13 years of experience working with LDS members. Here she shares with us representative cases from her practice and insights she has gained from her work as a therapist. She blogs at mormontherapist.blogspot.com. You have mentioned the
- [How Many Mormons Does It Take to Screw in a Lightbulb?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-many-mormons-does-it-take-to-screw-in-a-lightbulb/) - Today's post is by Matt Workman. I waited backstage with my small troupe of comedians. One more act to go, then it was our turn to perform. Would the act on before us whip the crowd into a frenzy? Take all the steam out of the room? Perhaps overshadow our under-rehearsed sketch? The performance started
- [United Order vs Consecration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/united-order-vs-consecration/) - I always thought the United Order and Consecration were the same thing. I've been reading a book called Great Basin Kingdom by Leonard Arrington (former church historian) and learned they are actually different. The basic difference to me seems to be that with Consecration, one gave all they owned to the church, and then were given
- [The Mormon Therapist on the Color Gray](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-agency/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the Church with 13 years of experience working with LDS members. Here she shares with us representative cases from her practice and insights she has gained from her work as a therapist. She blogs at mormontherapist.blogspot.com. I think so many
- [The Mormon Therapist on Sex Talk](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-sex-talk/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the Church with 13 years of experience working with LDS members. Here she shares with us representative cases from her practice and insights she has gained from her work as a therapist. She blogs at mormontherapist.blogspot.com. My husband and I
- [How tech-savvy is your faith?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-tech-savvy-is-your-faith/) - I understand that we cannot text message faith. I remember hearing a lesson (at least a couple times over the course of six years of Aaronic Priesthood classes) about the necessity of humanity in faith and the Gospel. We cannot simply build robots (I believe one was named Cal...Q. Later) who regurgitate the lessons. And
- [Mormon Marriage Ref: The Johansen's Daughter is Cohabitating!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-marriage-ref-our-daughter-is-cohabitating/) - While the situation described may be common, the names, events, and dialogue etc. are all fictional. Here’s the situation: David and Sue Johansen have been married for 20 years. They have four children: 19 (girl), 15 (girl), 12 (girl), and 8 (boy). The oldest just finished up her sophomore year in college, about a two-hour
- [The Release](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-release/) - With every calling in the Church, a release comes at some point. With the exception of Apostles and Prophets, death is usually not the circumstance that warrants the release. There seems to be a time frame in some cases like Stake Presidents (9 years), Bishops (5 Years), and Mission and Temple Presidents (3 Years). Most
- [Equal Parenting:  Feasible or Not?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/equal-parenting-feasible-or-not/) - There was an interesting article in NYT about the parenting equality in Sweden. Sweden's practices are probably the most advanced in terms of creating parental equality, although they go a little too far for my tastes. As a business person things like 120 paid days of sick time per year for child care seem a little
- [You Can't Ride Two Donkeys With One Ass: Saul and Spiritual Rebirth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/you-cant-ride-two-donkeys-with-one-ass-saul-and-spiritual-rebirth/) - OT SS Lesson #22 Ever since I was introduced to the word "liminal," I have claimed it as my own. This word describes a threshold or a transitional position -- a balancing point between two states of being. For many years I have felt poised on the threshold between two totally different ways of viewing
- [Of course [fill in the blank] isn't worth trying to save](https://www.mormonmatters.org/of-course-fill-in-the-blank-isnt-worth-trying-to-save/) - We all know some groups are not redeemable. Democrats, heretics who think Christ can be your friend, those who abuse children. If they aren't redeemable, then they aren't worth trying to save? Or are they? First, to understand who can be redeemed, it helps to understand just what it takes. It takes acknowledging sin and
- [This is my Work and my Game Plan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/this-is-my-work-and-my-game-plan/) - OT SS Lesson #1 With Jeff's interesting introduction to the OT course of study, I'm sure many of you have peeked at the first OT lesson for the new year. Correlation really likes to start the year off with the Plan of Salvation, and OT year really lends itself to this if you start with
- [Mixed Belief Marriages](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mixed-belief-marriages/) - What should a church member do if their spouse is a non-believer? This is something that many couples encounter, either because one spouse ceases to believe or because one spouse converts and the other does not. What should the church advise these believing spouses who ask? What is the "doctrinal" implication in these situations? Does
- [Faith, Knowledge, Belief, and Stochastic Theory Part 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/faith-knowledge-belief-and-stochastic-theory-part-1/) - Faith has always been a perplexing topic for me. The definitions we hear in church, and in the scriptures seem to come up short. Furthermore, faith is almost always accompanied by a discussion of knowledge and belief. But faith is generally what is defined in the scriptures, and we typically just accept the colloquial meanings
- [Absolute Truth, Inclusivism, Lumen Gentium, and Emeth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/absolute-truth-inclusivism-lumen-gentium-and-emeth/) - Guest post by Thomas In C.S. Lewis' final Narnia book The Last Battle, there is a powerful scene of an encounter between the Christ-symbolizing lion Aslan and Emeth, a noble-minded worshipper of the false Calormene demon-god Tash: "[The Lion] touched my forehead...and said, Son, thou art welcome. But I said, Alas Lord, I am no son of
- [Best and Worst of Mormonism: Primary Songs!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/best-and-worst-of-mormonism-primary-songs/) - *Note: For my Best and Worst series, my intent is not to be negative for its own sake. Rather, I believe in balance, moderation, and critiquing personal sacred cows. Such is my love/cringe relationship with primary. I first heard the words “Janice Krapp Perry” in the MTC. Perry is the source of quite possibly the
- [Then I Will Believe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/then-i-will-believe/) - Our guest post today is by SilverRain, who blogs at The Rains Came Down. When Jesus was suffering on the cross at Calvary, those who put Him there surrounded Him to mock Him. They jeered, “If [thou art] the King of Israel . . . come down from the cross, and we will believe .
- [Are you sure you'd like to live the United Order?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-you-sure-youd-like-to-live-the-united-order/) - We had an interesting discussion on my Prayer and Politics post. (Unfortunately, we talked more about politics than prayer.) The discussion focused on economic policies. Many people don't like President Obama's push to "redistribute wealth". I made the statement that "the United Order was all about redistribution of wealth, so there would be no poor
- [Choice Seer, Spokesman, and Scribe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/choice-seer-spokesman-and-scribe/) - Guest Post by Christopher C. Smith Chris has a BA from Fresno Pacific University in Biblical Studies, an MA from Wheaton College in History of Christianity, and is pursuing a PhD from Claremont Graduate University in Religions in North America. In the tradition of Jan Shipps, he is a non-Mormon with a particular focus on
- [Bloggernacle Performance Art](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bloggernacle-performance-art/) - As an outsider and newcomer, I must admit that there are just some things about the Bloggernacle that I cannot even begin to grasp. One of the things that I totally missed out on (but which I am [very] slowly scratching the surface about) is the (dark) period of Bloggernacle history regarding the Banner of
- [Feminist Conference Matching Game--Updated with Answers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/feminist-conference-matching-game/) - Do you know your Apostles' wives? Bonus points if you can give first/maiden names in the comments. (Don't cheat--only make a guess if you didn't have to look it up!!) Katherine Jessop Christofferson[poll id="69"] Kathy Sue Williams Anderson[poll id="70"] Wendy L. Watson Nelson[poll id="71"] Mary Gaddie Cook[poll id="72"] Kristen Meredith McMain Oaks[poll id="73"] Mary Elene
- [MM Guide to What to Wear to Conference 2009](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mm-guide-to-what-to-wear-to-conference-2009/) - SATURDAY SESSIONS: Readers, we know that most of you will be home using the internet or other media wonders of today to keep abreast of General Conference. And if you're at home with the fam, by all means make yourself as comfy as possible. On Saturday, PJ's are perfectly acceptable. Here's what the well-dressed Mormon
- [The Doctrine of Grace: After all we can Do?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-doctrine-of-grace-after-all-we-can-do/) - The doctrine of grace is one of those things not very well understood within Christianity. While most traditional Christian denominations accept the doctrine of “Salvation by Grace Alone,” The LDS Church stands mostly by itself with a firm rejection of that doctrine. We believe that a combination of a belief in Jesus Christ as Savior,
- [The Paradox of Organized Charity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-paradox-of-organized-charity/) - Experimental ethics is an area that teaches lessons we may not expect. Some of the lessons make sense. Panhandlers working in front of a bakery are more successful than those next to an open sewer. Our peers affect what we will do. Someone standing around doing nothing makes it less likely someone else will get
- [Facebook Declarations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/facebook-declarations/) - Today's guest post is by Matthew Workman. I lived a few blocks from Venice Beach for many years, so I thought I’d seen quite a few surprising things in my life. But nothing quite prepared me for this. A long-lost friend of my older sister put in a friend request on Facebook and I accepted
- [Patriarchal Hierarchy and the Kingship Model](https://www.mormonmatters.org/patriarchal-hierarchy-kingship-model/) - OT SS Lesson #21 When we lived in Saudi Arabia a few years ago, I obtained a faculty position in the fairly newly-formed department of Health and P.E. at a university which was strictly segregated by gender. The women's side of the university operated independently, with our own female custodians, technical staff, professors and administration,
- [A Control Freak's Lament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-control-freaks-lament/) - I'm a control freak. Yep, both professionally, by training, and naturally. I like to be in control of machines, robots, airplanes, my life, my spirituality, my kids, my wife, etc. Some of this is healthy! Some if it is not. Yet, despite my proclivity to control I occassionally find myself in situations where I am
- [Mormon Therapist on Empty Nesting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-therapist-on-empty-nesting/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the Church with 13 years of experience working with LDS members. Here she shares with us representative cases from her practice and insights she has gained from her work as a therapist. She blogs at mormontherapist.blogspot.com. Is it common for
- [A Schismatic End to the Mormon History Association meetings.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-schismatic-end-to-the-mormon-history-association-meetings/) - I attended the Mormon History Association meetings in Independence, Missouri this past week. I thought I'd share some pictures. If you'd like to read more about the conference, here are some links to my posts from Day 1, Day 2, and Day 3. CoC Independence Temple at Sunset All trip long, I have been looking
- [Eternal Progress vs. Eternal Increase:  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/eternal-progress-vs-eternal-increase-a-poll/) - One of the distinct LDS doctrines is that of eternal progression: the idea that we continue to grow and develop as individuals throughout eternity unless through our own choices we stop progressing. But there are two different interpretations of this doctrine that both seem to be supported by authoritative statements. Are both interpretations correct? Or
- [A Memorial to Peace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-memorial-to-peace/) - "War, rather than any foreign state, is the supreme enemy of country and mankind. One day citizens will covet for this nation the prestige of being the first to escape the shackles of war." (Jessie Wallace Hughan, Founder of the War Resisters League 1876-1955) Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday which "commemorates U.S.
- [Church history and our quest for the Great Mormon Novel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/church-history-our-quest-for-the-great-mormon-novel/) - About two years ago, Carter Hall wrote an article on this very site comparing and contrasting the types of heroes that Superman and Spiderman represent, noting the different cultural settings from which the two were born and, consequently, identifying different generational appeals to the different superheroes. As he wrote: Everyone knows Superman. He is simply
- [How Being a LOST Fan and a Church Member is Pretty Much the Same](https://www.mormonmatters.org/3-ways-being-a-lost-fan-and-a-church-member-is-pretty-much-the-same/) - New Convert: “I watched them all back to back this year on DVD. And I’m very glad I did. And I’d do it again.” Dogmatic: “If you didn’t like the Lost finale, you’re an idiot! Literally, you probably just didn’t understand it. You have my sympathy.” DAMU: “After so many years spent on this show,
- [Toting to Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/toting-to-church/) - I remember when I starting attending Church that many members, mostly woman carried around large white cardboard tote boxes filled with materials, usually for primary or young women. I tried in vain to find a picture of one of these beauties, but they are no longer sold by the Church and nothing came up during
- [On becoming a [p]rophet (small "p")](https://www.mormonmatters.org/on-becoming-a-prophet-small-p/) - I often meet two kinds of people. The first has a voice that others hear. The other has a desire to be heard, but they don't know how to bridge the gap, how to become a prophet (that is Prophet with a small "p"). That is what this essay is about. Part of writing this
- [A Closer Look at that Virtuous Woman](https://www.mormonmatters.org/closer-look-virtuous-woman/) - OT SS Lesson #20 Sometimes I wonder how women in the Judeo-Christian tradition got stuck with the gender role identifications they have. The Old Testament doesn't include many detailed descriptions of women, but when they do appear, they are not what you'd think. To prove my point, I'm going to investigate two women featured in
- [The JST of the Bible and Early Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/jst-bible-and-early-christianity/) - Early Christian Theological Differences I recently read Misquoting Jesus by Bart D. Ehrman. One of the interesting realities on which Ehrman elaborates is that early Christianity was anything but homogeneous. More specifically, there were many factions, some heterodox, some orthodox, some in the middle. Some of the books of the apocrypha, gnostic texts, and other
- [The Mormon Therapist on Kids Talking Anatomy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-kids-talking-anatomy/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the Church with 13 years of experience working with LDS members. Here she shares with us representative cases from her practice and insights she has gained from her work as a therapist. She blogs at mormontherapist.blogspot.com. So here's a conversation
- [AZ Immigration Law vs. LDS Interests?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/az-immigration-law-vs-lds-interests/) - A recent article in the Arizona Republic highlights the negative impacts to the LDS church of the new Arizona law that steps up enforcement of state immigration lows. Due to the large population of Mormons in AZ (6% of the state are LDS), and the large population of Latinos (1.8 million, including many who are
- [Joseph Smith's Presidential Platform](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-smiths-presidential-platform/) - So, I came across an interview of Richard Bushman at the Pew Research Forum, about both early and modern Mormon politics. I've also been reading a book called The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power by D Michael Quinn on the early leadership of the church. I want to combine the 2 sources, and talk about Joseph
- [Prayer and Politics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/prayer-and-politics/) - A few years ago, I read a book by Larry King (yes--the one you are familiar with), called Powerful Prayers. It is one of my favorite books! Larry discusses prayer with politicians, actors, athletes, atheists, theologians, and celebrities. There are some fascinating insights from many people. Two people I really were fascinated with were President
- [Binding the Broken-Hearted](https://www.mormonmatters.org/binding-the-broken-hearted/) - Nothing is more painful than a broken heart. When this kind of sorrow gets deep into a person’s soul, all troubles are magnified, blessings are unseen, and it seems almost impossible to bear the daily experience of life. Getting out of bed is misery. Living is torment. A broken heart can cause such an intense
- [Does God Squash ETs: How Human is Human?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/does-god-squash-ets-how-human-is-human/) - Distinctly Mormon doctrines relating the physical appearance of humanity to God’s own “preferred” form grew gradually in early Restoration history rather than springing forth in full. Although there are references in the Book of Mormon to the Brother of Jared seeing the “finger” and then the full vision of Christ (the earliest recorded of Joseph
- [Reflections on Mormon May Day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/reflections-on-mormon-may-day/) - by Jason B. (Mormon May Day was an international response to recent statements by latter-day McCarthyist Glenn Beck that social justice was a code word for communism; and that anyone involved in a church that preached such a deceptive perversion of the Gospel should leave their congregation and find a new place to worship. Participants
- [Politicization of the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/politicization-of-the-church-by-david-h-bailey/) - Today's guest post is by David H. Bailey. I am concerned about the increasing politicization of the Church in the U.S. during past two or three years. I can definitely sense it here in our ward and stake in the SF Bay Area, and from what I can see the same is true in Utah,
- [The Death of McConkie's Mormon Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-death-of-mcconkies-mormon-doctrine/) - Last night on KUTV in Utah, an announcement was made which signals the end of an era. It was reported that Bruce R. McConkie's Mormon Doctrine will no longer be published by the Church, and that it will not be sold by Deseret Book. Since I didn't see the newscast, I'm not sure what reasons
- [Feminist Musings on the story of Jephthah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/feminist-musings-on-the-story-of-jephthah/) - OT SS Lesson #19 You are going to talk about the Biblical Judges in this week's Sunday School class, and the lesson's got it pretty well covered (including a discussion of the Judge/Prophetess/Mother in Israel Deborah, yay!) You'll have to let me know how your respective teachers covered her. But some of the Judges are
- [Truths that are powerful, essential, yet not always helpful](https://www.mormonmatters.org/truths-that-are-powerful-essential-yet-not-always-helpful/) - I once knew a woman who complained of her new therapist (she had been in therapy for years) that after thirty minutes he had interrupted and told her that her real problem was that she was trying to be the child in the relationship with her children and husband and she needed to face that
- [The Mormon Therapist on Effects of Pornography Use on the Spouse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-therapist-on-effects-of-pornography-use-on-the-spouse/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a member of the Church with 13 years of experience working with LDS members. Here she shares with us representative cases from her practice and insights she has gained from her work as a therapist. She blogs at mormontherapist.blogspot.com. I have been struggling
- [Inoculation, a success story? by Heidi](https://www.mormonmatters.org/inoculation-a-success-story-by-hiedi-bernhard-bubb/) - I'd like to introduce a good friend of our family -- Heidi. She has written the following thoughtful post. I spent most of my first three decades in the church by subscribing to the mantra that “the gospel is true, but the people aren’t.” What I really meant by “the gospel” is anybody’s guess. In
- [Tapping into the genius of youth in a church run by old men by Chris Jones](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tapping-into-the-genius-of-youth-in-a-church-run-by-old-men-by-chris-jones/) - Chris Jones is a 6th generation Mormon and graduate of Brigham Young University where he studied journalism. He served a mission in the Sweden Stockholm Mission from 2001-2003. He is currently living in Valparaíso, Chile and will begin a JD/MA program in law and economics at Duke University in the fall of 2010. Albert Einstein,
- [Church History:  Principles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/church-history-principles/) - There has been a lot of discussion in the b'nacle about what the church can do from a practical standpoint to address the thorny issues in church history. The current approach has been to: 1) keep the curriculum uplifting and free from controversy, 2) to never speak ill or contradict leaders of the past or
- [A Non-Historical View of the Book of Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/some-members-want-to-openly-support-a-non-historical-view-of-the-book-of-mormon/) - Perhaps the time has come in the church to recognize that some members want to openly espouse a non historical view of the Book of Mormon? My daughter Bethany and her friend Clare have recently gone to the Community of Christ Church. They enjoyed it and said the members were very open and friendly but
- [Sets, Meta-Sets and an Incomplete World](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sets-meta-sets-and-an-incomplete-world/) - We know we live in a fallen and imperfect world, that God has light and knowledge for us, both individually and as a church that we have yet to earn because of our failure to apply what we already know with diligence. We know that the outward form of the gospel varies dramatically by time,
- [The Repentant Sinner - Extreme Edition! (aka too many rules)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-repentant-sinner-extreme-edition/) - Suzy: Dad, I'm sorry I scratched the couch! Dad: It's okay, just don't do it again. 2 minutes later Suzy: Dad, I'm sorry I picked my nose. Dad: Yeah, we don't pick our noses or they bleed. 2 minutes later Suzy: Dad, I'm sorry I kicked the chair. Dad: Yeah, it's okay, don't worry about
- [Circumcision Rock & Roll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/circumcision-rock-roll/) - OT SS Lesson #18 The advantage of blogging the SS lessons instead of teaching them is that I get to cover the chapters that are totally skipped by correlation. (This one [Joshua 5] probably for good reason, but it deserves a mention SOMEWHERE.) Everyone knows that good Jews are circumcised. God instituted the covenant with Abraham, and
- [Should truth be simple, easy to comprehend?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/should-truth-be-simple-easy-to-comprehend/) - OK, friends and pals of MormonMatters...let's play a game. (You just can't get this at any of the other blogs, btw.) Some of you may have played this game before...or understand how it is played. If you do, then think back to the first time you played the game (when it was as unknown to
- [Pharisaical Observation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/pharisaical-observation/) - I wrote a post some time ago on whether they Pharisees were given a bad rap in the New Testament. It can be found here. One of the other bad raps against the Pharisees is that they were more concerned about the performance of the Law than the spiritual meaning of the Law. The story
- [Questions About the Exodus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/questions-about-the-exodus/) - For more than 1700 years, Christians have been looking for Mount Sinai, the place where Moses received the 10 Commandments. Constantine’s mother, Helena was probably the first Christian in search of Christian artifacts in the 4th century. When Christians came across a strange-looking bush at the base of a mountain on the Sinai Peninsula, they
- [Our MM Mothers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/our-mm-mothers/) - John Dehlin: I love my sweet Mom (Nan McCulloch) -- for a hundred different reasons. She's a wicked cook. A spectacular actress. A fantastic decorator and homemaker. She lets me come stay at her house at a moment's notice, whenever I need a place to sleep. She's empathetic. Supportive. Witty. Wise. EXTREMELY thoughtful. And smoking
- [What Makes a "Good Person?"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-makes-a-good-person/) - In the landscape of conflicting ideologies and differing theologies, there is one area that almost everyone can agree on: the importance of being a "good person." But what does that really mean? WikiHow offers: Philosophers have been debating what is good and what is not for centuries. Many people find that it's more complicated than
- [The Lonely Polygamist: MM Book Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-lonely-polygamist-mm-book-review/) - At the tender age of 19, a sister missionary handed me a Book of Mormon and challenged me to read it. The only thing I'd ever heard about the Mormons is that they were somehow connected with polygamy. My interest was piqued. I figured I could find out more by reading this book that they
- [Nepotism in the Church - 2010 Update](https://www.mormonmatters.org/nepotism-in-the-church-2010-update/) - To follow on with my post for the past two years, here is this year's Nepotism in the Church installment. To find the original post, click here. The 2009 update is here. Just to re-explain, I check the 2010 Church Almanac and Church News for this information. I have just been looking at General Authorities,
- [The Angel and the Ass](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-angel-and-the-ass/) - OT SS Lesson #16 The story of Balak and Balaam is a study in the marvelous complexity and richness of Biblical literature. The pericope includes five narrative sections, four poetic prophecies, and a fable (the tale of the angel and the ass). It also includes commentaries found elsewhere in the scriptures. When teaching this lesson
- [Looking for an Apologist to Discuss Book of Mormon for Podcast](https://www.mormonmatters.org/looking-for-an-apologist-to-discuss-book-of-mormon-for-podcast/) - MM Community, I'm looking to do a podcast series for Mormon Stories on Book of Mormon Historicity and DNA. I've approached Mike Ash to participate, and he has politely declined (I'm waiting to hear back on his reasons). I've also approach FAIR, and am waiting to hear back. In case FAIR/FARMS decide not participate, do
- [Church Vernacular and the Magical Worldview](https://www.mormonmatters.org/church-vernacular-and-the-magical-worldview/) - It is Sunday, and Mike and his new bride, Valerie, are up visiting Mike's family for the weekend. Mike is a physics major and has just finished finals. He is looking forward to some much needed freedom, as well as catching up on neglected chores. Although Mike's parents typically plant a garden each year, this
- [Reform Mormonism a Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/reform-mormonism-a-poll/) - I have recently come across a group called Reform Mormonisim. I thought their views were interesting and as I mentally answered some of their questions here I was surprised how much of it resonated with me. What I did feel in the end after reading much of their thoughts and material is why bother!! Why
- [Leavitt Alone, You Idiot!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/leavitt-alone-you-idiot/) - Our guest post today comes from Renn Oldsbuster, a somewhat passionate (!) polygamy sympathizer who blogs occasionally at The Fall of Reynolds. Okay, yes, I'm all amp'ed up about this one. Stupid David Leavitt has jumped on the anti-polygamy wagon again. He has taken on the custody case of a Juab County, Utah, woman who
- [If Easter Be Not True](https://www.mormonmatters.org/if-easter-be-not-true/) - I've learned a few things from teaching swimming lessons to tiny children for over 30 years. One of the most obvious is that some kids have a screeching fear of being put on their back. No matter how much you try to reassure them, they don't trust the water (or their teacher, or even their
- [The God of the OT vs. the Golden Calf](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-god-of-the-ot-vs-the-golden-calf/) - OT SS Lesson #14 Sometimes I have a hard time with the Jehovah of the Old Testament. I'm not always sure how much of the anger, retribution, and striking people dead for their sins came from Him, or from the interpretation of His will by the designated prophet. Take the Golden Calf story in Exodus
- [Wearing Pastel Pantsuits](https://www.mormonmatters.org/wearing-pastel-pantsuits/) - It was back in the 1980's, and she wore a pastel pantsuit to Church. It wasn't just any pastel pantsuit, either. This was a sophisticated lady; older, silver-haired, moneyed; and what she wore was pure class. She put all of us with our floral skirts or Mormon tent-dresses to shame. Because I was her visiting teacher,
- [Mormonism and Catholicism:  Who Can Mock This Church?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormonism-and-catholicism-who-can-mock-this-church/) - There was a great article in the New York Times this week: Who Can Mock This Church? While it was about Catholicism reeling in the wake of the pedophilia scandal, it raised a few points relevant to critics of any church. From the Op-Ed (you can mentally replace some of the Catholic references with "Mormon"
- [Prophetic Counsel About Sex Within Marriage: A Brief History ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/prophetic-counsel-about-sex-within-marriage-a-brief-history/) - Over the years, the LDS First Presidency has made various statements about sexual relations between husband and wife. Unsurprisingly then, Mormons seem to hold divergent views on this topic. But it is unclear which are the prevailing attitudes today because Mormons are typically tight-lipped when it comes to sexual matters. A review of First Presidency
- [How Progressive Mormons Are Actually Retro Mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/back-to-the-future-how-progressive-mormons-are-actually-regressive/) - In the year 2035, how will Mormon beliefs compare to previous generations? If "progressive" Mormons have their way, Mormon beliefs in 2035 will more closely resemble Mormon beliefs of a century earlier. Generally speaking, today's "progressive" Mormons are less-likely to believe obedience to authority comes above one's own personal preferences, less-likely to believe the LDS
- [A Rational Theology Part 2: The First Four Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-rational-theology-part-2-the-first-four-principles-and-ordinances-of-the-gospel/) - In my previous discussion of "A Rational Theology" by John Widstoe, I discussed two methodologies of deriving a full LDS theology in use during the time Widstoe was writing this book. We then compared such strategies with modern church apologists. In this installment, I'd like to discuss the first four principles and ordinances as we
- [Book of Mormon on the Baja](https://www.mormonmatters.org/book-of-mormon-on-the-baja/) - When I think of the Baja California Peninsula, I think of the Baja 1000 off-road race where people take lots of vehicles and cross the deserts in all sorts of vehicles. However, the father-son team of David and Lynn Rosenvall believe the Baja Peninsula (south of California in Mexico--its most famous city you may recognize
- [The Gospel of Mammon - Chapter One: Money Changers & the Great and Spacious Building](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-gospel-of-the-anti-christ-chapter-one-money-changers-the-great-and-spacious-building/) - A translation. Of an ancient record. Written by the hand of its author. [For an explanatory introduction to the Gospel of Mammon, click thou on the profile of the author: Lord of Mammon.] CHAPTER 1 1. And now it came to pass that on the Sabbath the Lord of Mammon did go up towards the
- [Limiting Revelation: The LDS Concept of Stewardship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/limiting-revelation-the-lds-concept-of-stewardship/) - OT SS Lesson #15 A scripture in the Doctrine & Covenants encourages us to "be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of [our] own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness." But I've noticed that there is a concept that is widespread in the LDS Church which tends to limit our engagement in good causes and even,
- [What the Golden Rule Does NOT Say: or, "Jesus wouldn't recognize that rationalization."](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-the-golden-rule-does-not-say-or-jesus-wouldnt-recognize-that-rationalization/) - One of my monthly New Year's Resolutions last year was taken from Matthew 7:9-12, a slight change in my original plan. (See here.) These verses state: Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a
- [Putting Things on a Shelf](https://www.mormonmatters.org/putting-things-on-a-shelf/) - People like to talk about putting things that bother them about the church on a shelf. Of course, the problem is that for some, the shelf gets pretty full and comes crashing down like Fibber McGee's closet. So what's on your shelf, and is there a better model for dealing with problematic church doctrines? The shelf
- [Raising the Bar:  The Honorably Excused](https://www.mormonmatters.org/raising-the-bar-how-are-we-doing/) - The church decided to "raise the bar" in 2002 on entry requirements for missionaries, effectively preventing those with a history of serious sin from repenting and enter the mission field. This reduced the number of missionaries serving (down from a peak of 62K to approximately 51K at a time) and the number of convert baptisms (initially
- [Brigham Young:  Prophet, Pioneer . . . Environmentalist?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/brigham-young-prophet-pioneer-environmentalist/) - Although Brigham Young is one of the most well-known Presidents of the LDS Church, perhaps second only to Joseph Smith, it seems most Mormons are completely unaware of his passionate beliefs about caring for the Environment. We owe Hugh Nibley an enormous debt of gratitude for collecting Brigham's teachings about the Environment and publishing them
- [Top 10 Reasons Why This Mormon is Excited About the South Park "Book of Mormon" Broadway Musical](https://www.mormonmatters.org/10-reasons-why-this-mormon-is-excited-about-the-southpark-book-of-mormon-broadway-musical/) - Yep. Those wacky, irreverent South Park guys (Trey Parker and Matt Stone) are up to their old shenanigans. They're bringing down the irreverence anvil once again with a mighty blow to the head of organized religion -- and (yet again) Mormons are the target. As if this and this and this and this were not enough
- [Casting Joseph Smith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/casting-joseph-smith/) - Telling the story of Joseph Smith on film has been the ambition of many artists for a long time. Joseph's place and influence in the tapestry of American and World history is undeniably significant, and his story is certainly one worth sharing on the screen. Each filmmaker who undertakes telling his story by dramatic medium
- [Is prayer a form of “deity panhandling”?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-prayer-a-form-of-“diety-panhandling”/) - I’m teaching the Priesthood lesson today. You may have had this lesson already; we may be a week behind you. Before I get into the lesson, I thought it might it might be nice to get some quotes on prayer. “There are two kinds of people: those that say to God ‘Thy will be done.’
- [Speculation:  Adam and Eve, Evolution and the new lesson manual;  where did you go?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/speculation-adam-and-eve-evolution-and-the-new-lesson-manual-where-did-you-go/) - In our group someone asked about evolution, the fossil record and Adam and Eve. Of course we began to speculate. Or at least talk about the alternatives. First, it is possible that we are all descended from from Adam and Eve just as we are descended from Abraham. Or, given that the Pearl of Great
- [Buttprints in the Sand](https://www.mormonmatters.org/buttprints-in-the-sand/) - Today's guest post is from Glenn. Some of you may have seen this before. I wish I could claim authorship, but no – it belongs to the impressive work of Anonymous. I came across this a few years ago when I was collecting material for my dissertation on Mormon Humor (which I never finished, by
- [What if the "Sunday School Answers" were:](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-if-the-sunday-school-answers-were/) - First, do no harm Be kind Help others I see nothing but good coming from praying, reading the scriptures, and keeping the commandments. But it seems to me that these things give us an inner focus, while a main thrust of Jesus' message as Messiah was how we treat others. Since our primary concentration during
- [The Gospel of Mammon - Chapter 2:  [SEALED]](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-gospel-of-mammon-chapter-2-sealed/) - A translation. Of an ancient record. Written by the hand of its author. [For an explanatory introduction to the Gospel of Mammon, click thou on the profile of the author: Lord of Mammon.] 1. And it came to pass that on that day which the Gentiles called April 20, 2010, the translation of Chapter Two
- [Kudos to the Church!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/kudos-to-the-church/) - We spend a lot of time in the bloggernacle analyzing, critiquing, and otherwise discussing the church and its culture. I think there is value in this for those of us who need this type of engagement. However, Mormonism (like many other religions) is a topic that few are able to dispassionately discuss. Some of us
- [After Action Report: The Community of Christ Did WHAT?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/after-action-report-the-community-of-christ-did-what/) - Headline in the Independence Examiner for Thursday, April 15, 2010: "Delegation Takes No Action on Human Sexuality Issues: Church Will Continue Dialogue." Headline by John Hamer on BCC on Thursday, April 15, 2010: "Gay Rights Revelation Added to The Community of Christ D&C" ---------- The two headlines above generally cover the spectrum of opinion about
- [White and Delightsome or Pure and Delightsome? (Cognitive dissonance 2) ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-will-it-be-white-and-delightsome-or-pure-and-delightsome-cognitive-dissonance-2/) - I’m 1/16 th Chippewa and don’t even look a little Indian! I figure from my knee down is pure Chippewa and for whatever reason I am pretty proud of that. In the afterlife if possible I would like that section preserved if God sees fit. Below is my Great Grandmother and Grandmother -- you can
- [Top 10 Reasons for and Alternatives to Viewing Porn](https://www.mormonmatters.org/top-10-reasons-for-and-alternatives-to-viewing-porn/) - Porn is a subject that irritates many members. Some wish it didn't have to be discussed as much as it is, while others think it doesn't have to be discussed as much as it is. (Maybe there are some who wish it was discussed more than it is, but that's a completely separate issue.) I
- [The Top 10 LDS Musicians You've Never Heard Of: Roxy Rawson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-top-10-lds-musicians-youve-never-heard-of-roxy-rawson/) - When I created Linescratchers, I began with a desperate hope that I wasn't commencing on a long wild goose chase. After all, the idea that I could create a website featuring talented LDS musicians who don't write LDS music was based wholly on two premises: 1) that they exist somewhere, and 2) they are easier
- [God and Mammon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/god-and-mammon/) - We are conflicted about wealth in the Church. A goodly portion of members are neo-Calvinists, certain that fore-ordination and inherent grace are both manifested by wealth. There is no conflict between God and Mammon because Mammon is God's delivery man. There are also many who assert that all wealth is really theft or luck. Any
- [Symonds Ryder and a Crisis of Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/symonds-ryder-and-a-crisis-of-faith/) - Once again, the story of Symonds Ryder has been misused to illustrate a point about leaving the Church over something inconsequential. Undoubtedly there have been Latter-day Saints who have apostatized from the Church over a small slight. However, the two tales which are often cited when warning of this danger, the Thomas B. Marsh strippings
- [A Rational Theology Part 1: Scientists and Apologists](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-rational-theology-part-1-scientists-and-apologists/) - While looking through the bookshelves of a close relative, I discovered a rather significant library of old Mormon books. Most of these books were published from around 1900-1950. As one who loves to read about all things Mormon related, I was the proverbial "kid in a candy shop." One book that jumped out at me
- [Giving Back His Name](https://www.mormonmatters.org/giving-back-his-name/) - “Have they not read the scriptures, which say ye must take upon you the name of Christ, which is my name? For by this name shall ye be called at the last day; And whoso taketh upon him my name, and endureth to the end, the same shall be saved at the last day.” (3
- [Mormon Vegetarianism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-vegetarianism/) - Brett Wilcox lives in Sitka, Alaska, with his wife and their four children. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Brett works with Alaskan adolescents in an experiential based wilderness program. Brett suffers from the delusion that his forthcoming fantasy novel will propel him into fame, fortune, movie deals, and the White House. Contact Brett at: brett@vpp.com
- [Sailing Single-Handed: A Navigation Guide for Single Latter-day Saints](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sailing-single-handed-a-navigation-guide-for-single-latter-day-saints/) - The following is an excerpt from Sailing Single-Handed: A Navigation Guide for Single Latter-day Saints, by Christopher P. Halloran. Every four years, a small group of men and women gathers in the Vendée region of western France to begin a three-to-four month sailing race around the world. Each of them will make the voyage alone,
- [Joseph and Muhammad](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-and-muhammad/) - I have been fascinated by other religions! The cultures, customs, and beliefs vary wildly from religion to religion, and yet, so many have common threads, stories, and ideals. I recently read a biography of Muhammad "Muhammad, A Prophet For Our Time" by Karen Armstrong. It was a fascinating read and I learned a great deal
- [Guest: A Survey of Mormon Culture and Belief by Matt W.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/guest-a-survey-of-mormon-culture-and-belief-by-matt-w/) - Matt W. from NCT has been working on a Survey of Mormon Culture and Belief. He has agreed to guest post the survey here. The final analysis will be over at www.newcoolthang.com so be sure to visit there to see the results. Ok, so here is our new survey, which focuses on Mormon culture and
- [Comparing Religious Observance: Mormons and Jews](https://www.mormonmatters.org/comparing-religious-observance-mormons-and-jews-4/) - I thought it would be interesting to map the religious observance of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) and the Jews. I’ve recently heard some podcasts and read some posts talking around this issue, so I thought, since I have at least one foot in each religion, I might give it a
- [Patience?  ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/patience-as-a-virtue/) - I have been thinking of a friend's sister recently. She methodically broke every chair, save one, in her parent's house. She was very large, felt entitled to (a) sit in unbroken chairs and (b) not sit in the reinforced "fat" chair. So, without any malice, but in accord with her feelings of entitlement and self
- [Temple Recommend Assumptions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/temple-recommend-assumptions/) - Maybe it was an upcoming family wedding. Or maybe it came out some other way. Have you ever been in a situation when you became aware that someone who had been endowed no longer had a Temple Recommend? Generally, in LDS culture, when you determine that someone doesn't have a TR, it's human nature to automatically assume you know
- [Conference Moments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/conference-moments/) - To get you in the mood, I'm sending some of my favorite Conference Moments from the past, in no particular order. Join me and share some of yours in the comments! 1. Neal A. Maxwell's Didactic Discourse Neal A. Maxwell was called as an Apostle in July of 1981, when I was a newly-called missionary
- [Increased Civility in Our Conversations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/increased-civility-in-our-conversations/) - On this Good Friday, I want to make a request based on a wonderful post I read over at By Common Consent by one of my favorite writers, Russell Arben Fox. It is entitled "Friday Reflections on Mormonism and the Cross" - and it can be read in its entirety at the following link: http://bycommonconsent.com/2010/04/02/friday-reflections-on-mormonism-and-the-cross/
- [A Baptism for the Dead Dilemma](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-baptism-for-the-dead-dilemma/) - Last January 2009, I wrote a piece "Stop Baptizing Our Dead." I spoke about groups who objected to the LDS Church baptizing the dead that identified themselves with their own religious group, mainly Catholics and Jews. I faced my own personal dilemma after my Mother died in March of 2007. While she and my Dad
- [Radical Retention](https://www.mormonmatters.org/radical-retention/) - Our guest poster, Jason M. Brown is a life-long 'Niblian' Mormon who grew up in Southern California. He served an LDS mission from 2001-2003 in the Dominican Republic, Santiago Mission. He attended Brigham Young University where he studied anthropology and international development. He is currently working on two master's degrees at Yale University in Forestry
- [What makes a good home teacher?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-makes-a-good-home-teacher/) - Nope, not April Fools. :) I have mixed feelings about my experiences with home teaching. My father taught me from an early age about visiting the widows, the less fortunate, those who did not fit in with the Saturday golf games. We probably went every month, and usually had a message, but we also spent
- [The Seder, Social Justice, and Leroy Jessop](https://www.mormonmatters.org/seder-socialjustice-jessop/) - OT SS Lesson #13 At a Passover Seder this week, President Barack Obama's message to American Jews focused on social justice. Obama said that the message of the Exodus teaches of oppression to be fought and freedom to be won, and that we all have a responsibility to fight against suffering and discrimination wherever we
- [Mormons and Dr. Laura](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormons-and-dr-laura/) - Dr. Laura Schlessinger is a radio talk show host, heard in the United States Monday-Friday all across the country. The bio from her website is here and the Wikipedia entry, which probably has more information than she would want you to know, is here. I will occasionally listen to her either over the Internet while
- [Joseph Fielding McConkie and the Lens of Literalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-fielding-mcconkie-on-the-literal-and-the-figurative/) - In a recently published book ‘Between the Lines: Unlocking Scripture with Timeless Principles’ (2009), Joseph Fielding McConkie tries to deal with the issue of discerning between what is ‘Literal’ and what is ‘Figurative’ in the scriptures. I think there are large problems in his brief account and I want to try and deal with them
- [Greg Prince at USU 2010 -- The Audio](https://www.mormonmatters.org/greg-prince-at-usu-today-audio/) - Greg Prince, author of David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism, was here at USU today. For those interested, I recorded the audio for both of his presentations. The first was delivered in front of Dr. Philip Barlow's undergraduate Joseph Smith class, and dealt mostly with the writing of his book (from a
- [Rachel and Leah: A Modern Perspective](https://www.mormonmatters.org/rachel-and-leah-a-modern-perspective/) - Last year, I posted a topic about Marriage Fitness. The author is Mort Fertel, and he makes no illusions that his method is a quick or easy solution to a better marriage, but he does guarantee it works, if followed. Part of the package includes a book with the same name. He has an interesting
- [Our Voices, Our Visions: An Amazing Night in Colorado City](https://www.mormonmatters.org/our-voices-our-visions-an-amazing-night-in-colorado-city/) - It’s the third day of the Our Voices, Our Visions Mormon Women’s Literary Tour and we’re making the long drive on the 89 through the western reaches of the Navajo nation into the red rock country of southern Utah. At Kanab, we turn south towards Fredonia and then west towards the twin towns of Colorado
- [Our Voices, Our Visions: A report from the road](https://www.mormonmatters.org/our-voices-our-visions-a-report-from-the-road/) - Monday night in Claremont, California, we kicked off the Our Voices, Our Visions Mormon Women's Literary Tour in the company of an audience of 30 Mormon women ranging from 12 to 80 years old. "This is an historic event," said event host Claudia Bushman. Yesterday, Susan Scott, Lisa Van Orman Hadley and I crossed
- [What Dreams May Come](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-dreams-may-come/) - OT SS Lesson #12 Whether dreams come from the unconscious mind or directly from God, they are valuable sources of revelation. Dreams can tell us important things about ourselves and our relationships that may remain veiled deep in the psyche if we are unskilled at interpreting the symbolic language from which they present. The great
- [Mormon Myths as Transferable Charisma](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-myths-as-transferable-charisma/) - Richard Bushman has recently given a presentation on ‘Joseph Smith and the Routinization of Charisma’. One of Bushman’s arguments seems to be that Charisma was located in the office rather than the person. That these divine or supernatural powers were transferred to whoever held a particular office. Moreover, it was through this coupling of bureaucracy and
- [Ask Mormon Girl hits the road:  the Our Voices, Our Visions Literary Tour](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ask-mormon-girl-hits-the-road-the-our-voices-our-visions-literary-tour/) - This week, I’m putting the Ask Mormon Girl column on vacation while I set out for adventure in the great Book-of-Mormon Belt. The Our Voices, Our Visions Mormon Women’s Literary Tour is hitting the road. It’s the first ever literary tour by and for Mormon women, featuring eighteen Mormon women writers-- younger and older, new
- [Brothers: A Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/brothers-a-review/) - What if -- as well as a description of birth order and an indicator of hierarchy -- the appellation "firstborn" was also a title? Could the Heavenly Father assign this role to any of his children? This is a question confronted by the audience of "Brothers," a new play which opened at the Covey Center
- [Charity: Self-Analysis Tool: Do I Vaunt Myself; Am I Puffed Up?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/charity-self-analysis-tool-do-i-vaunt-myself-am-i-puffed-up/) - My New Year's Resolution this year is taken from I Corinthians 13:4-7. In a nutshell, it is to become a little more charitable this year. I am studying and trying to practice one of the manifestations of charity listed in Paul's passage each month. This month, the focus is on charity "vaunting not itself" and
- [The World of the Self-Absorbed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-world-of-the-self-absorbed/) - Definition self-absorbed: /ˌself.əbˈzɔːbd//-ˈzɔːrbd/ adj usually disapproving . Only interested in yourself and your own activities (http://dictionary.cambridge.org/) I don’t know what it is, society, the culture, the sign of the times, whatever. But people seem much more self-absorbed these days. Now, I think all of us are a bit self-absorbed at times, but there are definite
- [Bednar Was Wrong About Facebook](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bednar-was-wrong-about-facebook/) - Last year, Elder Bednar gave a talk at BYU-I on a subject that weighed deeply on his soul. At the time, I read his words and felt a twinge of sadness. How could he fear something as useful and worthwhile as online social networking? Sites like Facebook have integrated themselves into the fabric of our
- [The Relational Definition of Sin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-relational-definition-of-sin/) - One of my favorite experiences at the BYU Studies Symposium was listening to a set of two talks on the subject of sin. That might not usually be such a fascinating topic! But these had a twist which captured my interest -- sin and its effect upon human relationships. Josh Probert, in his talk "Joseph
- [A Marital Confession](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-marital-confession/) - A recent visit at FMH and John Dehlin’s Mormon Stories interview with fmhLisa (Butterworth) has made me realise something about myself that I am not very proud of. Therefore, in the spirit of a post I wrote for another blog, I want to confess something. I am sexist. It is not intentional. In fact, I
- [Did God Create Evil?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/did-god-create-evil/) - Watch Here Isa 45:& I form the light , and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the lord do all the things. Amo 3:6 Shall a trumpet be blown in the city, and the people not be afraid? shall there be evil in a city, and the LORD hath not done it?
- [What I Learned in Nursery](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-i-learned-in-nursery/) - Many of us have been told that no matter what the calling you have, you will learn from it and grow. I imagine that's probably true of just about anything that you do. So, what have you learned from the various callings you've held? In November, I was called as the nursery leader. Here are
- [You're the Bishop #6:  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/youre-the-bishop-6-a-poll/) - Bishop Bill with a situation that happens to probably every bishop. Read on. You noticed that very few people are attending Gospel Doctrine Class. You have a pretty large ward, but the attendance in GD class is down to less than 15 people. The teacher has even complained that about how people are skipping class.
- [Bombshell at the BYU Studies Symposium](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bombshell-at-the-byu-studies-symposium/) - A small crowd at the BYU Studies Symposium yesterday was on hand to receive Richard Holzapfel's self-proclaimed Mormon history "bombshell." He presented the morning plenary session on Wilford Woodruff's 1897 recorded testimony, the first sound recording made of an LDS General Authority. The audience was treated to hearing parts of this recording, which is also
- [Time to Study the Old Testament Again Part 7 – Pearl of Great Price (PofGP) and the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible (JST)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament-again-part-7-–-pearl-of-great-price-pofgp-and-the-joseph-smith-translation-of-the-bible-jst/) - I realize this may seem a bit late as we’ve studied the first part of Genesis which included the Book of Moses and the Book of Abraham. But, based on my own study and preparation for the first lessons, I have a few comments to make about the PofGP and the JST. Selections from the
- [Book of Mormon for Modern Minds?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/book-of-mormon-for-modern-minds/) - Fascinating article from the New York Times about a new version of the Torah being released by the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, which represents the 1.5 million Conservative Jews in the United States. Apparently, this Torah openly acknowledges the historical and archeological issues with the text -- openly questioning things like whether or not
- [Prophets, Seers and Bureaucrats](https://www.mormonmatters.org/prophets-seers-and-bureaucrats/) - I listened recently to a Mormon Expression podcast with John Dehlin, in which he comments upon the difficult position the Church leaders face. He observes that their are times when they make particular decisions based upon a legalistic-bureaucratic framework that sometimes seem incomprehensible, even unchristian but that these decision are understandable. I would like to ask this question: Is there
- [You're the Bishop #5 (Poll)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/youre-the-bishop-5-poll-2/) - Bishop Bill again, folks. Now for one that has nothing to do with the ward. As bishop you have had a hard month, lots of problems, meetings, etc. that took you away from your wife and young family. Last Friday you had a date night planned with your wife, even had a babysitter lined up,
- [Dueling Wordprint Studies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dueling-wordprint-studies/) - This is the 3rd post reviewing By the Hand of Mormon, by Terryl Givens. I've taken a bit on an interest in wordprint studies. Givens explains wordprint studies on page 156. Computational stylistics is based on the premise that all authors exhibit subtle, quantifiable stylistic traits that are equivalent to a litereray fingerprint, or wordprint.
- [Jacob's Ladder: More on Faith Vs. Works](https://www.mormonmatters.org/jacobs-ladder-more-on-faith-vs-works/) - OT SS Lesson #10 Though it's only an "additional teaching idea" in Lesson 12, Jacob's ladder has captured my imagination due to some conversations I've recently had with Christian evangelicals. Jacob's Dream woodcut, Lubeck Bible 1494 The theme of the ladder to heaven is often used by the Early Church Fathers. Their interpretations of Jacob's
- [Joseph Smith, Brigham Young, my Mom and Dallin Oaks, a Convergence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-smith-brigham-young-my-mom-and-dallin-oaks-a-convergence/) - Joseph Smith found language terribly important, and was clear that no translation into English could be perfect because of the limits of the language. Brigham Young expounded on the theme a number of times, that all revelation that came through prophets, all scripture and all records had flaws because of the weaknesses of the language,
- [10 Things Every Mormon Needs to Know](https://www.mormonmatters.org/10-things-every-mormon-needs-to-know/) - In my view, the needed changes in Mormon culture do not require Church members to depart from their leaders' counsel. To the contrary, I believe the most needed changes in Mormon culture will occur when Church members "catch up" with what the General Authorities have already told them. In my opinion, one of the most
- [MYTHBUSTERS: The "One True Church"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mythbusters-the-one-true-church/) - There are a lot of myths both inside and outside Mormondom about the LDS claim to be the "one true Church." That claim is difficult for people of other faiths to accept for obvious reasons. But some Mormons may struggle with it as well because it may seem difficult to reconcile that claim with our
- [WWJB: What Would Jesus Blog?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/wwjb-what-would-jesus-blog/) - It's been a few months since I first came out to my family and friends. I'd been living a secret double life for too long, and I couldn't stand the duplicity any longer. As I've continued to come out to more friends, I've learned I have to be careful and selective about when and to
- [Church's (Official?) Position on Biblical Interpretation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/churchs-official-position-on-biblical-interpretation/) - Brother Jensen thinks the story of Jonah spending three days in a whale's belly is not literally true, but is a beautiful metaphor of Christ's death and resurrection. Brother Christiansen, on the other hand, insists the story is literally true, and thinks Brother Jensen is going to hell for thinking otherwise. Brother Smith believes the
- [Why I Am Not a Disaffected Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-i-am-not-a-disaffected-mormon/) - There seem to be a number of disaffected Mormons lurking the Bloggernacle these days. I am not one of them. Here is why. Feb. 24, 2008 - 9:05 a.m. My wife and three of our daughters are already at church; I'm lagging behind at home with a straggler. My six year-old still can't find her
- [Mormon Coffee](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-coffee/) - Hi, my name is Andrew, and I'm a diet Coke-oholic. For those of you who've never attended an addiction recovery group meeting, that's your cue to enthusiastically respond: "Hi Andrew!" It's important for you to welcome me and make me feel part of the group as I prepare to bare my soul and tell you
- [When Obedience Doesn't Bring Happiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/when-obedience-doesnt-bring-happiness/) - As Mormons, we are constantly taught and reminded that obedience brings happiness. So what are we to conclude when we're obedient but still aren't happy? I have seen Church members react in at least three different ways when they believe they are obedient and yet are unhappy. One way that obedient-but-unhappy Mormons react in such
- ["Knowing" & Other Leaps of Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/knowing-other-leaps-of-faith/) - I've been thinking lately that perhaps the greatest difference between Mormons along all points of the spectrum is not the degree of faith they have in God, or Joseph Smith, or the Church, or its leaders, but rather, is in the degree of faith they have in themselves. When it comes to the question of
- [What is Heaven?  What is Hell?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-heaven-what-is-hell/) - We pray. We read scriptures. We go to Church. We fulfill our callings. We obey our Church leaders. As much as we'd like to think that what we do is based on selfless, altruistic motives, I think an honest self-examination will reveal that many of our choices are motivated by our desire for an eternal
- [My First Visit to an Orthodox Christian Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/my-visit-to-an-orthodox-christian-church/) - Lately, I've been thinking a lot about how the familiar Mormon claim that we are the "one true Church" is as much a statement about other churches as it is about our own. And I've been thinking about how ignorant and uninformed I feel about other churches because I can count on one hand the
- [A Truth-Seeker's Guide to the Bloggernacle and Beyond](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-truth-seekers-guide-to-the-bloggernacle-and-beyond/) - Several months ago I received a telephone call from Armand Mauss, who is a member of my Stake. He was calling on official Church business, but I couldn't help taking the opportunity to pepper him with questions and pick his brain for about an hour. At one point in our discussion, he lamented the proliferation
- [Bad Apologetics, Meet Bad Polemics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bad-apologetics-meet-bad-polemics/) - polemics: The art or practice of disputation or controversy, especially on religious subjects; that branch of theological science which pertains to the history or conduct of ecclesiastical controversy. (Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary, 1996.) Although I am often entertained by bad apologetics, I am equally amused by bad polemics. I find it simply fascinating when I
- [Adam and Eve: the First TBM & NOM](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-adam-eve-teach-us-about-tbms-and-noms/) - There have been several attempts over the years to categorize Mormon "belief-styles": Orthodox Mormon versus Liberal Mormon, Iron Rod Mormon versus Liahona Mormon, and so on. In the online world of LDS blogs commonly called "the Bloggernacle", Mormons are often categorized as being TBMs (True Believing Mormons) or NOMs (New Order Mormons). One evening when
- [POLL: Prophetic Infallibility, Obeying the Prophet, and Being Blessed for Obeying the Prophet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/poll-prophetic-infallibility-obeying-the-prophet-and-being-blessed-for-obeying-the-prophet/) - What do active Mormons think their Church leaders teach them, and what do they actually believe personally, about the infallibility of the Prophet's statements about God's will and truth, about God's command to obey the Prophet, and about God blessing them for obeying the Prophet? These questions and related topics are explored in the poll
- [Do We Know How to Be Loving Critics in the Church?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-there-any-loving-critics-left-in-the-church/) - Several years ago I heard former Secretary of Defense William Cohen lament the sad state of affairs in American politics where, as he put it, "the Democrat and Republican parties seem to have stopped being loving critics of one another. Instead, we seem only to find uncritical lovers of their own party, and unloving critics
- [How to Provide Critical Feedback to Church Leaders Church Without Getting Excommunicated](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-to-provide-critical-feedback-to-church-leaders-church-without-getting-excommunicated/) - If you didn't happen to read the February issue of Ensign Magazine in 1987, you missed some valuable instruction about how to provide critical feedback to Church leaders. Luckily for you, this post provides a second chance to get up to speed on what all would-be "improvers" in the Church should know about how to
- [You're the Bishop #4 (Poll)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/youre-the-bishop-5-poll/) - OK, Bishop Bill here again with a really difficult situation. One Sunday you notice the missionaries have brought a woman they have been teaching. You notice right away that she looks very masculine. The missionaries ask to meet with you during the week and tell you that the woman they brought to church is a
- [The Virgin and the Whore: Thinking Beyond Dinah and Potiphar's Wife](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-virgin-and-the-whore/) - OT SS Lesson #11 Lesson 11 in the Old Testament manual employs several stories from Genesis 34-39 to develop the theme of sexual morality. Joseph's actions embody the "Lord's standards" for morality and are contrasted with the actions of Shechem, Reuben, and Judah. You may notice that the featured characters in the lesson are all
- [Are Mormon Academics Winning the Debate with Evangelicals?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-mormon-academics-winning-the-debate-with-evangelicals/) - I've been reading Terryl Givens book, By the Hand of Mormon. While acknowledging archaeological data isn't as strong as other aspects of the Book of Mormon, Givens seems to feel Mormon academics have made some impressive contributions. I posted a longer version of this on my blog. Givens starts with Hugh Nibley on page 118:
- [Memorialising the Holocaust: Post-memory and the Latter-Day Saints](https://www.mormonmatters.org/memorialising-the-holocaust-post-memory-and-the-latter-day-saints/) - According to Arrington and Bitton, “most individual responses of modern Mormons involve a kind of tie with the past”[1] . History is central to the Latter-day Saint faith. Stories from Latter-day Saint history reverberate out from their local settings and have a global impact in the lives of many, for both good and ill. How
- [Church as a Social Network](https://www.mormonmatters.org/church-as-a-social-network/) - There are those among the disaffected who would like to reap the benefits of the church as a community although they may no longer share the belief system that is the foundation of the church. For some, this works very well; for others, it's an endless source of frustration. I recently read a great book called Connected:
- [Grace vs. Works: An Oar With Your Name on It?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/grace-vs-works-an-oar-with-your-name-on-it/) - I just loved John Dehlin’s latest interview with Shawn McCraney. I’ve followed both of their work with great interest for years. They bring up the age-old grace vs. works issue, which always compels me to speak, because I don’t ever hear my point of view quite verbalized. I’m interested in the thoughts of this very
- [The Sacred Made Real: Mormonism, Iconography and the Passion of Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-sacred-made-real-mormonism-iconography-and-the-passion-of-christ/) - A few weeks ago I attended an exhibition entitled ‘The Sacred made Real’ at the National Gallery in London. The collection was focussed on Spanish hyper-realism (painting and sculpture) between 1600-1700. Some of the more famous artists included in this collection were: Velazquez, Zurburan and de Mena. The intent of these artists was to provide
- [Bad, Worse and Worst](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bad-worse-and-worst/) - I would like to use Genesis 12 (and an interesting post by Aaron B from BCC) to examine the inverse of Elder Oak's famous talk 'Good, Better and Best'. Simply stated Abraham was married to Sarai (who was apparently pretty hot!) and Pharoah was going to want to marry her. His choice: either die as her
- [Putting an Edge on Abraham](https://www.mormonmatters.org/putting-an-edge-on-abraham/) - OT SS Lesson #9 This story is so very, very familiar to us that I think it's important to look at it with a fresh perspective. So in this post I am including some pieces from media and the arts that force us to think about Genesis 22. I promise you in advance that some
- [Where the Lord Annihilates all the Gays](https://www.mormonmatters.org/where-the-lord-annihilates-all-the-gays/) - OT SS Lesson #8 "The Genesis passage is very clear, that the sin of Sodom that brought on the destruction of the city was indeed linked to homosexuality." (R. Albert Mohler Jr., president of the Southern Baptist Seminary) "Saying that the last recorded acts of the Sodomites -- the demands for same-gender sex -- are
- [Wired World Views: Preserving the Other's Truth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/wired-world-views-preserving-the-others-truth/) - In a February 2, 2008, cover story in New Scientist, Jim Giles asked whether political leanings were genetic: "Across the land, liberals and conservatives are slugging it out, trying to convince each other that their way of thinking is right. They may be wasting their breath."
- [Is God Still Progressing? (Poll Included)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-god-still-progressing-poll-included/) - Last month, one of the RS/PH lessons was about the nature of God. Since the lesson was only about a page and a half long, the discussion in RS ended up raising the question whether God is still progressing or whether, being God He has arrived and is no longer progressing. Read and and share your
- [Self-Esteem and Sexuality: Another approach to Chastity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/self-esteem-and-sexuality-another-approach-to-chastity/) - I want to take a lead from Hawgrrrl, who recently posted on the value of Sex Education in trying to reduce the rate of unwanted pregnancies and instil values of chastity in young people, but approach it from a different avenue. I recently attended a seminar which presented results from an investigation into the relationship between self-esteem
- [Home Teaching the Mentally Ill](https://www.mormonmatters.org/home-teaching-the-mentally-ill/) - I posted a longer version of this on my blog. Last month I had the most unusual experience I have ever had in regards to home teaching. Our ward realigned ward boundaries a few months ago, and we got a new bishopric, as well as a new Elder’s quorum presidency. With all the changes, I
- [Interfaith Marriages by guest Madam Curie](https://www.mormonmatters.org/interfaith-marriages-by-guest-madam-curie/) - A recent post by Cr@ig on Main Street Plaza caused me to reflect on the strength of interfaith marriages. I had hoped to generate a follow-up post on this topic at MSP. However, since the comments on the Cr@ig's post devolved into a blame game of whether the believer or non-believer was more responsible for
- [Sexual Transgression and the Limits of the Atonement- Guest Madam Curie](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sexual-transgression-and-the-limits-of-the-atonement-guest-madam-curie/) - Before I was baptized LDS, I had a college boyfriend with whom I was sexually active. At the time, I was under enormous pressure from him and my entire circle of friends to be intimate with him. My friends told me that after a year of dating, he really "deserved" more intimacy from me than
- [The Problem of Unanswered Prayer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-problem-of-unanswered-prayer/) - A large problem some people have is unanswered prayer. I got to thinking about it again when Jen was writing about someone she knew and how they complained (and probably believed) that their efforts had not resulted in answers, yet Jen knew, from knowing her, things that were the real problem. So why do we
- [Being Grateful for Adversity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/being-grateful-for-adversity/) - My House Burned Down. I Saw The Moon. (Buddhist Poem.) Last week I asked about perspectives on suffering and how they translate into culture. This week I want to talk specifically about what can be learned from hard times. Abraham Lincoln said, “I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction
- [‘God is not an enemy of Human Appetite’: The Church, the Lord and the M-Word](https://www.mormonmatters.org/‘god-is-not-an-enemy-of-human-appetite’-the-church-the-lord-and-the-m-word/) - Disclaimer: This post, as you might expect, does contain some overtly sexual references to specific parts of the body that are prominent in human sexuality. If you think this might offend you then please do not continue to read. My title is taken from Levi Peterson, who has famously written about masturbation in his book
- [A Tribute to Charity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-tribute-to-charity-my-father-had-a-stroke-on-wednesday/) - My father had a stroke on Wednesday. The artery in his neck is 95% blocked, and he will have surgery to try to correct that problem next Wednesday. Since my New Year's Resolution posts on my personal blog this month are focused on charity envying not, I want to repost something that I wrote a
- [A Plea To Mormons: Walk A Mile In Palestinian Shoes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/walk-a-mile/) - Guest Post by Non-Arab Arab BiV's recent post "Sod, Seed, Salvation: Abrahamic Covenant and the Claim to Palestine" brought me out of my normal lurking. Modern Palestine and what I firmly believe to be the erroneous interpretation most members of the church have regarding events there always riles me up. Usually I do the smart
- [Time to Study the Old Testament Again Part 6 – Symbols, Signs, Types and Shadows, and Tokens](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament-again-part-6-–-symbols-signs-types-and-shadows-and-tokens/) - “Behold, my soul delighteth in proving unto my people the truth of the coming of Christ; for, for this end hath the law of Moses been given; and all things which have been given of God from the beginning of the world, unto man, are the typifying of him.” 2 Nephi 11:4 One of the
- [Perspectives on Suffering](https://www.mormonmatters.org/perspectives-on-suffering/) - Why Does Suffering Exist, and How Does our Understanding of Suffering Translate into Our Culture? The desire to avoid suffering is probably one of the most common of the common denominators that connect all of humanity. Most religions, philosophies, and healing practices offer theories that identify the causes and ways out of suffering. Even within
- [Sod, Seed, Salvation: Abrahamic Covenant and the Claim to Palestine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sod-seed-salvation-abrahamic-covenant-and-the-claim-to-palestine/) - OT SS Lesson #7 Sod, seed, and salvation -- it's how I like to describe the Abrahamic Covenant. There were three promises in the covenant. The first was a land promise, where the Lord gave Abraham and his descendants the land of Canaan for an everlasting possession. The second was the promise of a great
- [2009 Niblets Results -- Analysis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/2009-niblets-results/) - There were 1058 ballots cast in this year's Niblets voting (counting a ballot as an IP address from which at least one vote was received). This represents a substantial decrease (21%) compared to last year's 1347 ballots. On the bright side, I only found one minor case of likely ballot stuffing, so I just ignored
- [2008 Niblets Results](https://www.mormonmatters.org/2008-niblets-results/) - Who won the Niblets? If you revisited the voting page late in the voting and looked at the poll results, you may already know. But I have a few different takes on the data that weren't in the poll results. So I hope you'll keep reading. Preliminaries There were a total of 1347 ballots cast
- [Joseph Smith Didn't Believe in Watchers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-smith-didnt-believe-in-watchers/) - OT SS Lesson #6 Hidden in our scripture reading for this week is a strange little passage which many modern Biblical scholars say was originally intended to explain the rise of the giant race of antiquity by the union of angelic beings with human wives. These verses in Genesis stirred a lively debate among early
- [Separating the Wheat from the Tares](https://www.mormonmatters.org/separating-the-wheat-from-the-tares/) - In the parable of the Wheat and the Tares (Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43), the servant asked the master if the tares should be uprooted and removed. But the Master says, no, because too much wheat will get lost in the process. But, during the harvest, the tares will be gathered first and destroyed. In D&C 86:
- [An Outsider's Look at the United Effort Plan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/an-outsiders-look-at-the-united-effort-plan/) - If you were in downtown Salt Lake City today, you may have noticed a large rally of over a thousand peacefully protesting polygamists. What is happening to the financial affairs of the FLDS right now seems completely inexplicable, but I need to try to understand what is going on. And it seems to me to
- [From Patriarchy to Eternity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/from-patriarchy-to-eternity/) - I am going to put this as simply as possible, and let's start with a definition. Patriarchy is a social system in which the father or eldest male is head of the household, having authority over women and children. Patriarchy also refers to a system of government by males, and to the dominance of men
- [Unbridled Speculation Strikes Again -- The Old Testament Series](https://www.mormonmatters.org/unbridled-speculation-strikes-again-the-old-testament-series/) - In the classic Old Testament, Eve has her first child, then her second and one (Cain) kills the other (Able). Cain is cursed to wander. Cain's first concern thereafter is that the other humans on the Earth, not children of Adam and Eve, will kill him as he wanders. The Pearl of Great Price does
- [Vote Here -- 2009 Niblets Awards](https://www.mormonmatters.org/vote-here-2009-niblets-awards/) - Voting is now closed. Voting for the 2009 Niblets has begun. You may click the selections to view the links as many times as you wish. Then make your final selection and click the "vote" button. Once you click the "vote" button on each category, you cannot change your vote. You may make one selection
- [Niblets Winners 2009 ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/niblets-winners-2009/) - Niblets voting has now concluded. We hope you have all enjoyed this year's effort. Join us one week from today to view Ziff's professional summary!! Niblets winners 2009 are cordially invited to use this button: View Winners below------- Best Big Blog BCC Best group blog Segullah Best Humorous Blog My Religious Blog Best Solo Blog
- [Mormon Missionaries Die in Romania](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-missionaries-die-in-romania/) - I want to let everyone know of a very unfortunate situation in Romania. According to this Deseret News article, Elder McKay Choy Burrows, 20, of Highland, Utah, and Elder Jace Edwards Davis, 20, of Logandale, Nevada, died from accidental natural gas asphyxiation due to a gas leak in their apartment sometime Friday night in Romania.
- [Church Growth and the Tendency toward Liberalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/church-growth-and-the-tendency-toward-liberalism/) - Some time ago, as a guest I wrote a post entitled 'Academic freedom in the Church' which tried to explore some of liberalizing tendencies seen in LDS culture since the September Six, but particularly over the last decade. Having recently read an excellent (as usual) article by D. Michael Quinn on the development of the 'Sacral
- [Abstainers vs. Indulgers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/abstainers-vs-indulgers/) - Mormons dig abstinence. Like many other highly committed Christians, we abstain from premarital sex. But, that's not all; we also abstain from tobacco, alcohol, coffee, tea, profanity, R-rated movies, dating before age 16, fooling around prior to marriage, and shopping on Sundays. And some even like to add more abstinence on top of that! I
- [You're the Bishop:  Poll #3](https://www.mormonmatters.org/youre-the-bishop-poll-3/) - Bishop Bill back with more. We've had fictionalized situations in the last two installments with a YW and a YM. Now, let's have a situation with an adult. A middle-aged single brother moves into your ward. He has been divorced for nearly 10 years. He was married in the temple. He has been inactive for
- [You're the Bishop:  Poll #2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/youre-the-bishop-poll-2/) - Bishop Bill back with your next installment of "You're the Bishop." Just to be clear, the examples I am using have been changed enough that not even my wife or former counselors in the bishopric would recognize who I am talking about. There is a young man in your ward who seems to push the
- [Squaring the Circle, balance and ideals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/squaring-the-circle-balance-and-ideals/) - A discussion of Squaring the Circle, a geometric puzzle.
- [All things denote that there is a God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/all-things-denote-that-there-is-a-god/) - According to the recent lesson manuals, the founding fathers, including Benjamin Franklin, were inspired. All things denote (not connote) that there is a God, and, to quote Mr. Franklin, beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy. Discuss how your discussion of the first lesson in the manual went. Did
- [True or Bizarre:  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/true-or-bizarre-a-poll/) - While there are moral truths that all religions tend to share (don't kill, don't steal, be nice to people, etc.), religions also include "bizarre" differentiators to distinguish each religious community (often in food prohibitions, clothing choices, or supernatural beliefs). These "bizarre" elements hedge up the community and create borders between the religious group and those not
- [Why I want to Live the United Order ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-i-want-to-live-the-united-order/) - OT SS Lesson #5 I have often thought that had I not joined the Church at age 19 I would have liked to have joined a kibbutz in Israel, or to have lived on "the Farm" in Tennessee (back when it was more hippie-like), or at least to have been a part of an intentional
- [Hate Crimes up for Gays, Religious](https://www.mormonmatters.org/hate-crimes-up-for-gays-religious/) - So, what do you make of this? This AP article says that Hate crimes up against gays, religious groups - "Overall, the number of reported cases increases 2 percent." Now the FBI says this could be the result of better reporting, and not really an increase. Brian Levin, director for the Center for the Study
- [CoC to tackle Major Issues at April Conference: Gay Marriage & Baptism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/coc-to-tackle-major-issues-at-april-conference-gay-marriage-baptism/) - This is the second guest Post from FireTag, a member of the Community of Christ (formerly known as RLDS). As he mentioned in his previous post, the Community of Christ is going through the process of canonization of a new revelation. Here's his latest installment of the process. CofChrist Prophet: Baptism in Christ Transcends Culture
- [Canonizing Modern Revelation - A Tourist Guide](https://www.mormonmatters.org/canonizing-modern-revelation-a-tourist-guide/) - Over the past year or so, I've become blogging buddies with FireTag, a member of the Community of Christ. He has his own blog at The Fire Still Burning. Many of you should recognize FireTag, as he frequently comments here at Mormon Matters. He was part of my panel for the Interview with the Community
- [Committing Spiritual Murder: Analysing Alma 39](https://www.mormonmatters.org/on-committing-spiritual-murder/) - Michael Ash in a Sunstone article entitled ‘The Sin “Next to Murder”’ has argued that Alma’s exhortation to his son Corianton (who had ran off with an woman of ill-repute), that ‘these things are an abomination in the sight of the Lord; yea most abominable above all sins save it be the shedding of innocent
- [The Fourth Purpose:  Haiti, and Who is My Brother?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-fourth-purpose-haiti-and-who-is-my-brother/) - An article from the Salt Lake Tribune listed in the Mormon Matters sidebar sometime ago noted the official elevation of "care of the poor and needy" to the status of a "purpose" of the Mormon (LDS) church. Church news sources are noting how LDS resources are being mobilized from both the United States and the
- [Niblets Nominations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/niblets-nominations-2009/) - Nominations for the Niblets Awards are now in. A few minor changes have been made to screen for category, and to avoid duplication. Nominations that did not fall under 2009 were eliminated. New blogs were accepted if they had a very small bit of introductory posting before 2009. When an author had two or more
- ["They Don't Really Belong" - The Story of Doubting Jews Caught In Between Worlds. ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/they-dont-really-belong-the-story-of-doubting-jews-caught-in-between-worlds/) - I recently came across this story on the BBC Website and felt that I had to return to Mormon Matters to write a few comments about it. High Cost of Leaving Ultra-Orthodox Judaism Over the years I have noticed many similarities between Mormons and other religions, but I never thought I would see a similarity
- [For God's Sake, Blog!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/for-gods-sake-blog/) - I wish I could claim credit for the title of the post, but it actually comes from this MSNBC article. Apparently the Pope is encouraging Catholic Priests to blog. It reminded me of Elder Ballard's admonition back in 2007. Even though the pope doesn't love computers, he said, "Priests are thus challenged to proclaim the
- [Doing Right for the Wrong Reason](https://www.mormonmatters.org/doing-right-for-the-wrong-reason/) - Should we still do good things, even if our motives are not perfect and pure?
- [The Dispensation of the Fullness of Times](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-dispensation-of-the-fullness-of-times/) - A discussion about the concept of the Dispensation of the Fullness of Times and the Information Age.
- [Mormon Stories # 112 & 113: Joanna Brooks Parts 1 and 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-stories-112-113-joanna-brooks-parts-1-and-2/) - I recorded my first Mormon Stories podcast in some time w/ professor, author and mother Joanna Brooks, and thought it might be nice to discuss these episodes here on Mormon Matters. For some background, Joanna was a very important figure in the uber-controversial BYU Academic Freedom days of 1990-1993...and is now a writer on Mormon topics for Religion
- [2009 Niblets are Here!!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/2009-niblets-are-here/) - Mormon Matters introduces the 2009 Niblets Awards! It's back! The opportunity to honor the unique and talented Mormon bloggers of 2009. It's a chance to look back on the year and remember the great things that happened in the Bloggernacle, to come together in a spirit of comaraderie and fun! Mormon Matters will be hosting
- [You're the Bishop:  Scenario #1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/youre-the-bishop-poll-1/) - Welcome to "You're the Bishop," a new installment at Mormon Matters. My name is Bishop Bill. Once every few weeks I'll post a situation that I had while I was bishop, and let you decide how to handle it. Everybody gets to play, even the ladies out there. After a week, I'll add a comment
- [Mormon Stories 2.0 - And How You Can Help](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-stories-is-back/) - Hey Folks, Some of you may have heard that I've decided to bring back Mormon Stories Podcast. For those of you who are new to the 'Nacle or who never listened previously, Mormon Stories is an audio podcast interview series (kind of like Fresh Air with Terry Gross or Speaking of Faith with Krista Tippet),
- [Adam & Eve as  UFOs (Unidentified Figurative Objects)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/adam-eve-as-ufos-unidentified-figurative-objects/) - OT SS Lesson #4 Although our SS lesson for this week presents Adam and Eve as two literal, physical characters, the temple ceremony hints that we can benefit by viewing their story as figurative. I am often dismayed that symbolism, while given lip service, is so little understood in LDS circles. Since the majority of
- [What's With the Initials Anyway?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-with-the-initials-anyway/) - Never in the history of mankind have name initials played such an important role as in the LDS Church. Not only are middle initials used when referring to the leaders of the Church, one cannot even say the names without the middle initials. It just doesn’t sound right. Gordon Hinckley, Russell Ballard, Reuben Clark? In
- [Obedience or Natural Law?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/obedience-or-natural-law/) - There is an interesting character on Youtube who calls herself “The Non-Muslim Hijabi”. She wears a head scarf even though she’s not Muslim. I felt a kinship with her, since I’m a Non-Mormon Word of Wisdom follower, and generally live all the other commandments. (The lifestyle teachings, not the ordinances.) In one of her videos,
- [On Failed Patriarchal Blessings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/on-failed-patriarchal-blessings/) - Some time ago I spoke to someone I knew about a Patriarchal blessing they had received which seemed to have failed to come to pass. We discussed it at some length and I then asked them if I could have some time to think about the issue more. I tried to find reasons to explain the failure and
- [Mormon Innovations:  the Pre-Mortal Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-innovations-the-pre-mortal-life/) - I'm teaching the Gospel Principles lesson #2 tomorrow. I'm going to attempt to utilize proper sources, only utilizing personal experiences and church magazines. We'll see if I bore everyone to tears or if we can have an enlightening conversation. The title of Lesson #2 is "Our Heavenly Family", but I think it is mis-named. Most
- [The Creation Accounts -- Unharmonized](https://www.mormonmatters.org/creation-unharmonized/) - OT SS Lesson #3 Several years ago I did a study of Joseph Smith's different accounts of the First Vision. It was fascinating to see how the accounts changed over time and according to his audience. I reflected that I had told my own conversion story many different ways and with different emphases over the
- [Mormon Matters on Kindle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-matters-on-kindle/) - Just last week, Mormon Matters content became available to Kindle owners. The only other b'naclers on Kindle are our buddies at By Common Consent. So, here's why you should get a Kindle and subscribe to MM! Not sure a Kindle is right for you? Well, I'm not sure either. Here are some pros & cons to
- [On Being an Apostle but not in the Quorum](https://www.mormonmatters.org/on-being-an-apostle-but-not-in-the-quorum/) - ‘In 1866, at the age of only twenty-seven, Joseph F. Smith was ordained an Apostle by President Brigham Young, and served briefly as one of his special additional counselors. When a vacancy occurred in the Twelve the following year, Elder Smith was sustained as a member of that quorum’ [1]. The date was Oct 8,
- [Follow the [blank]:  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/follow-the-blank-a-poll/) - In the church, we learn how to be good followers. There are many things we are told to follow: the prophet, good examples, our parents' instructions, the gospel, the brethren, the Spirit, and the dictates of our own conscience. We are told, on the one hand, NOT to follow the world or the crowd. But
- [Dysfunctional Families or Church?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dysfunctional-families-or-church/) - Exit stories are the tales told when someone leaves the church. The internet is full of these stories, and in many, there is drama in the family as a result of the person's decision to leave. Often the person attributes at least some of that family drama to the church itself as an organization. Yet, it
- [Mormons Celebrating Diversity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormons-celebrating-diversity/) - Hello Mormon Matters community! I was invited to contribute a blogpost now and then, and hope I’ll be able to throw some meaningful questions into the hopper. I write under the name Ecumenigal because of my eclectic background and multi-faith points of view. I’m sort of a religious mutt. I’m Mormon by heritage, birth, and
- [Drop it!  Who's Worthy to Take the Sacrament?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/drop-it-whos-worthy-to-take-the-sacrament/) - Is it ever appropriate to intervene when someone "unworthy" is going to take the sacrament? What level of "unworthiness" makes such intervention justified? There was a big disagreement about this on my mission. An investigator who had been given a chapel card showed up for church just as the sacrament service was beginning. When the bread tray came to him,
- [BYU Students Hit it Big: Miley Cyrus Virus Rap](https://www.mormonmatters.org/byu-students-hit-it-big-miley-cyrus-virus-rap/) - BYU (and UVU) students hit it big. 100,000 Youtube views and counting. Who says Mormons can't have fun? (Notice Helaman Halls in the background. See here to appreciate the parody)
- [Think for yourself or not – that is the question .Cognitive Dissonance 1   ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/think-for-yourself-or-not-–-that-is-the-question-cognitive-dissonance-1/) - Many of you in the bloggernacle thrive on having two opposing ideas at once in your head. I have always found that difficult. I have seen many who can’t cope with it at all and have to come to a conclusion one way or the other or their belief system will cave in and their
- [Mormon Law 2009 Year in Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-law-2009-year-in-review/) - The waning days of 2009 saw the possible loosening of Utah liquor laws as a national story. Meanwhile, in a development covered by Mormon Matters, the Deseret News suggested that 2009 marked the end of a decade that saw the growing influence of Mormonism in American culture. What was the LDS experience in 2009 in
- [Dancing Through the Sidebar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dancing-through-the-sidebar-6/) - Comment on any of the following articles – or anything else from the sidebar – or any other article of interest to this forum that we missed. There is no such thing as being normal If Kaimi were in dire straits, he would prefer to render unto Caesar what is Caesar's Apparently, marriage is hard
- [Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson: Tributes are in order](https://www.mormonmatters.org/farrah-fawcett-and-michael-jackson-tributes-are-in-order/) - Two pop icons are gone on the same day. A clingy swimsuit; multiple noses - that hair; the moonwalk - Angels; Demons. So much to mourn; so much to lampoon.
- [Dancing through the Sidebar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dancing-through-the-sidebar-5/) - There are only two new articles in the sidebar this week, but they are important ones. Comment on either of them - or any other article of interest to this forum that we missed. RIP Truman Madsen Elder and Sister Nelson and others attacked in Africa
- [Bill Marriott Takes a Stand?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bill-marriott-takes-a-stand/) - Does this represent Bill Marriott taking a stand? What does this mean?
- [If you were prophet, what would you change?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/if-you-were-prophet-what-would-you-change/) - Here's an exercise for the 'Nacle If you had complete control of the church, what would you change? The only 3 requirements are that any change must lead to: 1) Equivalent or increase of church membership 2) Equivalent or increase in member's willingness to commit time to the church 3) Equivalent or increase in tithing
- [Open Thread: US Presidential Debate #1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/open-thread-us-presidential-debate-1/) - Apparently the debate will go forward, despite McCain's earlier statement that he would be spending time working on the economy instead, and Obama rejoinder that he is capable of focusing on more than one thing at a time. Let's discuss the debate as it unfolds, who scores points, who is the ultimate winner and loser
- [Open Thread: Ike Hits Houston](https://www.mormonmatters.org/open-thread-ike-hits-houston/) - News about Ike on cnn.com gives some up to date information on what is happening there. I wanted to open a thread for those on the ground to discuss what's going on (if you have power!) and for those with loves ones in the area to comment and discuss. A friend says: "We lost power
- [Jeff Nielson's "Open Letter to California Mormons" Encouraging Oppposition to LDS Church on Gay Marriage Issue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/jeff-nielsons-open-letter-to-california-mormons-on-gay-marriage-and-lds-church/) - Professor Jeffrey Nielsen, whose op-ed two years ago against the LDS Church's stance on gay marriage led to his demise at church-owned Brigham Young University, has written an open letter to California Mormons in the wake of the church's request for members to support a constitutional ban on gay marriage in that state (from KCPW).
- [News Flash: LDS Church WILL Be Actively Opposing Gay Marriage in California This November](https://www.mormonmatters.org/news-flash-lds-church-will-be-actively-opposing-gay-marriage-in-california-this-november/) - News Flash: The LDS Church WILL be actively opposing gay marriage in California this November, and is encouraging members to actively oppose gay marriage in California. They are asking all members of the church to, "do all you can to support the proposed constitutional amendment by donating of your means and time to assure that
- [The Gay Rights Paradox](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-gay-rights-paradox/) - Today's guest post is by John G-W. LDS Church spokesman, Michael Otterson, downplayed the significance of the LDS Church’s public backing of gay rights legislation passed recently in Salt Lake City. He emphasized that the Church has already gone on record in support of civil rights legislation protecting gay individuals from discrimination. He also made
- [Leave the Church, Leave it Alone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/leave-the-church-leave-it-alone/) - This post is by Heather B. We have all heard this mantra; if you are involved with church related discussion boards, you have probably heard it often. For sake of discussion, let us assume that the person who has left the church has not 'sinned' and will never ever come back no matter what. So
- [yes, Jesus loves me?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/yes-jesus-loves-me/) - Mosiah 3: 19 19 For the anatural bman is an cenemy to God, and has been from the dfall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he eyields to the enticings of the Holy fSpirit, and gputteth off the hnatural man and becometh a isaint through the atonement of Christ the Lord... This
- [the stuff of loving](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-stuff-of-loving/) - This post is by Heather B. I believe that transparency is the way we love. A friend once told me, “You can’t love someone if you can’t talk to them.” I think we were discussing boys or dating at the time, but the older I get, the more I agree with her. I think this
- [Who are these Anti-Mormons?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/who-are-these-anti-mormons/) - This post is by Heather B. I’m not a member of the LDS church, although I was once. I’ve had many members ask me over the years, why we left. When I try to explain, I tend to get cut off mid sentence, with protests about how the sources or people I am quoting are
- [For time and all eternity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/for-time-and-all-eternity/) - This post is by Heather B. My husband and I were married and sealed to each other in an LDS temple over 6 years ago. We were surrounded by around 30 of his closest friends and family, but none of mine. I was a convert to the church of about 2 years when we married,
- [Someday we'll find it, the rainbow connection...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/someday-well-find-it-the-rainbow-connection/) - This post is by Heather B. About a week ago, I had to explain death to my four year old. It was one of those conversations that every parent hopes to put off for as long as possible, and made a little more complicated by the circumstances. My sister-in-law died suddenly in an accident, which
- [LDS worship skills](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lds-worship-skills/) - Today's post is by The Chorister. I just read a book called In the land of invisible women: A female doctor’s journey in the Saudi kingdom by Qanta A. Ahmed, M.D. Absolutely amazing read. I’ve been recommending it to everyone I know. Qanta is a British-born Muslim physician, trained in the U.S., who takes a
- [Quals or quants?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/quals-or-quants/) - Today's post is by The Chorister. I’m an education professor. In academic research, we talk about quantitative research and qualitative research. In order to avoid boring you to death, I offer a simplistic definition of each to explain the difference. Quantitative research is about statistics; it’s about cold hard facts (of course, there's no such
- [There's more than one way to (not) abide it . . .](https://www.mormonmatters.org/theres-more-than-one-way-to-not-abide-it/) - Today's post is by The Chorister. Sometimes I get really frustrated with my relationship with the church and find myself increasingly feeling like I don’t fit. So I e-mailed my younger brother recently and told him some of what I've been feeling. He’s had similar feelings in the past, but seems mostly at peace now.
- [Hymn #114:  Come unto him](https://www.mormonmatters.org/hymn-114-come-unto-him-2/) - Today's post is by The Chorister. This is one of my favorite hymns. We hardly ever sing it in Sacrament meeting, which is a real shame. I’ve been listening to it all week and it just makes me feel good. Is that “the Spirit”? I don’t know. I just know that it makes me feel
- [The Song of the Righteous is a Prayer unto Me](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-song-of-the-righteous-is-a-prayer-unto-me/) - Today's post is by The Chorister. Last week while I was playing the organ for Sacrament meeting, it hit me that often, the only time I feel touched by the spirit at church is while singing hymns or primary songs. I love singing songs at church. It makes me feel like I’m a part of
- [The New Mormon Brand](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-new-mormon-brand/) - Today's post is by Wade Nelson. THE NEW MORMON BRAND In my view the Prop 8 campaign in California that just ended has turned out to be a fiasco for the Church. I had assumed and hoped it would fail but we have all lost by winning. This post is not about the issue of
- [How should we know? Ask him yourself!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-should-we-know-ask-him-yourself/) - Today's post is by Wade Nelson. I served my mission in Quebec in the mid 1970’s and hate to admit it but spent more time studying Church history and doctrine than I did teaching the Gospel. I was a lousy missionary. Our Mission President was Wayne Owens a Neal Maxwell protégé who was very lax
- [Remember Dieter Uchtdorf?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/remember-dieter-uchtdorf/) - Today's post is by Wade Nelson. Remember Dieter Uchtdorf? If you are like me you were thrilled when Dieter Uchtdorf was sustained as a new member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles. His accent was refreshing, so very German rather than the old Utah drawl, a pilot instead of a lawyer or simple business executive
- [McConkie In Action](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mcconkie-in-action/) - Today's post is by Wade Nelson. I hope this doesn’t come across as a slam on Elder McConkie. While I disagree with many of his teachings and writings, I respect him for his devotion, integrity, and commitment. What follows is an anecdote from my family history that exemplifies how that devotion and commitment became action.
- [Family Concerns](https://www.mormonmatters.org/family-concerns/) - Today's post is by Wade Nelson. Apart from a brother who has been inactive for many years, I come from a family whose members have been active and faithful their entire lives. I am something of an oddity (read: black sheep) with my concern and interest in the intellectual side of the gospel. My siblings
- [Speculation: Christ Uncrucified](https://www.mormonmatters.org/speculation-christ-uncrucified/) - Today's post is by Orchard. The following narrative is purely speculative in nature, but I think the thought experiment has merit. I am a fan of alternate history, and wrote this some time back. I have strongly debated whether or not to post it, as I recognize that the concept hinges on a single moment
- [Dissecting Porn: A look at some interesting statistics.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dissecting-porn-a-look-at-some-interesting-statistics/) - Today's post is by Orchard. First off an introduction of myself is in order as this is my first actual post! I've been around for a while writing behemoth-sized responses to threads which then require massive digestion on the parts of readers. I'd apologize for that, but doing so might imply some level of contrition
- [Joy to the World...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joy-to-the-world/) - Today's post is by Rachel Maw. I'm the kind of person that could listen to Christmas song all year long. Yes, I know that probably annoys the heck out of a lot of you, but I can't help it, I love Christmas music. I love all the bells and the instrumental music. I love going
- [Segregated Sundays](https://www.mormonmatters.org/segregated-sundays/) - Today's post is by Rachel Maw. I was scanning through the news stories over at cnn.com when I came across this article, "Why many Americans prefer their Sundays segregated". It started me thinking about my own ward. I live in a state where about 30% of the population is Hispanic, but you wouldn’t know it
- [Continuing Problems with Mountain Meadows](https://www.mormonmatters.org/continuing-problems-with-mountain-meadows/) - Today's guest post is by Joe Geisner. Most bookstores in Utah have sold out of the new book on the Mountain Meadows massacre with a print run of 10,000 copies. Amazingly this happened in less than a week. The buzz is that the book answers all the questions. This new openness, scholarly approach and availability
- [LaJauna on Life - Lesson #1: Deserving Charity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lajauna-on-life-lesson-1-deserving-charity/) - Today's guest post is by LaJauna. Hiya there folks, please allow me to formally introduce myself to you all: My name is LaJauna L. Jentsen, and I'm currently serving as the second-counselor in the Relief Society Presidentcy of the BYU 69th ward. I got wind that Mormon Matters was looking for female authors who could
- [Joseph Smith: Treasure-seeker or Prophet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-smith-treasure-seeker-or-prophet/) - One of the most controversial aspects of Joseph Smith’s early life—and one not especially well known among most Mormons—is his adventures as a treasure-seeker. His father was likely a treasure-seeker before the family moved to New York from Vermont, where divining rods were the common medium in the search. Sometime in the early 1820s, Joseph was introduced to seer-stones, a common scrying device in western New York. Joseph quickly developed a reputation as a talented seer, and was known to peer into his stone to direct fellow treasure-seekers in their hunts. When Joseph was gaining notoriety as the Book of Mormon was being prepared for publication, local antagonists in Palmyra were quick to ridicule his treasure-seeking activity. A local newspaper editor, Abner Cole, referred to treasure-seers as clear “impostures” in an article on Mormonism and wrote a piece of satire that mocked the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith’s treasure-seeking.
- [Children and Testimonies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/id-like-to-bear-my-testimony-ditto/) - Today's post is by Andrew C. This past Sunday, we attended a different ward for a relative's baby blessing. This particular ward is located in a newer large development along the Wasatch Front, and was filled with young families and children (this one has three primaries. Three). There was a constant drone of babies and
- [Mormonism and the State of Nature](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormonism-and-the-state-of-nature/) - Today's post is by Andrew C. As a registered Democrat and a political junkie, it’s difficult for me not to notice politics at church. I’m often surprised by the positions and policies that people often take for granted, without much independent thought of their own. Of course, I find that I tend to be reflexively
- [Bookends #2:  Book of Mormon Studies--Orson Pratt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bookends-2-book-of-mormon-studies-orson-pratt/) - Today's post is by Terry Foraker. Ever since its initial publication in 1830, the Book of Mormon has been the subject of countless studies. This post is the first of a series to introduce those who may be familiar with these studies to some of the more prominent of these writings as a starting point.
- [Bookends #1:  The Screwtape Letters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bookends-1-the-screwtape-letters/) - Today's post is by Terry Foraker. Welcome to Bookends, a new column where I give you a peek over my shoulder at what I am currently reading and hopefully toss out a quasi-thoughtful question or two. The other night I finished listening to the audio version of The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis. (There are
- [I'm Right and Everyone Else is Wrong!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/im-right-and-everyone-else-is-wrong/) - Today's post is by Zane Chartrand. When I was a missionary I once knocked on a door and after I had introduced my companion and I and identified us as missionaries with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints he welcomed us with open arms and invited us to come into his house
- [Bigfoot, the Three Nephites and the Lost Tribes of Israel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bigfoot-the-three-nephites-and-the-lost-tribes-of-israel/) - Today's post is by SuperNerd. I would like to give a shout out to all the Ward crazies...Where have you all gone? Every Ward has them and every Ward needs them for comic relief. You know who I’m talking about, that member of the ward who bears his/her testimony every month and always has a
- [Singing Lies About Your Jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/singing-lies-about-your-jesus/) - Today's post is by guest Nikki. If you say something true about Jesus, but your Jesus is a different Jesus, is what you said about the first Jesus still true? What if you’re singing it? Earlier this month, I had an audition to be a keyboardist & vocalist
- [Happy Valley - A True Life Story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/happy-valley-a-true-life-story/) - Today's post is by Ghost Writer. Coming to a theatre near you (if you live in Utah) March 28th One miracle after another occurs through the passion of one full time single father whose original intention was to reunite his 12-year-old daughter with her addicted mother.Deep in the heart of Utah, commonly referred to as
- [Roadshows: Are They Gone Forever?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/roadshows-are-they-gone-forever/) - Today's post is by Ghost Writer. Definitely Definitely Watch The Video Above – all will be explained later Mormon Roadshows Sent Packing Salt Lake Tribune 31Jul99 L2 By Peggy Fletcher Stack: Salt Lake Tribune Many Mormons who have grown up in the LDS church have performed in a roadshow at least once in their lives.
- [Mothers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mothers/) - This post was by Chris W. Our 1 year old has had a stomach bug the last couple of days - lots of laundry + little sleep = no fun. Watching my wife in action reminded me of something Lorenzo Snow said: A mother who has brought up a family of faithful children ought to
- [Voting -- 2008 Niblet Awards](https://www.mormonmatters.org/2008-niblets-rock-the-vote-here/) - And the nominees are . . . 1 - Best BIG Blog (links provided) By Common Consent Feminist Mormon Housewives Millennial Star Mormon Matters Seriously So Blessed Times & Seasons Time to Vote! [poll id="12"] 2 - Best GROUP Blog (links provided) The Exponent Faith Promoting Rumor Juvenile Instructor Mormon Mentality Mormon Metaphysics New Cool Thang
- [Chosen or Posin' ? Abraham, Buffy, and Other Choice Spirits](https://www.mormonmatters.org/chosen-or-posin-abraham-buffy-and-other-choice-spirits/) - OT SS Lesson #2 This was an interesting lesson to read after last year's brou-ha-ha over an alleged "generals in the war in heaven" quote. On the 25th of February 2008, the Church issued an official statement from the Office of the First Presidency to all General Authorities, Area Seventies, Stake Presidents, Mission Presidents, District
- ["Pretender" Mormons?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/pretender-mormons/) - (Hat tip to Antonio Parr at BCC) To get this post, you're either gonna have to spend 7 minutes listening to this song ..or be a Jackson Browne fan....but here's my question: How many of you out there have fallen prey...at one time or another....to being a "Pretender" Mormon? And I don't mean pretending to
- [Time to Study the Old Testament…Again – Part 5 – “Plain and Precious Things”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament…again-–-part-5-–-“plain-and-precious-things”/) - “We believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly; we also believe the Book of Mormon to be the word of God.” (Articles of Faith 1:8) “And it came to pass that I, Nephi, beheld that they did prosper in the land; and I beheld a book,
- [Dialogue Subscribers and Book of Mormon Historicity?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dialogue-subscribers-and-book-of-mormon-historicity/) - In 2005 Dialogue conducted research among it's subscribers. There was over a 1,000 responses which (assuming that everyone answered every question) is a fairly good sized sample to infer what the population of subscribers might think. One interesting tidbit is that nearly half of the subscribers were over 61 and that 40% had a doctoral
- [What is "sin"?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-sin-2/) - In my apparently never ending need to define absolutely everything, (e.g. what "bless the food" means or "what is the church?") I am continuing my "What is.... ?" series, with a topic that I have had a hard time defining in the past. What, really, is sin? Not so much "what are some examples of
- [Gregory House and Emmanuel Levinas: Finding Meaning in Suffering: Part 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/gregory-house-and-emmanuel-levinas-finding-meaning-in-suffering-part-2-2/) - A few weeks ago I wrote a post on suffering. Resulting from a thoughtful critique of that post, by Andrew S, and a recommendation (in the following discussion) to read Emmanuel Levinas' essay on 'Useless Suffering', I have decided to present a re-formulated version of my comments; because my thinking has moved on. I hope that this
- [The Word of Wisdom and the Temple: Personal, Political and Prophetic Dimensions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-word-of-wisdom-and-the-temple-personal-political-and-prophetic-dimensions/) - Obedience to the Word of Wisdom, it is commonly known, was not always a requirement for entering the Temple or advancement in the Priesthood. What is less clear from the historicl record is when this principle moved to become a requirement. President Joseph Fielding Smith believed the change occurred in 1851, but an excellent article by
- [Richard Dawkins, God and Santa Claus: Belief as a Form of Abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/richard-dawkins-god-and-santa-claus-belief-as-a-form-of-abuse/) - Between Christmas and New Year I had the opportunity to meet with some friends and at one point during the evening we began discussing the role of Santa Claus in raising children. As I was thinking about what was said on the way home I recalled an article I had read in the 'New Scientist'
- [Did Mormon Influence Increase over the Decade?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/did-mormon-influence-increases-over-the-decade/) - My wife brought this to my attention while reading the front page of the Deseret News: 2000s: The First Decade-Mormon Church Influence Soars. Without providing any sources, it says, President Thomas S. Monson has been named the most influential 80-year-old in America and Joseph Smith and Brigham Young are listed among the most important 100
- [Time to Study the Old Testament...Again – Part 4 – How to Study the Old Testament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament-again-–-part-4-–-how-to-study-the-old-testament/) - As we start the new cycle of scripture study this coming Sunday, just how should we study the Old Testament? As was pointed out in comments made in Part 1, we cannot really study the Old Testament in one year. In fact, two years is not nearly enough time. If you really wanted to study,
- [What is your relationship with Mormonism?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-your-relationship-with-mormonism/) - This is a question I just had for everyone...because if there's one thing I've learned from all this blogging, it's that people have such widely differing relationships with Mormonism. I've taken for granted that people are looking for the same "things" from it as I was/am, but that is not the case. So, my question
- [Is a "believing heart" really a positive attribute?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-a-believing-heart-really-a-positive-attribute/) - I would like to introduce Madam Curie which many of you know her by on her replies at Mormon Matters she also has her own blog Third Wave Mormon . She has shared with us what I think is a very interesting and thought provoking article. Is a "believing heart" really a positive attribute? "Blessed
- [Virtual PH/RS Lesson:  Elder Eyring's talk and the New Year](https://www.mormonmatters.org/virtual-phrs-lesson-elder-eyrings-talk-and-the-new-year/) - I was asked to teach the lesson in Elder's Quorum on Elder Eyring's General Conference talk from October: Our Perfect Example (click here for video.) Inspired by Hawkgrrrl's Virtual RS/PH lessons, I thought I'd give it a try again. I'm not sure if everyone is supposed to review this talk, but I believe this is
- [Merry Christmas, Everyone!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/merry-christmas-everyone-2/) - May this day be one that is devoid of contention, anger, hard feelings and condemnation. May we commit to make it such within our own spheres of influence. May love fill our hearts to overflowing this day. May we commit to allow it to be so on other days. May our differences matter less than
- [Time to Study the Old Testament……..Again - Part 3 - Transmission and Translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament……-again-part-3-transmission-and-translation/) - I have to apologize for the lateness of this post. I traveled to Europe a 3 times since before Thanksgiving and just couldn't find the time to finish this installment until I finally got home. In this part 3, I wanted to discuss how the Old Testament was transmitted, translated and how those things affect
- [Josh and Susan Powell, and an LDS Ultimatum -- "Get Active, or I'm Leaving With the Kids"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/josh-powell-and-an-lds-ultimatum-get-active-or-im-leaving-with-the-kids/) - (This post has been updated) Just saw this blurb in the Deseret News this morning: When Josh and Susan Powell were first married, both were very active in the LDS Church, Petersen said. They were sealed in the temple. But once they moved to Utah, Josh Powell stopped attending church. Petersen said the Powells' marriage
- [Sex Ed:  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/sex-ed-a-poll-2/) - Which is more effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies: abstinence education or conception education? A recent article on cnn.com talked about the gaps in teen knowledge about sex, and their dangerous sexual practices as a result of their ignorance. The article attributed this lack of knowledge and misinformation to a recent focus on abstinence in education
- [Articles of Faith of Mormon Culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/articles-of-faith-of-mormon-culture/) - My only regret is that I cannot take credit for this wonderful bit of humor! They were originally posted by an author found here. Please enjoy! Articles of Faith of Mormon Culture 1. We believe in SUVs and minivans, as the form of transportation, and in knee length shorts, which are always nice, and in
- [Christmas Gifts:  Gold, Frankincense, Myrrh](https://www.mormonmatters.org/christmas-gifts-gold-frankincense-myrrh/) - Many lament that Christmas has turned into a commercial gift-giving holiday. However, the Bible shows that gift-giving happened right after the birth of Christ. The Book of Matthew tells of 3 gifts the Wise Men gave: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Prof Deirdre Good of the General Theological Seminary in New York tells us the meaning
- [Top 10 Ways GAs Eat Reese's Peanut Butter Cup](https://www.mormonmatters.org/8723/) - I was inspired by jmb275's recent post on the Mormon Cultural Articles of Faith, so I thought I'd post an oldie but a personal favorite. Hope you enjoy! My husband can do all the voices, but even without the voices, these are pretty spot on for style! Top 10 Ways General Authorities eat Reese's Peanut
- [The Genius of Mormonism:  Ordinances](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-genius-of-mormonism-ordinances/) - This is the next installment in my series about what gives Mormonism staying power and makes it an effective religion at winning and retaining adherents. Many churches have abandoned their exclusivity claims surrounding ordinances, if they ever had them in the first place (a little hard to claim for some sects, based on their foundation
- [Chakras and the Word of Wisdom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/chakras-and-the-word-of-wisdom/) - D&C 89:1 refers to the WoW as: A Word OF Wisdom, for the benefit of the council of high priests, assembled in Kirtland, and the church, and also the saints in Zion—To be sent greeting; not by commandment or constraint, but by revelation and the word of wisdom, showing forth the order and will of
- [Glenn Beck, Gold and Moroni's Promise](https://www.mormonmatters.org/glenn-beck-gold-and-moronis-promise/) - Wow. The Daily Show With Jon Stewart Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c Beck - Not So Mellow Gold www.thedailyshow.com Listen for Moroni's promise at the end. Crazy....almost scary stuff. Only one question: Are the brethren worried? (about Glenn Beck generally, not about gold specifically)
- [The Bloggernacle Song (inspired by Adam Sandler)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-bloggernacle-song-inspired-by-adam-sandler/) - There's been a lot of buzz about Senator Hatch's Hanukkah Song, and The Tonight Show's Mormon Song. I don't think either one of them can beat Adam Sandler's Hanukkah Song for sheer chutzpah! I also love versions two and three, and the Mormon Fireside Song which parodies it. That's why Mormon Matters presents, for your
- [The NDE and its Interpretation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-nde-and-its-interpretation/) - I've delayed publishing this essay for several months due to the fact that, the more I seem to learn about this subject, the more I know that I don't know. I suppose it's that way with anything. However, it's a subject that I think is absolutely remarkable in its implications. You've seen them on talk
- [EQ to HPG:  Rites of Passage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/eq-to-hpg-rites-of-passage/) - Whether you are 18 or 88, married, single, widowed, or divorced, with or without kids, and regardless of your socio-economic status, if you are an active LDS woman, you are in Relief Society. Not so for the men. I will freely acknowledge that being a woman in the church and bringing up a question about Priesthood practices
- ['Christmas' or 'Winter Festival': I'm not sure I care!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/christmas-or-winter-festival-im-not-sure-i-care/) - This must be the the third year that I have heard people bemoan government plans to change the name of Christmas to 'Winter Festival' or some such other variant. A little research shows that this is unfounded, in most cases, and seems linked to a gentleman named Bill O'Reilly, but there has been some rumours bubbling in
- [A Child Is Born In Bukavu    ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-child-is-born-in-bukavu/) - A Christmas message, by today's guest poster, mormongandhi. A child is born in Bukavu A child is born in Bukavu, and sadness fills his mother’s heart... Bukavu is not the city of David. It is a town in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. War has been ravaging the country for years. Ever
- [Temple Wedding Petition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/temple-wedding-petition/) - A temple wedding petition to is being circulated to promote love and happiness in the family by changing the church's stance on civil marriages preceding temple weddings. The petition requests that the leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints make it acceptable to have a civil marriage ceremony first, if desired, and then
- [ Like a Virgin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/like-a-virgin/) - This post is a response to Aaron Shafovaloff over at Mormon Coffee. If you go to enjoy the lights on Temple Square, you are likely to see him striking up gospel conversations. From viewing Aaron's video of himself witnessing at Temple Square I'm getting the feeling that he wants us to believe that if something
- [A New Strategy for Preserving the Sanctity of Marriage!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-new-strategy-for-preserving-the-sanctity-of-marriage/) - Marriage is arguably one of the most important topics in all of Mormonism. It is considered ordained of God (PoF), temple marriages are sealed through the Melchizedek Priesthood, and it's considered required for Mormon exaltation (D&C 132). The importance of marriage has led the church, in several situations, to support legislation to preserve the sanctity
- [12 Days of Christmas and 3 Kings Day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/12-days-of-christmas-and-3-kings-day/) - Everyone is familiar with the Twelve Days of Christmas. It's a funny song where the gift-giver gives strange gifts of "lords a leaping", and various birds, including turtledoves and a "partridge in a pear tree." (Really, who would want all those birds?) With the 12 days of Christmas, it seems the gifts are given the
- [The Church in 20 Years](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-church-in-20-years/) - Where do you see the Church in 20 years? Today's guest post is by David Heap.19 predictions about the church 20 years from now: probably Elder Oaks or Elder Holland will be, or will have been,president by then. I hope, by that time, the Lord will have seen fit to call one or two non-caucasians
- [Have you ever received a Christmas card from the First Presidency?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/have-you-ever-received-a-christmas-card-from-the-first-presidency/) - This year I received a Christmas card from the First Presidency. I have heard that Church employees get one, but it has not been my experience so far. Nor did it occur to me that I would get one. I received it with a DVD for the youth of our ward. I cannot tell whether
- [Finding Meaning in Suffering: Part 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/finding-meaning-in-suffering/) - Two of the writers I have come to admire most over the last year have both said that they do not believe all suffering is meaningful, but I struggle to accept that emotionally even though it makes sense intellectually. Lowell Bennion was once asked about suffering and he replied ‘I haven’t suffered that much, but
- [Brother Brigham Brother Young](https://www.mormonmatters.org/brother-brigham-brother-young/) - Recently I drove up Little Cottonwood Canyon with my brother and nephew. This is the canyon in which many of your ancestors pulled out the granite for the construction of the salt lake temple. As soon as we passed the granite facings on the side of the canyon my nephew played a song on his
- [Is it all really vanity?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-it-all-really-vanity/) - Oh the vanity and frailty and foolishness of men, for when they are learned they think they are wise ... Ok, I cheated and updated the language a little, and did not make it gender inclusive at the same time, but, seriously. As you read the bloggernacle, where do you think people are following foolishness
- [Feminist Paul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/feminist-paul/) - I've been reading translator's notes and development comments on the NET Bible. The section on gender accurate vs. gender inclusive has been interesting, since they finish up with some examples of what Paul wrote. Psalm 36:1 is written "There is no fear of God before his eyes" while Paul quotes it in Romans 3:18 as
- [Really Elder McConkie?  You think Education is Worship!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/really-elder-mcconkie-you-think-education-is-worship/) - From an outsiders perspective, Mormon worship services may be perceived as lacking actual worship. We spend two and a half of our three hours in classes or listening to sermons. We have (maybe) half an hour of singing (most of it - in my ward at least - resembles a death march) and ordinances. Even our
- [A Different Perspective on the Wise Men](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-different-perspective-on-the-wise-men/) - The Wise Men are a big part of the Christmas story. Oddly, they come in and disappear. The Bible seems to indicate that they were not Jews, and they came from the east. I came across a DVD called Mystery of the Three Kings by Questar Entertainment. I thought it brings up some really interesting
- [Visual, Auditory, and Kinesthetic Revelation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/visual-auditory-and-kinesthetic-revelation/) - Visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners are so named because they respond to learning in different ways. Visual learners are responsive to stimuli they can see. Auditory learners do well in traditional classrooms because they learn by hearing. Kinesthetic learners grasp concepts better when they can feel and handle models of the material being taught. I
- [Twilight Poll:  Anti-Feminism or Fanciful Fiction?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/twilight-poll-anti-feminism-or-fanciful-fiction/) - Because of the New Moon movie, Twilight is getting a lot of discussion in the media. Since the author, Stephanie Meyer, is LDS, a few articles have even taken a swipe at Mormon values, expressing the opinion that the unenlightened choices of the female lead are typical for patriarchal, female-disempowering Mormons. Read on, and then
- [Anish Kapoor on Spirituality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/anish-kapoor-on-spirituality/) - On the BBC, there is a great series of Art documentaries entitled 'Imagine'. Alan Yentob, a Television Executive, presents them and in the most recent, as of 18th Nov 2009, Yentob interviews and discusses the work of Anish Kapoor. People will recognise his sculptures without necessarily remembering his name, perhaps the height of fame for
- [Mormon Blogs - What's OK?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-blogs-whats-ok/) - What should be acceptable for a blog to be considered a "Mormon" blog? All Mormon content? Only that which is respectful to the church (not anti)? Is hate speech allowed, and if so, how is it defined? How would you decide something should not be considered a "Mormon" blog? The aggregator Mormon Blogs recently quit
- [Peruvian Setting for the Book of Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/peruvian-setting-for-the-book-of-mormon/) - It's been some time since we talked about alternative Book of Mormon geography theories. For those new to the site, you may want to see some of these other theories I mentioned: Malay, and South America. From time to time, I get an email from George Potter. He has a website called the Nephi Project.
- [What are your leisure pursuits?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-are-your-leisure-pursuits/) - I feel the bloggernacle gets a little obsessive and potentially can take over all the aspects of our lives. We start to see all our life through a Mormon filter. I was just curious what a lot of you do during your free time? I recently met Jeff Spector a fellow blogger over here in
- [Is Morality Universal?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-morality-universal/) - Is morality a social construct or is it universal, transcending time and culture? Or is it a little bit of both? Read on to find out more about what we call "morality." Religions often act as "morality delivery systems." According to Jonathan Haidt in an NYT article titled "The Moral Instinct," morality has 3 traits: Morality must
- [Conflict, peace and peacemaking.  The LDS difference.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/conflict-peace-and-peacemaking-the-lds-difference/) - I was looking at a news item. Canadian School of Peacebuilding Research studies verify what experience tells us: the majority of Christian congregations endure internal conflict. At any given time, one fifth of congregations are engaged in serious conflict. Conflict is a fact of congregational life that can be skillfully or awkwardly managed. This course
- [A British Thanksgiving (on the Down-Low)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-british-thanksgiving-on-the-down-low/) - This is kind-of an impromptu post and so I hope you can forgive the intrusion. But, I love Thanksgiving. Ever since I celebrated it for the first time as a missionary I was hooked. Good food. Fun. Gratitude. Consequently I decided that I would want to continue that tradition as best I could for my family.
- [The Single Mormon Girl and the Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-single-mormon-girl-and-the-priesthood/) - Everybody blogs, right? Why not me? Looking for my niche, my angle, and the one thing that seemed to make me stand out in my corner of the world. I found it: Being single. And 40. And Mormon. In a family ward. In a town where EVERYONE is under 30, sealed in the temple and
- [Perspective](https://www.mormonmatters.org/perspective/) - Everybody blogs, right? Why not me? Looking for my niche, my angle, and the one thing that seemed to make me stand out in my corner of the world. I found it: Being single. And 40. And Mormon. In a family ward. In a town where EVERYONE is under 30, sealed in the temple and
- [10 LDS Things I'm Thankful for](https://www.mormonmatters.org/10-lds-things-im-thankful-for/) - Thanksgiving is, IMO, the perfect holiday: good food, a day off work, and no presents to worry about. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I wanted to post 10 Things I'm Thankful for about the church and ask that each of you share what you are thankful for. While there's a tendency at times in the
- [Is New Moon the New Cool? -By Amita Benedetti](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-new-moon-the-new-cool-by-amita-benedetti/) - For anyone vaguely familiar with the Latter-day Saints, the many parallels between the Twilight Saga and the Church’s theology will be apparent. As a mother of two and full-time secondary school teacher, I was adamant not to read the novels in spite of having been asked, begged and ordered a countless number of times this
- [Elder Holland Publicly Denounces Past Racist Teachings by LDS Church Leaders](https://www.mormonmatters.org/elder-holland-publicly-denounces-past-lds-racist-teachings-by-general-authorities/) - “One clear-cut position is that the folklore must never be perpetuated. … I have to concede to my earlier colleagues. … They, I’m sure, in their own way, were doing the best they knew to give shape to [the policy], to give context for it, to give even history to it. All I can say
- [Musings on Modesty & Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/musings-on-modesty-mormonism/) - Today's guest post is from Reuben Collins who also blogs at Single Speed. The 2001 version of the For The Strength of Youth pamplet distributed to all LDS teens says the following regarding modesty: ...Never lower your dress standards for any occasion. Doing so sends the message that you are using your body to get attention
- [Time to Study The Old Testament...Again - Part 2, The Books](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament-again-part-2-the-books/) - In this part 2 of the Studying the Old Testament series, we will discuss the books of the Old Testament, how they were organized, different books contained in different bibles, and extra-biblical books. The Books You would think that for scriptures as old as the Old Testament is that everyone would agree on what books
- [Michael Smith Suspended for Iran Comments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/michael-smith-suspended-for-iran-comments/) - Ok, I am when someone who get bothered when someone makes disparaging comments about another ethnic group. Fox suspended LA Clippers announcers Ralph Lawler and Michael Smith for one game because of one email from "a viewer who e-mailed Fox to complain." Give me a break. Please, what is so offensive about this conversation? The
- [A Bloggernacle Church Handbook of Instruction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-bloggernacle-church-handbook-of-instruction/) - Just recently I was re-reading an essay by Eugene England entitled 'On Finding Truth and God'. It has been something that has helped me deal with, or rather live with, my own doubts. So helpful in fact I would consider passing it on to someone who is having their own difficulties and struggles. It occurred
- [Death to the World!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/death-to-the-world/) - In my endless search for connections between faith and music, I came across a stark and beautiful sight last month. First of all, I finally bought a Sleep album after knowing about them for years. Sleep is a sludgy, brutal Doom/Stoner Metal band from the early '90s, and I really can't explain why I love
- [Romantic Paternalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/romantic-paternalism/) - Mormon Matters welcomes our newest guest poster. Kate Kelly graduated from Brigham Young University with a BA in Political Science. She served a mission for the church in Barcelona, Spain. She is currently in law school at American University’s Washington College of Law, the only law school in the nation world founded by women. She
- [Agency and the Plan of Salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/agency-and-the-plan/) - Before the world was, so say the prophets and prophetesses, our spirits dwelt in a heavenly sphere. As the world was to be made, the two eldest spirits came before heaven’s host assembled and presented two grand plans for our future mortality. The vision of the first was one of unity, a chorus of souls
- [Utah Happiest State in Nation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/utah-happiest-state-in-nation/) - Andrew Ainsworth did a post back in March wondering if Mormon Culture is Depressing Utahns? If we can blame depression on Mormon Culture, apparently it is fair game to blame Mormon Culture for making Utah the Happiest State in the nation, according to this MSNBC article. Let's look at the Top 10: Here are the
- [To Those Struggling In Their Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/to-those-struggling-in-their-faith/) - There are many within Mormonism who struggle daily with their faith. They have been exposed to historical information they were not aware of, they were torn in political battle, they dislike the culture, or in some other way awoke to a "reality" they had not known before. It can be a lonely place in a
- [Unleashing the Analyst.  A Personal Story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/6741/) - As I have already posted a few times, I think it's time I introduce myself. So, this is my story, Mormon Story style (only without the cool podcast, John, and well...okay, it's nothing like Mormon Stories). It's likely familiar to many, so if it sounds like Déjà Vu feel free to move along! Background A
- [A Personal Interpretation of Elder Hafen's Remarks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-non-analysis-of-elder-hafens-remarks/) - At the Evergreen conference held September 18-19, 2009, Elder Bruce Hafen gave a talk regarding homosexuality. The talk was reprinted on the official LDS Church Newsroom website. I will not synopsize the talk here but I suggest reading it yourself. Within a very short time, for obvious reasons, the bloggernacle was dissecting and analyzing the
- [Historicity Redux](https://www.mormonmatters.org/historicity-redux/) - Here's an article from a recent Mormon Times: http://mormontimes.com/studies_doctrine/research_discoveries/?id=11607 I was intrigued by this story. John L. Sorenson has lots of books in print. He's never had a problem finding a publisher before. If the book is all he says it is, why isn't Deseret Book jumping on it? Why isn't the Neal A. Maxwell
- [Time to Study the Old Testament……..Again - Part 1 - Introduction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-to-study-the-old-testament……-again-part-1-introduction/) - As part of the four-year LDS Sunday School study cycle, it is time to open up that voluminous book known as the Old Testament. Many in the Christian community, including LDS, question the value of even studying the Old Testament. After all, they say, "we have the New Testament, which is Christ's teachings to us."
- [What is the Final Destination for Apostates and Ex-Mormons?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-the-final-destination-for-apostates-and-ex-mormons/) - I've always taken it as a given that Mormonism's view of the afterlife shuffle has always been more universalizing than most of the other alternatives. Our formulation of heaven intuitively accommodates for the varying levels of understanding people can achieve in this life and in the spirit world: instead of a binary -- heaven and
- [Whether by my own voice ...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/whether-by-my-own-voice/) - My word shall not pass away, but shall all be fulfilled, whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same. I always read that to say that it did not matter if God fulfilled his words directly, or through his servants, it was the same. The first time
- [Carthage Conspiracy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/carthage-conspiracy/) - *Note--This was posted this morning. Due to a technical glitch, it was erased. Some comments may have been erased from this morning as well. I am re-posting it this evening. As you search across the bloggernacle, sometimes you'll find antagonists who take great issue with the fact that a gun was smuggled to Joseph Smith
- [Levi Savage, William Kimball and the Mystery of Redemption](https://www.mormonmatters.org/levi-savage-william-kimball-and-the-mystery-of-redemption/) - At the outset I should state that I do not think this is a very good title, but it is the only thing I could come up with. So forgive me if it is mis-leading. The Willie Handcart Company has rightfully become one of the scenes from early Mormon history that speaks to the tradegy
- [Freedom and Honesty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/freedom-and-honesty/) - I was reading and I came across the following, years ago, and then again recently. We need complete freedom to express our honest feelings [to God] ... Freedom is an essential factor in the healing process because recovery is based on the practice of honest with ourselves and with [God]. Who, besides God and ourselves,
- [Women's Studies at BYU: Parity or Parody?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/womens-studies-at-byu-parity-or-parody/) - When I first discovered that BYU had announced the closing of their Women's Research Institute, I was appalled, as were many interested parties both on campus and off. I sat down immediately to write a post on the subject, but soon I was brought up short. On Tuesday, when I heard the news, there were
- [Eternal Progression and The Evolution of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/eternal-progression-and-the-evolution-of-god/) - As part of a discussion group, I have been reading Robert Wright's The Evolution of God. My group isn't anywhere near finished (the "heart" of the book focuses on the three major Abrahamic religions -- Judaism, Christianity, and Islam -- yet we've only finished through the part on Judaism that sets the stage for Christianity),
- [The Whole Enchilada](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-whole-enchilada/) - Guest post by Paul Swenson So what? So, what if I'm one of those cafeteria Mormons? No offense. More like it makes some sense, since my Mormor (Swedish for maternal grandmother) ran a cafeteria, and had to forgo coffee (drinking it, serving it) just to join the Mormon church. Just because she gave up caffeine
- [Slandering the Lost Sheep](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-there-such-thing-as-a-good-faith-falling-away/) - When I talk to Mormon friends, occasionally someone will mention a mutual friend or acquaintance who claims to have left the LDS Church because of theological differences or personal revelation. In those conversations, someone will usually say something like this: "He's either cheating on his wife, addicted to porn, or gay." There seems to be
- [Examining the Church's Political Neutrality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/examining-the-churchs-political-neutrality/) - neu-tral /ˈnutrəl, ˈnyu-/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [noo-truhl] -adjective: not taking part or giving assistance in a dispute or war between others. (Random House Dictionary.) * * * * * Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set
- ["Save Kolob": Church News Says Book of Abraham "Not Central to the Restored Gospel"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/save-kolob-church-news-downplays-significance-of-book-of-abraham/) - High Priests Groups world-wide are still reeling at the Church News' announcement that questions surrounding the accuracy and authenticity of the Book of Abraham are not as important as critics suggest because the book "is not central to the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ" despite its inclusion in the canonized LDS Standard Works. (Read Church
- [Did Elder Holland Denounce or Carefully Avoid the "Inspired Fiction" Theory?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/did-elder-holland-denounce-or-intentionally-avoid-the-inspired-fiction-theory/) - If someone can find something in the Book of Mormon, anything that they love or respond to or find dear, I applaud that and say more power to you. That's what I find, too. And that should not in any way discount somebody's liking a passage here or a passage there or the whole idea
- [God's Dilemma](https://www.mormonmatters.org/gods-dilemma/) - "We thought that we had the answers. It was the questions we had wrong." -U2, 11 O'Clock Tick Tock Lately I've been thinking a lot about the dilemmas God must encounter on an almost daily basis when His children ask Him questions that are based on a host of false assumptions and man-made concepts. I'm
- [Why Faith Needs Reason](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-faith-needs-reason/) - The tragedy of 9/11 had a big impact on my views about the relationship between faith and reason. As I watched the video footage of the jumbo jets flying into the World Trade Center towers over and over again, it dawned on me that I was witnessing the destructive power of faith unchecked by reason.
- [Similarities between Lehi and the Lemba](https://www.mormonmatters.org/similarities-between-lehi-and-the-lemba/) - The History Channel has a show called "Digging for the Truth." In season 1, they did an episode called "The Lost Tribe of Israel", which highlighted the Lemba Tribe in South Africa. This group claims to be a Hebrew people who were displaced around 700 BC, about 100 years before Lehi left Jerusalem. I couldn't
- [Evidences and Reconciliations (6/30/08)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/evidences-and-reconciliations-63008/) - And when the priests left their labor to impart the word of God unto the people, the people also left their labors to hear the word of God. And when the priest had imparted unto them the word of God they all returned again diligently unto their labors; and the priest, not esteeming himself above
- ["Knowing" It All](https://www.mormonmatters.org/knowing-it-all/) - Mormons love to use the word "know." We say we know God lives. We say we know that Jesus is the Christ. We say we know that families can be together forever. Some say that they know the church is true or that Thomas S. Monson is a true prophet (the middle initial makes him
- [Remembering the Howard Hughes "Mormon Will"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/remembering-the-howard-hughes-mormon-will/) - Back in 1976, it looked like the LDS Church was going to enjoy a $156 million windfall. The reason? It was the death of billionaire industrialist Howard Hughes, who apparently executed a will leaving one-sixteenth of his estate to the Mormon Church and another one-sixteenth to a man named Melvin Dummar. The claim, which was
- [Secular Learning and 'Correlation'](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-church-and-secular-learning/) - In a 1926 Improvement Era the M.I.A. reading course included four books: 'The Book of Mormon, 50c; by mail, 60c. Prophecies of Joseph Smith and Their Fulfilment, by Nephi L. Morris, $1.50; by mail, $1.50. Hugh Wynne, a novel, by S. Weir Mitchell, $1.25; by mail, $1.35. Wild Life in the Rockies, Enos A. Mills,
- [Where the Wild Mormons Are](https://www.mormonmatters.org/where-the-wild-mormons-are/) - I took my 10-year-old and 2 friends to see the movie "Where the Wild Things Are," and I watched enthralled as they yawned, ate candy, threw popcorn, and cheered when it was finally over. Apparently the film didn't contain the action required to capture their attention. But I found much to ponder and enjoy. "I
- [Book Review:  Exploring the Connection Between Mormons and Masons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/book-review-exploring-the-connection-between-mormons-and-masons/) - Those who know me understand that this book would be of interest to me. My experience reviewing it led to some trains of thought that I'd love to explore with others here. In posting the below review, I'm hoping to spur some discussion along the following lines: Discussion of the book and/or the review Discussion
- [The Church of the Big Bang](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-church-of-the-big-bang/) - I remember a remarkable conversation I once had with another Elder when I was a missionary. He and I had been talking about the relationship between God and science, which was a notoriously hot topic in my mission. Darwin is a dirty word in West Texas, and words like "radiometric dating" and "natural selection" aren't
- [Ghosts:  What Are They?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ghosts-a-poll/) - Do you believe in ghosts? Have you ever had a ghostly encounter? If you do believe in ghosts, what do you think they are doing? Why are they hanging around? Aside from psychics, who seem to be able to sense ghosts everywhere, ghost sightings seem traceable to some commonalities: Bad photography. If you look at
- [Pres Monson Accepts Honor From "School of the Prophets"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/pres-monson-accepts-honor-from-school-of-the-prophets/) - I saw this interesting photo in the Deseret News today, and just had to share. In the paper edition of the Deseret News, President Monson was "honored as the distinguished University of Utah fan of the game." Pres Monson's attendance may have been a deciding factor--the Utes won 23-16 in Overtime over the Air Force
- [De-centralising the Spirit: Between Charisma and Bureaucracy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/de-centralising-the-spirit-between-charisma-and-bureaucracy/) - In a lecture entitled ‘A Historian’s Perspective on Joseph Smith’, Richard Bushman shows an interesting trend in religious cultures that surrounded Joseph Smith. This trend centers around the tension between the Charismatic gifts and the Bureaucracy which contain them. I had an experience six months ago that made me realise that there is, in my view,
- [The Church's Litigators](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-churchs-litigators/) - Remember Kenneth Starr? He was the former judge-turned-special-prosecutor who tried to drive Bill Clinton out of office with tawdry tales involving the President's dalliance with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. The LDS Church hired Starr, now the dean at Pepperdine Law School, more recently to promote their equities in the California state skirmishes over same-sex
- [The stories we tell](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-stories-we-tell-2/) - In sacrament the speaker told a story about a young man who stood up, eventually, against his friends for a disabled schoolmate. That made me think about my oldest child, sweet and mild mannered. She did the same thing, though on the first event when her social clique was planning a nasty trick. Unlike the
- [1968-1970: The Civil Rights Movement Comes to BYU](https://www.mormonmatters.org/1968-1970-the-civil-rights-movement-comes-to-byu/) - The 1960s was a time of turmoil in the United States. This turmoil extended to American college campuses. It focused on the Free Speech Movement and civil rights in the south, and gradually extended to the U.S. involvement in the war in Southeast Asia. Some American colleges remained unmolested by the times. One was Brigham Young University.
- [Vagueness as a Gospel Principle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/vagueness-as-a-gospel-principle/) - "For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward. Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own
- [Was Jesus a Buddhist?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/was-jesus-a-buddhist/) - The NT doesn't give much insight into Jesus' life between age 12 and 30. Did he encounter Buddhism and seek personal enlightenment? Or are these ideas just inherently the best ones humanity will continue to stumble upon in our spiritual lives? Buddha was a teacher who lived over 500 years before Christ. The influence of
- [Egon Friedell and the Christian 'Bad Conscience'](https://www.mormonmatters.org/egon-friedell-and-the-christian-bad-conscience/) - This photograph was taken by Sebastiao Salgado at a gold mine in Brazil. I first saw it in a room at the University I attend. As an idealistic and aspiring academic I felt moved by the raw power of the worker as he resisted the guard. Ever since then I have had a copy of this picture
- [It Is Possible to Effect Some Changes in Your Stake](https://www.mormonmatters.org/it-is-possible-to-effect-some-changes-in-your-stake/) - I've enjoyed Andrew Ainsworth's recent posts on (1) being a loving critic of the church, (2) in a way that doesn't get you excommunicated. I thought they were very insightful. I also enjoyed Stephen Marsh's post asking if we want to be an improver. In Andrew's 2nd post, he mentions the option of privately expressing
- [Can Mormons Be Fair Judges and Jurors?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/can-mormons-be-fair-judges-and-jurors/) - The task was simple. Get a list of the area's religions and invite them to a Cobb County Planning Commission meeting. The clerk went to the Yellow Pages and did her job, with one exception. She intentionally passed over three entries in the directory: the Muslims, the Jehovah's Witnesses, and the Mormons [1]. The Muslims,
- [Shlomo: A Key to Peace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/shlomo-a-key-to-peace/) - In today's economy, you have to be really sharp to stand out over all those other applicants competing for the job you want. For example, I've heard that the following was a question used as part of a job application, designed to test good judgment: “You’re driving down a winding, rain-slicked road on a dangerous,
- [Approaching Isaiah 58: Fasting as a Spiritual Practice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/on-fasting/) - Sometime ago Jana Reiss wrote a column for Sunstone entitled ‘Mormonism as Praxis’[1] in which the writers attempted to explore what Mormonism means in terms of 'spiritual practices'. Jana, in a Sunstone podcast with Dan Wotherspoon, has explained that one of her main interests is trying to understand how these spiritual practices can become effective
- [White Noise](https://www.mormonmatters.org/white-noise/) - Everybody blogs, right? Why not me? Looking for my niche, my angle, and the one thing that seemed to make me stand out in my corner of the world. I found it: Being single. And 40. And Mormon. In a family ward. In a town where EVERYONE is under 30, sealed in the temple and
- [So you want to be an improver?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/so-you-want-to-be-an-improver/) - There are two types of people who try to improve organizations from the outside of hierarchies. Those who volunteer and those who are asked for their help. As to volunteers, if you think the pure mass of blog commenters is overwhelming (think how many people make a suggestion or have comments that are ignored on
- [Mormons, Free Exercise, and Unrighteous Litigation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormons-free-exercise-and-unrighteous-litigation/) - John Boyle was offended that his country club scheduled golf tournaments on Sunday. He was a Mormon who kept the Sabbath day holy. So he sued. Boyle v. Jerome Country Club, 883 F Supp 1422 (D.Id. 1995) Christina Axson-Flynn was studying acting at the University of Utah. A Mormon, she was uncomfortable that the school's
- [A Jungian View of the First Vision](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-jungian-view-of-the-first-vision/) - The First Vision is often viewed as a literal visit from two Heavenly beings during Joseph Smith's waking hours. Yet, he consistently refers to it as a vision. Often, visions in scripture are vivid dreams with meaning that is applied to the larger organization rather than just the individual. What if the First Vision is more
- [Ardi and the Rise of Mormon Symbology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ardi-and-the-rise-of-mormon-symbology/) - With the advance of science and the study of more and more artifacts such as Ardipithecus ramidus, believing Mormons are faced with a challenge which becomes stronger with each discovery. Although the Church has never taken a firm doctrinal stance on the mechanics of evolution, there has been an authoritative definition on the nature and
- [Common Consent: Democracy or Prophetocracy?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/common-consent-democracy-or-prophetocracy/) - At 10:00am on a brisk August morning in 1844 Sidney Rigdon addressed the Saints. Brigham Young spoke briefly before the break and at length in the afternoon, at which point they voted for a new leader. Arrington notes that the response was almost unanimous, but the subsequent disaffection from the Church shows that not all was
- [Saturday Session Thoughts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/saturday-session-thoughts/) - These are just a few quick observations from today's sessions, not every talk, though, nor every observation. I also want to direct attention to the excellent notes by Mme. Curie. E. Scott The porn warning, usually reserved for Priesthood session, goes mainstream. Sisters, this is what equality feels like! The analogy of trying to taste
- [Family Court, Mormon Style](https://www.mormonmatters.org/family-court-mormon-style/) - In Maine, Judge Clapp was not pleased. The sarcastic comment he made at an October 6, 1998 custody hearing would get him in trouble. He would ultimately face accusations that he harbored anti-Mormon animus. Well which church? There seems to be a lock on the Mormon Church in this case ... which we all know
- [Mormons and Intellectual Property](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormons-and-intellectual-property/) - One might think that property, a uniquely secular notion, has no truck with ecclesiastic authorities. After all, there's supposedly no property in Heaven. Instead, everything is free up there, and there's no such thing exclusive use and the right to refuse. Jesus said .... never mind. To show how daft the notion of property is
- [Nuclear Disarmament Meets Mormon Patriotism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/nuclear-disarmament-meets-mormon-patriotism/) - Lately more and more Church members have begun to wonder why the Church is so supportive of the United States military. We've experienced a long tradition of this, beginning with the Mormon Battalion in 1846. When the U.S. Army requested 500 men to join the service in the conflict with Mexico, Brigham Young responded positively
- [Great Expectations: What Are Your Hopes and Predictions for General Conference?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/great-expectations-what-are-your-hopes-and-predictions-for-general-conference/) - "It's the MOST WONderful TIIIME of the YEARRRRRR." The leaves are starting to change color. The evenings and mornings are a bit crisper. Even the birds' singing suddenly sounds sweeter than ever. General Conference must be coming this weekend. Twice a year, I can't help formulating hopes and expectations, or making predictions about what we
- [Worthiness Interviews:  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/worthiness-interviews-a-poll/) - There has been a lot of discussion in the b'nacle about the worthiness interviews routinely conducted by members of the bishopric with the young men and young women. In general, there seems to be some hand-wringing about this practice. In your opinion, is it appropriate for an older man to be alone with a young
- [In Praise of Elder Packer: 'Let Them Govern Themselves'](https://www.mormonmatters.org/in-praise-of-elder-packer-let-them-govern-themselves/) - It might just be the posts that I read, but Boyd K. Packer is not the most popular of Apostles in the Bloggernacle (or perhaps among liberal Mormons more generally). I acknowledge that this is a speculative impression. At the very least, I have heard Elder Packer criticised at Sunstone and on the Bloggernacle on a few
- [Trading Polygamy for Statehood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/trading-polygamy-for-statehood/) - If one searches around the bloggernacle, you'll find a snarky comment about how the church traded polygamy for statehood, or that the church just wimped-out on polygamy. Such comments don't seem to take into account how much pressure the US government was putting on the church--it was literally trying to snuff it out if the
- [The Church and the IRS](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-church-and-the-irs/) - Thomas Vaughn Barlow really does not like the IRS. On June 8, 2007, he sent it a letter, which stated: This means that if you do not answer me lawfully and take my money or property or in any way continue to harass me or fail to assure me of my being secure in my
- ["Moderation in All Things":  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/moderation-in-all-things-a-poll/) - The phrase, "moderation in all things" is a euphemism usually (but not exclusively) associated (by Mormons at least)with the Word of Wisdom. It usually means that we should not go too far, one way or the other, in abstaining to the point of becoming an ascetic or in indulging to the point of becoming an
- ['I really think it would be best if you ended your remarks at this point?'](https://www.mormonmatters.org/i-really-think-it-would-be-best-if-you-ended-your-remarks-at-this-point/) - John Remy posted an interesting blog/video where a man, speaking about his concern with the Church's practice and policy during the Prop 8 debate, was asked by the Bishop to stop. The man protested and was allowed to finish but the Microphone was turned off. What would make you ask someone to sit down? I
- [The Growing Mormon Sex Abuse Scandal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-growing-mormon-sex-abuse-scandal/) - The chagrin would be immediate from reading these words in a law book: For five years, in defendant's capacity as a schoolteacher, neighbor, and secretary to the Bishop of the Mormon Church, defendant molested numerous boys in Santa Clara County. As charged in this case, he touched the private parts of four boys who knew
- [LDS Grass-Roots Interpretations of the Eve Archetype](https://www.mormonmatters.org/7512/) - Since Eve is one of the most powerful archetypes for women, it's not surprising that this story is at the root of many discussions of womanhood. Feminists have generally been dissatisfied with how the biblical Eve story has affected values and attitudes toward women over the centuries. Early exegesis of the creation story became the
- [On Agency and Accountability: An Inter-dependent View](https://www.mormonmatters.org/on-agency-and-accountability-an-inter-dependent-view/) - Jeff Spector wrote a post on Agency a few months ago which I enjoyed alot. The discussion led me down a slightly different path and I wanted to write a supplement to his ideas in light of some of my own thoughts on agency and how they relate to accountability. My major contention is that the
- [Is The Church Sacrificing Principle for Profit With Hunting Preserves?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-the-church-sacrificing-principle-for-profit-with-hunting-preserves/) - "To what degree should the principle of 'respect for life" be extended to bird and animal creations? What do the scriptures, Joseph Smith, and other early Church leaders teach about the grand design and purposes of God's non-human creations? Does having "dominion" over the kingdom of creatures mean we are their predators and exploiters or
- [Lessons from the BYU Women's Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lessons-from-the-byu-womens-conference/) - Some people know that my wife spoke one year at the conference. What they usually don't know is that they found my wife because the person in charge knew us from the BYU law school, where the person in charge was an assistant dean. She was kind enough to spend time talking with us about
- [Bringing Out The Delusional](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bringing-out-the-delusional/) - As I am hardly the model of mental health myself, I am generally loathe to describe others as crazy. However, one cannot read all of the American court opinions involving the Mormon Church - as I have been doing over the last year or so - without being struck by how many of them involve
- ["Ich Bin Ein Pioneer"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ich-bin-ein-pioneer/) - This post was originally scheduled to appear on Pioneer Day, but I had a bit of an accident and had knee surgery the day before, so I was not able to post it. Since we've been discussing pioneers in Sunday School the last couple of weeks, it is, at least, timely for that reason. Many
- [Have you read the Sealed Portion of the Book of Mormon Yet?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/have-you-read-the-sealed-portion-of-the-book-of-mormon-yet/) - Christopher Nemelka has published the sealed portion of the Book or Mormon and has also translated the 116 pages of missing manuscript. His website can be found here. John the Beloved and the Three Nephites use him to present their message to the World. Joseph Smith, himself, gave Christopher the Gold Plates so that he could
- [What Mormon Prisoners Want](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-mormon-prisoners-want/) - In an earlier mormonmatters post (here), I examined the rise of Mormons as criminal defendants in court opinions. Not surprisingly, most LDS criminals do not give up their religious affiliation once they go behind the wall. Instead, they find themselves with plenty of time on their hands. They often use that time to act as
- [Wherein I stop being liberal and start standing up for what I believe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/wherein-i-stop-being-liberal-and-start-standing-up-for-what-i-believe/) - A lot of what I talk about in regard to the church is a reaction against something else. For a period of time my wife even stopped talking to me about Relief Society lessons because of what I would argue or disagree with. After a lot of self-reflection over the past few months, I realized
- [How Our Families Can Help Families Around the World Escape Poverty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-our-families-can-help-families-around-the-world-escape-poverty/) - A year ago my wife and I were struggling to find ways to teach our children the importance of helping those in need, and lamented the fact that despite our knowing there are millions of families around the world who need help, we felt virtually powerless to make any significant difference in their lives. And
- [Scripture Inerrancy, Literalism, and Pres Veazey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/scripture-inerrancy-literalism-and-pres-veazey/) - There are those (especially among Evangelicals) who believe that the Bible is inerrant and literal. For example a scriptural literalist will claim that Noah's flood covered the entire earth. A non-literalist may say that the flood was merely a large localized flood. Pres. Stephen Veazey is the prophet for the Community of Christ, and he
- [Liken All Scriptures: Matthew 7:1-2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/liken-all-scriptures-matthew-71-2/) - [poll id="59"] Please explain your answer.
- [The Surprising Truth About Mormon Employment Discrimination](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-surprising-truth-about-mormon-employment-discrimination/) - Religious discrimination in the workplace is barred in the United States. It has been that way since the 1960s. This prohibition is across the board, and applies whether the employer is a public or private entity. If you discriminate against your employees on the basis of religion, you could easily end up as a defendant
- [My 9/11 Tribute](https://www.mormonmatters.org/my-911-tribute/) - This essay has almost nothing to do with the September 11th attacks. If anything, the attacks that many of us saw only served as a catalyst. I am thinking of 9/11/1857. And the hero? Not a fireman, but rather a lumbering, stuttering, 200-lb councilman from Ft. Johnson, Utah. I recently re-read a chapter from the
- [Mormon Mysticism and the Tarot](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-mysticism-and-the-tarot/) - Andrew's previous post on the Book of Abraham got me thinking about Mormon mysticism and how it has been de-emphasized in the modern Church. In a way I hate to see the status of the Book of Abraham lowered among mainstream Church members because it is the last bastion of Joseph Smith's mystical bent. Mysticism
- [The Sesame Street Approach to Primary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-sesame-street-approach-to-primary/) - The children's television series Sesame Street premiered November 10, 1969. I was just turning 10 years old, so I didn't watch it very much as a child. But in the mid-1980's, with several preschoolers, the show became a staple in our home. Wikipedia describes the program as follows: Sesame Street uses combinations of animation, puppets,
- [Too Much of a Good Thing:  A Birth Control Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/enough-is-enough-a-birth-control-poll/) - Does the church discourage birth control? Are couples encouraged to breed as quickly and frequently as nature allows? Take this poll to share your feelings on the subject. Although Mormons have a less strict stance on birth control than Catholics, this has not always been the case. There have been some anti-birth control statements in the past
- [Mormons Doing Nasty Things](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormons-doing-nasty-things/) - Are Mormons more often criminals than members of other similar religions? This is a question we will never answer with precision. After all, one's religion is not asked when booked for a crime. For an accurate assessment of interreligious rates of criminality, such data would be a necessary condition to doing some per-member calculations. However,
- [John Remy's Been Summoned to a Disciplinary Council for Reported Apostasy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/john-remy-is-being-excommunicated/) - John Remy (an old friend of Mormon Matters) is being summoned to a stake disciplinary council for apostasy. Bummer. Sad. Our love goes out to the Remys. AND to the local church leadership that has to deal w/ this mess. This feels like a lose/lose situation. (Comments closed. Please comment on John's blog if you
- [Narratives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/narratives/) - History seems like a collection of facts, but in reality, most history is a collection of stories that we use to give context to the facts. Often the story details contain more conjecture than fact, but narratives or stories are the way we are able to understand and remember facts. Without narratives, we don't have
- ['A Sacred Silence': Blake Ostler on the Heavenly Mother](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-sacred-silence-blake-ostler-on-the-heavenly-mother/) - In a Sunstone presentation entitled 'A Return to Logic', which discusses Blake Ostler's work, he was asked about the Heavenly Mother. As a fan of Blake's work I wanted to discuss his answer a little here, recognising that it was not a fully formulated or prepared response. The major points of his answer seem to be: firstly,
- [Overseas Persecution of Mormons: A Comparative Analysis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/overseas-persecution-of-mormons-a-comparative-analysis/) - We know that the LDS Church has projected itself around the world through its missionary efforts. This has occurred during a time when U.S. immigration law was becoming more refugee-friendly. Perhaps it is inevitable that we would start to see cases where individual Mormons seek asylum here in the United States, based on fear of
- [Homework Assignment for this Sunday's Testimony Meeting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/homework-assignment-for-this-sundays-testimony-meeting/) - Every now and then, you can find me sitting in testimony meeting with a note card on my lap and a pen in my hand, tallying the number of times that various phrases are repeated. I started doing this on my mission in a particular ward where Jesus' name was notoriously absent from testimony meetings,
- [The Word of Wisdom and animal cruelty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-word-of-wisdom-and-animal-cruelty/) - I had one of those "oh, great" moments today as I was searching the news online. I have "oh, great" moments now and then. For instance, about a week after the semester started here at the University of Kentucky, as I was locking up my bike, I realized none of the other bikes had helmets
- [Is Wrongful Excommunication Legally Redressable?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-wrongful-excommunication-legally-redressable/) - Jeff Breinholt is a lawyer with the U.S. Department of Justice, and a hobbyist legal researcher/writer on cultural issues, including modern American religious movements. We welcome him to Mormon Matters for a series of guest posts on legal issues in Mormonism. Those who follow Mormonism and who worry about its treatment of dissidents might be
- [The Grand Council in Heaven: Re-interpreting an Archetype](https://www.mormonmatters.org/open-forums-and-the-grand-council-in-heaven-interpreting-an-archetype/) - As a fan of Mormon Studies I value the opportunity to discuss and, sometimes, disagree. In this regard, I have been particularly inspired by the vision of J. Bonner Ritchie. He has repeatedly argued for openness and honesty regarding the Mormon Experience. However, I wonder whether Mormon thought really has space for this kind of openness when
- [Do Mormon Kids Understand the Atonement?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-atonement-poll/) - Does the church teach that we are saved by grace or that we are saved by works? This is one of the most oft-repeated criticisms of the Mormon church by other churches, that we don't correctly understand the atonement of Jesus. In a recent talk, the speaker had attended an interesting interview with an evangelical
- [Do We Let the Church Get in the Way of the Gospel?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/do-we-let-the-church-get-in-the-way-of-the-gospel/) - Any church is like an orange: it has sweet, juicy, nourishing fruit (i.e., truths that help people live better lives); and it has a tough, bitter peel that protects the fruit and holds it together (i.e. an organizational structure, prescribed forms of worship, and claims to divine authority). Were it not for its protective institutional
- [A Case for Slavery](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-case-for-slavery/) - A few years ago, John Dehlin did a few podcasts about the Priesthood Ban. I wrote up a post which combined about 3 of John's podcasts (and was nominated for a Niblet), which specifically addressed many of the historical aspects of slavery and the priesthood ban. I was quite surprised to learn that the Territory
- [Prosperity vs. Religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/prosperity-vs-religion/) - There was a great article in Newsweek called (Un)wired For God. It was a follow up on a prior article that had talked about the theory that people are hard-wired for religious belief (pre-disposed through our brain structure to believe in God, the supernatural, etc.) So, first of all, what is meant by being predisposed
- [Taking control of the Mormon conversation -- Another Look at Ballard](https://www.mormonmatters.org/taking-control-of-the-mormon-conversation/) - A few days ago (depending on when I get to publishing this), we had a rather lively discussion about Elder M. Russell Ballard's Engaging Without Being Defensive. Batman highlighted one line in particular from Ballard and then the discussion went from there. Later on, he (that is, Batman, not "the church" or anyone like that)
- [Should Observance Of The Word Of Wisdom Be Necessary For Baptism?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/should-observance-of-the-word-of-wisdom-be-necessary-for-baptism/) - When I was growing up, there was an elderly couple in my ward. The wife had been a faithful, active member for years and the husband, a non-member, attended church with her faithfully every Sunday until he died. From what I remember, he was well-received and well-liked by the people of the ward, but it
- [The New CES Book of Mormon Institute Manual: Part 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-new-ces-book-of-mormon-institute-manual-part-2/) - The Church have just published (although I wrote this from a draft that I had access to before it was published) the new CES Book of Mormon Institute manual and my previous post asked some questions about what people hoped for in content. This post is aimed at trying to develop a brief comparison of the
- [What level of encryption is required to preserve a sacred space? ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-level-of-encryption-is-required-to-preserve-a-sacred-space/) - One of my grandfather’s hobbies was the study of ancient mystery religions, especially Eleusis and Eleusinian Mysteries. One thing that was striking in reading his work was how much we don’t know. The rites continued for thousands of years, but the initiates kept confidences. They abided the social covenant [http://adrr.com/adr2/ethics2.htm]. The same is true of
- [The Book of Mormon and the Prosperity Gospel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-book-of-mormon-and-the-prosperity-gospel/) - So, it seems that some of the other sites in the Bloggernacle have already sidebarred something about this little article from the New York Times about the Prosperity Gospel. A few lines from that article: “God knows where the money is, and he knows how to get the money to you,” preached Mrs. Copeland, dressed
- [Insiders & Outsiders](https://www.mormonmatters.org/insiders-outsiders/) - When it comes to Mormonism, do you feel more like an insider or an outsider? Where you see yourself probably has a lot to do with whether you prefer being an insider or an outsider, and what the tolerance for deviation from the norms is from those with whom you most closely associate. Personal Preference
- [Common Scriptures in Review: Gender & the Sermon on the Mount](https://www.mormonmatters.org/common-scriptures-in-review-the-sermon-on-the-mount/) - I absolutely LOVE the Sermon on the Mount. It is my second favorite passage in all our recorded scripture - right behind the Intercessory Prayer. However, we often forget that it was delivered to . . . his disciples . . . not to the multitude who had gathered because of his fame. In fact,
- [The New CES Book of Mormon Institute Manual: Part 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-new-ces-book-of-mormon-institute-manual-part-1/) - The Church are in the process of publishing an updated version of the Book of Mormon Institute Manual for CES classes. (They seem to be pretty busy at the moment!!!) It should be published by the end of the year. What prompted these changes and what do you hope to see from the new Manual? There
- [The force of history](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-force-of-history/) - I've a friend in the simulations industry, and it almost drives him crazy when he hears about the "force of history" or about how history is cyclic. The one theory is that trends will always move towards the more enlightened position, the other theory is that everything repeats. Both seem to be demonstratively false. Which
- [Belief vs. Action](https://www.mormonmatters.org/belief-vs-action/) - Which is more important - belief or action? Is faith without action better than action without faith? Is belief without action better than acting despite disbelief? Which leads to the better outcome or are both fraught with their own dangers? To illustrate this line of thinking further, suppose for a moment that Tony Soprano has
- [Euthanasia vs. Abortion: Is The Church Inconsistent?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/euthanasia-vs-abortion-is-the-church-inconsistent/) - I know we've already had a good discussion here at Mormon Matters about euthanasia. But as this subject has been on my mind lately, due to the news I got recently that my grandfather has terminal cancer, I was struck by what seems to me as a huge inconsistency on the Church's part if we
- [Highway 61 Re-revisited: Fear and Trembling before Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/highway-61-re-revisited-fear-and-trembling-before-faith/) - Oh God said to Abraham, "Kill me a son" Abe says, "Man, you must be puttin' me on" God say, "No." Abe say, "What?" God say, "You can do what you want Abe, but The next time you see me comin' you better run" Well Abe says, "Where do you want this killin' done?" God
- [What is Endless, Eternal or Everlasting?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-endless-eternal-or-everlasting/) - My apologies to anyone who thinks I'm discussing aleph numbers or SSM. I'm on to something else. When God instituted circumsision with Abraham as an everlasting covenant, how long did that last and did it require Adam to become circumscribed? What about Moses and blood sacrifice? How long did that last? Or Levi and exclusive
- [No Matter What Your Definition...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/no-matter-what-your-definition/) - You’re all invited to attend the Sunstone “Un-Snacker” (Great fellowship and friends, but no food). It will be held on Friday, August 14, 10 PM at the Sheraton SLC, 150 W 500 S. Bloggers from all over the bloggernacle will be in attendance. This is your chance to meet all the “greats” in person!! Hope
- [Intellectualism and Faith:  A Would-Be Marriage!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/intellectualism-and-faith-a-would-be-marriage/) - It is easy to think yourself out of a testimony. It's as simple as saying "well I can't prove God exists, or doesn't exist, therefore I am agnostic." Today's guest post is by jmb275. Since both faith and intellectualism are necessary in our lives, I think it helps to define these terms. Let's start with
- [Spirituality, Rationality, Mentality, Duality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/spirituality-rationality-mentality-duality/) - Today's guest post is by jmb275. In my first guest post, I talked about intellectualism and faith. A few of the commenters pointed out that I had somewhat assumed that we had dual natures - spiritual and rational. The point was mentioned that the term "spirituality" could be loosely defined to be many things -
- [Is Prayer About God?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-prayer-about-god/) - What does prayer mean? What is its purpose in our lives? Today's guest post is from jmb275. For much of my life I really loved the Bible Dictionary definition of prayer. This definition emphasizes our need to communicate with God as His children. More specifically it states: "Prayer is the act by which the will
- [Liars, Damned Liars and Statisticians](https://www.mormonmatters.org/liars-damned-liars-and-statisticians/) - Is the church growing or shrinking? Is it even possible to measure church growth accurately? Is this a case of statistical confirmation bias? Read on to find out more. Matt at the site LDS Church Growth puts forward several different theories that statisticians tend to have about church growth. He groups these into two categories:
- [Gender vs. Sex](https://www.mormonmatters.org/gender-vs-sex/) - The Proclamation on the Family states: "Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose." What is meant by gender? One's biological sex? One's gender identity? The sexual stereotypes and cultural norms associated with one's biological sex? The word gender is constantly in flux in the English language. Here are
- [Apostate = someone who fails to honor his own conscience ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/apostate-someone-who-fails-to-honor-his-own-conscience/) - The third ward verses the seventh ward. Us verses them. Insiders verses outsiders. My buddies and I were third warders. We were full of ourselves. But why wouldn’t we be? Our ward display case was full of softball trophies. Our scouting program was full of Eagle scouts. Our report cards were full of A’s. And
- [A Problem in Understanding Celestial Sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-problem-in-understanding-mormon-sexuality/) - Disclaimer: This may be offensive to some people. I will talk about hetero and homosexuality in relation to understanding a 'celestial sexuality' and whether one of the current views can be applied to paedophiles. Firstly, I should apologise for another post of sexuality; but I guess this is what happens in a sexually repressed culture, we talk
- [How do we earn our morals?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-do-we-earn-our-morals/) - A while back on my blog, Seth R (usually of 9 Moons fame) posted a lengthy and detailed comment about the deficiencies of liberal religion (particularly of a hypothetical liberal Mormon denomination) and also the deficiencies of our current orthodoxy. I took a stab at part of his comment in a post on my blog,
- [Alexander Doniphan and the Limits of Dissent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/alexander-doniphan-and-the-limits-of-dissent/) - The Story of Alexander Doniphan is well-known and probably does not need to be recounted here (For more information see Mormon Heretics Post - A Memorial Day Jack Mormon or see this). Very simply: when a number of the leaders of the Church were threatened with execution the man asked to carry it out, Alexander Doniphan,
- [The Institutionally Unforgivable?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-institutionally-unforgivable/) - The message of the Gospel of Christ could be encapsulated in a few adjectives, such as: love (Charity), repentance, forgiveness and service. But how should we forgive? Should we follow the example of God, who promises his saints that when they repent he will remember those sins no more (D&C 58:42). The Church as an institution does
- [Edward Cullen as Porn Addict ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/edward-cullen-as-porn-addict/) - Hear me out. :) I was talking with a friend recently about addictions. Things like alcohol, caffeine, meth, and heroin (among many other substances) all seem to rob the addict of their free will to some extent. At some point in the conversation we started talking about mythology, and he mentioned how vampires could be
- [Enos Envy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/enos-envy/) - Over my lifetime, I have offered all manner of prayers. These range from earnest, well-intended pleas on behalf of others ("please comfort my sister as she deals with her MS diagnosis") to mundane requests for undeserved assistance ("please help me pass my Spanish pop quiz") to the downright inappropriate ("oh Lord, please let me be
- [Understanding General Authorities, Part Three](https://www.mormonmatters.org/understanding-general-authorities-part-three/) - So assume you were called as a general authority and said yes. What do you think you would do? What would be your concerns? Well, first you would be plunged right into administrative tasks, reorganizing and organizing Stakes. Over and over again you would see a dramatic need for people with ability, temperament and time
- [Why do you go to Church?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-do-you-go-to-church/) - I have left messages on this and other blogs about how boring church can be. This has prompted the question, "Well, if it's so boring, why do you even bother to go?" First of all, let me state that I am a believing Mormon. I believe Joseph Smith was a prophet, I believe in the
- [ Obama and Elvis are cousins](https://www.mormonmatters.org/president-obama-and-elvis-are-cousins/) - President Barack Obama met with President Monson on Monday in the Oval Office, thanking President Monson for a thorough history of the first family. President Monson presented Obama with details of his family's genealogy during their first face-to-face meeting. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Nevada Democrat who is Mormon, helped arrange the meeting and
- [Expounding on Light](https://www.mormonmatters.org/expounding-on-light/) - This is a guest post from Heber13. As a guest author, a brief introduction is appropriate. I am a direct descendant from members of the Martin Handcart company of mormons, however, despite the efforts of my ancestors to make such sacrifices to walk across the plains to get out west, my parents decided to take
- [Will the Real Heretics Please Stand Up?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/will-the-real-heretics-please-stand-up/) - David W. Bercot, a Texas attorney and Evangelical Christian, embarked on a quest to discover what Christians believed and practiced before the Nicene Creed. What he learned caused him to seriously re-evaluate his beliefs, to eventually change his religious affiliation, and to present his findings and analysis in his book Will the Real Heretics Please
- [The Fruits of Guru Nanak](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-fruits-of-guru-nanak/) - I'm not even sure how I got it, surprisingly, but in the short time I lived in Idaho, I received an interesting gem. It's a book called Religions of the World: A Latter-day Saint Perspective, by Spencer J. Palmer. I've always enjoyed books about world religions, especially the obscure and forgotten, but I was expecting
- [What's good in a Bible Translation?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/whats-good-in-a-bible-translation/) - In the church, it seems to be a written rule (or perhaps it's just one of those pesky unwritten orders of things) to use the King James Version or if we are part of those communities, the Joseph Smith Translation (or Inspired Version) of the Bible. Or maybe it's not a rule at all, but
- [Science vs. Religion:  A Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/science-vs-religion-a-poll/) - When there is a seeming conflict between science and religion, people tend to make a mental choice that either favors religion or science. Which is it for you? A recent article in Newsweek talks about this issue. There are some biases inherent in some circles of scientists that are anti-religion. Likewise, there are some biases
- [God is an Ocean](https://www.mormonmatters.org/god-is-an-ocean/) - Yanna the prophetess was sitting under a tree praying and meditating for days and a vision surges over her like a tidal wave of overwhelming, transcendent, divine love and connection to the infinite. A mighty voice of thunder like crashing surf declares to her “I am … that I am. You will declare this message
- [Why I became a Mormon missionary-Reuben Collins](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-i-became-a-mormon-missionary-reuben-collins/) - From June 2000 to July 2002, I served a full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Ohio Cleveland Mission. I'm supposed to say that I served an LDS mission because I loved the gospel and because the prophet commanded me to serve. Or because I prayed about it &
- [There is only one issue in the Bloggernacle and all other things are only appendages to it.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/there-is-only-one-issue-in-the-bloggernacle-and-all-other-things-are-only-appendages-to-it/) - "The fundamental principles of our religion are the testimony of the Apostles and Prophets, concerning Jesus Christ, that He died, was buried, and rose again the third day, and ascended into heaven; and all other things which pertain to our religion are only appendages to it." Joseph Smith —DHC 3:28-30 If Joseph Smith is, correct
- ['The only Power to Punish the Church has ever had'?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-only-power-to-punish-the-church-has-ever-had/) - Hugh Nibley once said "Excommunication... [is] the only power to punish the Church has ever had". Yet, what is the nature of this punishment and why does it need to be used at all? How does excommunicating someone fit with Christ's message to seek out the lost sheep and carry them back?
- [Niblets Poll Closed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/niblets-poll-closed/) - Voting on the Niblets is now closed. Watch for final results and in-depth report by Guest Blogger Ziff to appear Monday!
- [The Doctor Is IN:  An Interview with The Mormon Therapist](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-doctor-is-in-an-interview-with-the-mormon-therapist/) - Natasha Helfer Parker is a licensed therapist who has counseled the LDS community for 12 years. In 2009, she began a blog called The Mormon Therapist, answering questions from readers from the standpoint of a faithful LDS therapist. We were able to get her to answer a few questions about her site, issues Mormons face,
- [Church Doctrine is Like the Bloggernacle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/church-doctrine-is-like-the-bloggernacle/) - Bloggernacle aficionados have been trying to define our little corner of the internet for years now. Everyone has a vague idea of what the term encompasses, and some stand ready to provide a concise definition, but it somehow resists pinning down. In this way, the bloggernacle is quite like Mormon doctrine* itself. In a serious
- [doubt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/doubt/) - A seminary teacher I had in high school is in some BIG trouble. This wasn't just any seminary teacher either. Brother Pratt was one of those teachers who made me feel important every time I talked to him. He inspired many to live good and clean lives. Apparently there are "hundreds" of text messages between
- [The Genius of Mormonism:  Israel is Back, Baby! (POLL incl.)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-genius-of-mormonism-israel-is-back-baby/) - One of the attractive components to Mormon theology was the notion that Mormons were a chosen people, and both figuratively and literally part of the House of Israel. The Book of Mormon also offered the idea that Israel was all over the earth throughout time in various times and places and that they are always
- [Understanding General Authorities, Part II](https://www.mormonmatters.org/understanding-general-authorities-part-ii/) - The current culture of the Church involves a lot of committee work where movement happens only after consensus is reached on most points. Consider, the ideal Stake Presidency acts on any significant point only (a) if they all agree and (b) with complete outward unity. That set of values reflects those above them. The leadership
- [Early Mormonism in Context](https://www.mormonmatters.org/early-mormonism-in-context/) - We tend to view Mormonism in the context of its current contemporaries: Baptists, Catholics, Muslims, Buddhists, and atheists (among many others). But how does Mormonism compare with other religious movements of its time at founding? Was it more progressive or less? Were its ideas uniquely handed down via revelation or part of a shifting religious culture? Or both?
- [Poly-What?, or, a Contemporary View of LDS Plural Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/polly-who-or-a-contemporary-view-of-modern-lds-plural-marriage/) - Being from England, we do not really have a Polygamous Pioneer heritage like some from the US. However, we do have something a little more contemporary. I was speaking recently to a single woman who had a few children and had divorced been for some time and as we were speaking about the Church's history in this area she explained to me a few of her recent experiences with people who wanted to practice Polygamy.
- [Vote for #1 Funniest Reason to be Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/vote-for-1-funniest-reason-to-be-mormon/) - Here is the poll based based on last week's post. I'm picking the top 5 funny reasons to be Mormon. I picked 5 that I thought really expressed the humorous side of our religion. It was hard. There were many great responses. It's therapeutic to have a nice laugh at ourselves. So pick your favorite
- [Mormon Dating Sites - What the Heck?!?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-dating-sites-what-the-heck/) - In a church that requires chastity but a world in which random hookups are the norm, what about the plight of single adults who are well past the average Mormon dating age? Or even more difficult, what about those divorced members who are committed to the law of chastity, but also facing the dating scene again? Today's
- [mothers really are the primary nurturers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mothers-really-are-the-primary-nurturers/) - I have long been dismayed by the seemingly arbitrary idea that mothers should be first in charge of nurturing their children, with fathers there to step in and "help" as an equal partner. I have recently received some "further light and knowledge" on this topic. For the past three years or so I have become
- [What if Christ's Bones Were Found?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-if-christs-bones-were-found/) - I don't know why, but I love to learn about archaeology, especially religious archaeology. A few years ago, Simcha Jacobovici came out with a documentary and book called The Jesus Tomb. In it, he makes a claim that the bones of Jesus may have been located in a tomb unearthed in Jerusalem. Of course, the
- [I Have Seen the Axe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/i-have-seen-the-axe/) - Alice Walker, who wrote about the heartbreak of female genital mutilation quoted an African proverb in the beginning of her book Possessing the Secret of Joy: "I have seen the axe, and the handle is one of us." Are women our own worst enemy when it comes to reinforcing stereotypes and norms that limit women? There
- [The Word made Flesh: Poetry, Spirituality and Scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-word-made-flesh-poetry-spirituality-and-scripture/) - I find some poetry immensely moving and even spiritually satisfying. Even though I am not ‘well read’ I still sense that there is a vast reservoir of literature that could provide other channels of communication with God. For me poetry has been one of those channels, especially when it comes to considering my fear of death, I have found it helpful and liberating (check out ‘Aubade’ by Philip Larkin). In addition I have discovered a changing relationship with God through poetry.
- [Last Chance for Niblet Nominations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/last-chance-for-niblet-nominations/) - Niblet Nominations are now CLOSED. Enjoy perusing these links over the weekend, and the voting will commence on Monday! Best big blog: By Common Consent Feminist Mormon Housewives Millennial Star Mormon Matters Seriously So Blessed Times & Seasons Best group blog: The Exponent Faith Promoting Rumor Juvenile Instructor Mormon Mentality Mormon Metaphysics New Cool Thang
- [Five Funniest Reasons to be Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/five-funniest-reasons-to-be-mormon/) - Contest to find the top funniest reasons to be Mormon.
- [Who is a Cultural Mormon?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/who-is-a-cultural-mormon/) - First, Happy Independence Day (yay)! ...so I was digging through classic Mormon Matters and found Clay's discussion asking: how much does church activity has to do with being Mormon anyway? He opened with something interesting: Not so long ago, when I would hear about someone who didn’t go to church at all or have any
- [Joseph Smith is a Ute!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-smith-is-a-ute/) - I posted this on my blog, but wanted to share with more people. I always got a kick out of the signs in the student body section proclaiming, "The Prophet is a Ute!" After all, so many Mormons proclaim that BYU is the "Lord's University", that it was really nice to point out that President
- [Heroes Are Hard to Find](https://www.mormonmatters.org/heroes-are-hard-to-find/) - With the recent revelation of unfaithfulness of some of our politicians (not that this is all that surprising), it seems that the circle of people that we can look up to is getting smaller and smaller. I was wondering who your heroes are these days? We glorify celebrity and sports figures, who make millions of
- [Welcome to the Niblets Nominations!!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/welcome-to-the-niblets-nominations/) - Mormon Matters introduces the 2008 Niblets Awards! Comments are now closed. If you have further nominations, click HERE. The opportunity to honor the unique and talented Mormon bloggers was sorely missed this year. So we decided to give you a chance to look back on 2008 and remember the great things that happened in the
- [David Foster Wallace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/david-foster-wallace/) - Totally worth the read if you haven't read it before. http://www.moreintelligentlife.com/story/david-foster-wallace-in-his-own-words It's a commencement speech given a few years back by a famously gifted author (who has since taken his own life). His name is David Foster Walalce. My favorite part: "Not that that mystical stuff is necessarily true. The only thing that's capital-T True
- [No More Strangers ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/no-more-strangers/) - The church in California is initiating a Young Single Adult conference of unprecedented proportions. On August 7th and 8th, all of the YSA’s in the state will gather by temple district for 2 days of doctrinal workshops, sports activities, a humanitarian project, a variety show, dancing, and a special sacrament meeting . As part of
- [Groupthink](https://www.mormonmatters.org/groupthink/) - "Groupthink" is what naturally happens when a group becomes sedentary and sluggish. When change is introduced or new people are introduced, they challenge the "groupthink." I've never seen the word groupthink (when used correctly) as a positive. Does the church suffer from groupthink or just unity ("being one," and "if ye are not one, ye
- [Japanese: A Modern Case for Reformed Egyptian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/japanese-a-modern-case-for-reformed-egyptian/) - One of the common complaints about and arguments against the Book of Mormon is the claim that it was written in "Reformed Egyptian" - a unique and obsolete language that was peculiar to the Nephites and could not be read by anyone else. There have been many things written about this issue over the years, some
- [Hypocrisy, Thy Name Is Biblical Translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/hypocrisy-thy-name-is-biblical-translation/) - This probably will be the shortest post I ever write, but sometimes less is more. I hope that is the case here. I have to shake my head in amusement - and sometimes really laugh - when I hear those who complain about the wording of the Book of Mormon (that it's too much from the KJV of the Bible
- [Book of Abraham and Gospel of Judas](https://www.mormonmatters.org/book-of-abraham-and-gospel-of-judas/) - Ok, comparing these two books might seem a bit odd, but let me explain. First of all, I've already done a few posts on Abraham. In the first, I compared the Book of Abraham to the Koran, and wondered if Joseph might have translated an Islamic text, because the story found in the Book of
- [When the Spirit leaves......](https://www.mormonmatters.org/when-the-spirit-leaves/) - We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, repentance; third, baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Articles of Faith 1:4) Another of the unique doctrines of the Church of
- [Mormon Mythology: Sons of Perdition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-mythology-sons-of-perdition/) - From a mythological perspective, why does our religion have such a powerful and detailed "Sons of Perdition" element? I asked myself this recently after observing other members talk about this theme in length during separate conversations. They were so passionate about discussing this state of being, going on and on about it, even though it
- [The Disillusionment Phase](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-disillusionment-phase/) - Today's guest post is by Kate from Myriad Mormon Musings. Here is a brief introduction, in her own words, followed by her post: "My name is Kate. I was raised Catholic, but converted to the Mormon church in 1999 in a hippy branch at Cornell University. Since leaving that branch, I have struggled to find
- [Bloggernacle Rankings:  BCC is #1!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bloggernacle-rankings-bcc-is-1/) - According to alexa.com, By Common Consent is currently the top ranked site in the Bloggernacle. Congratulations to our esteemed colleagues; you have earned the distinction of "top blog"! Not to toot our own horn, but Mormon Matters is also on the rise in the Bloggernacle (at #3), coming in behind #2 bloggernacle perennial favorite Times
- [WHAT THE WORLD THINKS OF GOD](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-the-world-thinks-of-god/) - The ICM poll of 10,000 people in the USA, UK, Israel, India, South Korea, Indonesia, Nigeria, Russia, Mexico and Lebanon was carried out for the BBC It reveals that only 46% of respondents in the UK said they have always believed in God - 27% less than the average. Only Russia (42%) and South Korea
- [Mormon Matters Now on Facebook and Twitter!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-matters-now-on-facebook-and-twitter/) - We have sold our social networking souls! Please follow us! On Twitter! This link has been updated... On Facebook! If you join the facebook blog network, please give the blog a rating as well!
- [Bushman's Take on Polygamy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bushmans-take-on-polygamy/) - A few weeks ago, here at Mormon Matters, I posted on My Perspective on Polygamy (with a longer version found on my blog.) I hinted that I wanted to talk about it some more, and this time I thought I would try a more "faithful" perspective. A commenter on my blog took exception to some
- [My first time at Young Womens Camp](https://www.mormonmatters.org/my-first-time-at-young-womens-camp/) - This week I volunteered to help as the “priesthood” on staff for a couple days at Young Women Camp. Perhaps this is all old hat to a lot of you, but it was my first experience. I was very impressed. It was both fun and tiring. I never knew girls could be so crazy! The
- [Joshua's Unholy War](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joshuas-unholy-war/) - Admin Note: This is our first guest post from Mormon Heretic. When most of us hear the word "jihad" or "holy war", we immediately know that a jihad is not what God wants. Most of us feel the same when we hear the word "crusade." Really, does anyone think God wants people to fight in
- [The Power of Choice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-power-of-choice/) - One of the most important doctrinal points of the LDS Church is the power of choice, called agency or free agency in the Church. In many ways, the entire Plan of Salvation hinges on the power of choice. “That every man may act in doctrine and principle pertaining to futurity, according to the moral agency
- [Looking Forward to the Good Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/looking-forward-to-the-good-life/) - I've spent some time over the years thinking about questions that remain in regards to the logistics of the afterlife.As I was pondering upon this topic and watching, 'So You Think You Can Dance,' I realized that no matter what it's like in the celestial realm, there will most certainly be some positive changes: Home
- [Learning and Understanding Vs. Winning Arguments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/learning-and-understanding-vs-winning-arguments/) - Why do you read and comment on blogs? What is your goal? Do you want to make points and debate with others? Is it more important for you to reach mutual understanding and learn from each other? Can both happen at the same time? This is an adaptation of a post my good friend Ron
- [Academic Freedom in the Church-by Aaron Reeves](https://www.mormonmatters.org/academic-freedom-in-the-church/) - On the 2nd November 2007 a press release was issued from the Church, attributed to Pres. Hinckley, which said: ". . . the Church encourages a deeper and broader examination of its theology, history, and culture on an intellectual level . . . [and] open dialogue and conversation between the Latter-day Saints and various scholarly
- [John Hamer returns (sort of)!  A Look at the CoC](https://www.mormonmatters.org/john-hamer-returns-look-at-coc/) - Over the last year, I have come across a few bloggers who are members of the Community of Christ (formerly known as RLDS). I have always been curious about the Community of Christ, and have often wondered the differences in worship between their services, and LDS services. I wanted to share some of the stuff
- [Family First?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/family-first/) - In a pro-family church, why doesn't family always come first? We state that family comes before church, and yet there seem to be many in the church who don't live as if they believe it. What do we need to do to get people to believe that family (and marriage) comes first? There are numerous
- [What is Revelation?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-revelation/) - People have different opinions on what personal revelation is. Is it from God or from within us? Is it personal or universal in the scope of its truth? Does it only come in some ways or should we take inspiration however we can get it? Is it only available through the HG, or to all
- [Virtual RS/PH Lesson #27:  Beware the Bitter Fruits of Apostasy.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/virtual-rsph-lesson-27-beware-the-bitter-fruits-of-apostasy/) - Since Hawkgrrrl does not offer Virtual RS/PH lessons anymore, I thought I'd try my hand at it this one time. My wife was preparing Lesson 27: Beware the Bitter Fruits of Apostasy, and I couldn't help but think that this was a perfect bloggernacle discussion. From the Manual "In the weeks before and after the
- [Alma 32, A Thought Experiment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/alma-32-a-thought-experiment/) - Actually, we will begin with verse 28, but I don't want to copy and paste everything...so I assume you all have scriptures (or can follow along with the link I provided). But I want to directly quote a few scriptures. 32 Therefore, if a seed groweth it is good, but if it groweth not, behold
- [A South American Setting for Book of Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-south-american-setting-for-book-of-mormon/) - A few weeks ago, we had quite a discussion on the Malay Theory. While I heartily acknowledge that Mesoamerica is the most widely believed setting, there are many other theories out there. A little more than 10 years ago, I was vacationing in Hawaii with a few friends. While there, we attended a small branch
- [Time and Art, Part 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-and-art-part-2/) - Last Sunday, I mentioned a philosophical question I had in my mind and the comfort I received from the Lord after receiving an answer. In that post, I also mentioned that this question and answer led me to rethink the way I pray. Let me start with some information. In Logic, we learn that it
- [Missionary Lessons from the Land of Oz](https://www.mormonmatters.org/missionary-lessons-from-the-land-of-oz/) - This is a guest post from S Faux at Mormon Insights. Preface: Listed below are some secrets for "trunky" LDS missionaries (Elders and Sisters) with the help of a little Wizard of Oz imagery: Background: Dorothy of the “Wizard of Oz” obtained the ruby slippers because her house landed on the Wicked Witch of the
- [Trying to Understand My Friends Who <i>Didn't</i> Leave the Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/trying-to-understand-my-friends-who-didnt-leave-the-faith/) - Here is a modified excerpt from a 60-page writing that I made for close friends and family members when I decided to leave the church a few months ago. It was my attempt at helping them understand my view. I think most of them didn't bother reading it. I wasn't looking forward to the conversations
- ["Don't Ask, Don't Tell" Supreme Court Decision Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dont-ask-dont-tell-supreme-court-decision-poll/) - The US Supreme Court just announced it will not hear arguments regarding the US military's "Don't ask, don't tell" policy. [poll id="10"]
- [Why I am a Tory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-i-am-a-tory/) - Perhaps it is the heretical imp in me, but I have often shifted in my seat uncomfortably as I sit in classes at BYU and in the church house while folks accept as axiomatic all the talk about the American revolution as merely the harbinger of the Restoration. The argument goes like this: the gospel
- [Time and Art, Part 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/time-and-art-part-1/) - The way we experience time has never been too fascinating to me until the last week or so. I can't pinpoint exactly when it hit me, but all of a sudden I found myself attacking the very fundamental nature of time itself. This has led me to look at prayer in a completely different way.
- [The Facade of Activity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-facade-of-activity/) - You see them every week at Church, attending their meetings, performing their callings, shuttling their children to this or that activity. They are active in the Church by every definition. But are they really ACTIVE in the Church? Are they ACTIVE in the gospel? Activity in the Church is loosely defined as attending Sacrament meeting
- [Even Kung Fu Masters Eventually Leave Us ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/even-kung-fu-masters-eventually-leave-us/) - David Carradine died today in a hotel in Thailand. Go with God, Grasshopper. [poll id="9"] If your favorite actor is not listed here, who would you choose and why? What was your favorite martial arts movie? Individual character role?
- [What Bothers Me, and Why I Still Believe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-bothers-me-and-why-i-still-believe/) - I am an active member of the church, and a believer. I am well aware of most of the controversial issues (Book of Abraham, DNA, Book of Mormon historicity, polyandry, etc.). Some of them occasionally bother me. Others do not. Although according to statistics I am very educated, I probably could not win an argument
- [Hedging Your Bets: Refusing to Leave the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/hedging-your-bets-refusing-to-leave-the-church/) - Two men pull up to a house they've never been to before. It's dark, but a few lights appear on. They slowly get out, not saying much and walk up the walk to the door. One reaches out and rings the doorbell. Soon, a woman appears and opens the door. One says: "Are you Sister
- [The Irony of Proposition 8](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-irony-of-proposition-8/) - I hope you can stand at least one more post on Proposition 8 and its aftermath. I decided to bag the post I had planned because this issue or at least the reaction to the passing of Proposition 8 in California seems to have some longer range consequences. As a California native who lived the
- [Worship of the Unborn](https://www.mormonmatters.org/worship-of-the-unborn/) - It seems that only the most controversial gets much attention here on Mormon Matters, so I thought I would weigh on the subject of the abortion and the unborn. Let me start by saying that I am unabashedly pro-choice. I am pro-choice for a number of reasons. First and foremost, I don't like making personal
- [Modern Medical Miracles: Could it be Satan?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/modern-medical-miracles-could-it-be-satan/) - Just about every day in the news, we hear of an advance in modern medicine that can prolong life that might otherwise be lost if the person is left without this medical treatment. Whether it is a new treatment for an otherwise terminal illness or the ability to save an infant that might not survive
- [Stop Baptizing Our Dead!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/stop-baptizing-our-dead/) - The LDS doctrine of Baptism for the Dead is unique within Christianity. The explanation for the doctrine and additional references on the LDS Church website can be found here. There is also a fairly lengthy explanation on Wikipedia here. It is a controversial doctrine and many groups have protested this vicarious work for the dead,
- [There Are Too Many Books about the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/there-are-too-many-books-about-the-church/) - As I sit at the computer in my office, my back is to the 400 or so books I have about the Church in my library. I have books written by and about the Prophets and General Authorities, Histories of the Church, Church Units and the building of the Kingdom in various geographies. Books about
- [President Thomas S. Monson: First Year in Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/president-thomas-s-monson-first-year-in-review/) - Today, February 3, 2009 is the 1-year anniversary of the calling of President Thomas S. Monson as the 16th President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. What has happened in the Church during that period? Has there been any major changes, events, revelations? LDS Church News has a specific page devoted
- [The Bloggernacle: The Church's Unofficial Complaint Department](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-bloggernacle-the-churchs-unofficial-complaint-department/) - Since I began using the Internet, I discovered both the positive and negative aspects of it. One can find a wealth of information heretofore unattainable for most people to the vilest, debase and disgusting things imaginable. The Internet can be used for both good and evil. One of the great things is the ability to
- [Symbolism Of the Passover Points to Jesus Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/symbolism-of-the-passover-points-to-jesus-christ/) - The traditional Jewish celebration of the Passover, which started Thursday night, can illustrate the rich symbolism found in the Old Testament and show how the symbolism of the Passover points directly to Jesus Christ. Please note that the original Passover observance is described in Exodus, chapters twelve and thirteen. The modern Seder evolved from this
- [Nepotism in the Church: 2009 Update](https://www.mormonmatters.org/nepotism-in-the-church-2009-update/) - Last time, I did a lengthy post on Nepotism in the Church, which you can find here. This is an update for this year so far. As you can see, the list is pretty short. I haven't had a chance to go back and do more research on the appointments other than General Authorities, Temple
- [Temples Unbuilt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/temples-unbuilt/) - I happen to be cruising around the LDS Temple website the other day and I was looking at the Temples under construction. I was wondering whether we the Church had announced a Temple and not built it. I knew that this happened, so I thought it might make an interesting post. Most of my information
- [When the Ward Splits](https://www.mormonmatters.org/when-the-ward-splits/) - Since I have lived in Colorado Springs (almost 6 years), I have witnessed a phenomena at Church I hadn't experienced before while living in San Jose. Ward Splits and Stake realignments. I lived in San Jose as member of the Church for 21 years. In that time, we did not experience a Ward split. Quite
- [Worship or Whine?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/worship-or-whine/) - This post was inspired by David Stout's series of posts on LDS Worship, Part II and Part III as well as HawkGrrrl's post entitled "More Christ at Church." I'd like all the whining about the LDS Sacrament Meeting to stop. I'd like to focus on how to make it a better and more meaningful weekly
- [Taking the Fun Out of Funerals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/taking-the-fun-out-of-funerals/) - What do you want your funeral to be like? Do you care or do you figure you'll be dead anyway? How do you feel about burial vs. cremation? Are you an organ donor? This is a topic that always excites some feeling, whether you are Mormon or not. We all wonder about the legacy we
- [If someone should get only one thing out of the church, what should it be?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/if-someone-should-get-only-one-thing-out-of-the-church-what-should-it-be/) - In an ideal world, we would like everyone to be members of the church (actually, this is just a generalization that I'm going to write just so I can have an introduction to this article). Ideally, we'd like them to be faithful members of the church who sustain the prophet, live great lives, enjoy their
- [The consumer model of religion -- A look at a BCC post](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-consumer-model-of-religion-a-look-at-a-bcc-post/) - I was reading BCC the other day, and I came across this post that just seemed like this tremendous threat to me. I know John C had nothing in mind and really, I'm just writing this for the melodrama, but as an ex-mormon atheist, it seemed to hit close to home. John just had it
- [Is Mormon Matters Balanced?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-mormon-matters-balanced/) - Over the last week, we've received quite a few critical comments, ranging from a pro-mormon commenter about "another blog better left unwritten" to an anti-mormon's attack on LDS church as "the Devil’s brother of Mormonism". When I was invited to be a blogger here at MM, the invitation included the idea that I was invited
- [CA Supreme Court Upholds Prop 8; Gay Couples Remain Married](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ca-supreme-court-upholds-prop-8-gay-couples-remain-married/) - The link to the article summarizing the CA Supreme Court decision is in the sidebar to the left. In summary, the court allowed Prop 8 to stand (keeping marriage in CA defined as being between a woman and a man) but also allowed all homosexual couples married prior to its passage to retain their married
- [Women are from Venus, Men are from Kolob](https://www.mormonmatters.org/women-are-from-venus-men-are-from-kolob/) - Based on my experience, I would guess that the majority of LDS women under age 65 would say that polygamy is NOT an eternal principle and that it doesn't require any earthly worrying as a result. While the men are probably not worrying about it (although any of them who are married to me should think
- [Please Respect the Rules of Common Decency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/please-respect-the-rules-of-common-decency/) - This is an administrative post that is irrelevant to most of you. For that, I apologize. However, we have had a surge recently in comments left by dedicated anti-Mormon activists - comments that have NOTHING to do with the posts on which they appear and that contain NOTHING constructive or enlightening. We also have had
- [A Memorial Day Jack Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-memorial-day-jack-mormon/) - With Memorial Day upon us, I wanted to highlight a person that people know a little about, Alexander Doniphan, who was known as one of the first "Jack Mormons." Michael Quinn's book The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power talks about many incidents which led to the "extermination order" by Missouri Governor Boggs. Doniphan served in
- [Adversity as a form of the love of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/adversity-as-a-form-of-the-love-of-god/) - "For whom the Lord loveth, he chaseneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth." (Hebrews 12:6; 6-8, 11)" Many times we need the experience of making the right choices when it is not easy in order in order to transform what we are.While adversity can just grind us down, everyone is aware that adversity need
- [What Makes People Good?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-makes-people-good/) - An article in Newsweek "Adventures in Good and Evil" made a few interesting points about why some people are good and some are evil. The article pointed out a few generalizations: In general, most people's moral sense capitulates in the face of authority. The roots of our moral sense—of honesty, altruism, compassion, generosity and sense
- [The Genius of Mormonism:  Missions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-genius-of-mormonism-missions/) - I wanted to do a series of posts on aspects of the LDS church that I consider to be sheer religious genius. These are religous practices or concepts that have given Mormonism its staying power, and when compared to other religions are "best-in-class" (to borrow a term from business). The first practice I will address
- [Bloggernacle Personality Survey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bloggernacle-personality-survey/) - The bloggernacle seems to attract a specific subset of Mormon culture, and as a result, opinions and comments are often different from those we hear expressed at church. One reason for this could be that some personality types thrive in organizations while others are prone to be disenfranchised. A popular metric to determine personality type
- [Dancing through the Sidebar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dancing-through-the-sidebar-4/) - Comment on any of the following articles - or anything else from the sidebar - or any other article of interest to this forum that we missed. ... Demolition ... Obedience Happiness is Being Old, Male and Republican The WRONG Way to Die!! Did We Mormons Baptize Your Deceased Loved One? I Can Help. Do
- [Our Soldiers Need FAR MORE Than Tribute](https://www.mormonmatters.org/our-soldiers-need-far-more-than-tribute/) - This post is from S.Faux: On this upcoming Memorial Day it will be easy to post flags outside our homes and then just enjoy the BBQ. But there are very helpful things we can do, ranging from just a little effort to a lot. The web page on "Citizen Support" by the Community Relations section
- [Can Love Be A Bad Thing?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/can-love-be-a-bad-thing/) - The following must not be interpreted as petition to the Church. It's simply a summary of some thoughts I have had that I would like to hear other perspectives on. Criticisms are welcome, but let's keep it respectful, compassionate, and understanding. This post isn't about marriage. It isn't about sex. It's about love: something
- [Best and Worst of Mormonism: Quotes!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/best-and-worst-mormon-quotes/) - A Zen Buddhist/Freemason friend of mine has put together some great posts of "Best and Worst Bible Verses." I have been trying to convince him to make the series into one of those daily calendars. Would it not be great to wake up in the morning and read: "Happy shall they be who seize your
- [Good Man Gone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/good-man-gone/) - A week ago, I attended the viewing and funeral of a man in our stake who died of an unexpected heart attack. He was in his 50's, had just been to the doctor and been pronounced fit as a fiddle, was losing weight and feeling great. He was the Bishop of his ward, and his
- ["What Children Know": A Children's Rebuttal to Elder Ballard's Conference Talk](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-children-know-a-childrens-rebuttal-to-elder-ballards-conference-talk/) - Late last night as I was putting the finishing touches on my Monday morning blog post, I heard a faint knocking on the front door of my home. When I opened the door I saw no one there, but heard the pitter-patter of little feet fading off in the distance. Something caught my eye on
- [What's My Age Again?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/whats-my-age-again/) - Today's guest post is from Bishop Mike Young of the Spanish Ford 401st Ward. He writes: I was reading Mark Twain's, "Captain Stormfield's Visit to Heaven," the other day, and it brought up some questions about the afterlife that were thought-provoking. You can read this short story online here. One of the questions covered in
- [Freedom of Religion vs. Death](https://www.mormonmatters.org/freedom-of-religion-vs-death/) - Some of you may be following the story of Colleen Hauser and her 13 year-old son, Daniel, who has Hodgkin's lymphoma, and needs chemotherapy in order to survive. The family belongs to a religious group that believes in "natural" healing methods and Daniel himself has stated that he believes chemotherapy will kill him (as if the cancer won't).
- [MM Poll:  Your Favorite Scriptures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mm-poll-your-favorite-scriptures/) - Mormon Matters has installed a new polling feature, so thought I'd get the ball rolling with a fairly simple one, so here goes. [poll id="3"]
- [The Problem with Tolerance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-problem-with-tolerance/) - The church has a history of high level leaders making sweeping pronouncements that are later deemed incorrect, speculative, or unauthorized, yet in each case, church leaders are reluctant to make public correction of those presumptions. This tolerance sometimes results in dogmatic voices flourishing, drowning out those same tolerant voices that have graciously granted them access
- [My Perspective on Polygamy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/my-perspective-on-polygamy/) - I have long avoided talking about polygamy on my blog. It is a source of tremendous discomfort for me, but it keeps coming up, so I want to give my impressions about this early practice in Mormonism, as well as my beliefs and reconciliations. While all Mormons are well-aware of polygamy, my first real encounter
- [Who's #2?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/whos-2/) - I've been listening to some podcasts (here is the iTunes link) from the Covenant Theological Seminary on Ancient and Medieval Church History. Apparently they offer a Master of Theology Degree, and most of the classwork can be done online. Of course, if you want a degree you have to pay tuition, which I'm not doing,
- [Interfaith International British DJ ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/interfaith-international-british-dj-paul-brooks-proverbs-98-phoenix-fm/) - OK Paul technically isn't exactly an international DJ, not unless you consider that you can listen to his interviews on line. He's a returned missionary and member of the Grays Ward in the Romford Stake Essex England. Paul got the show after being a presenter at Hospital Radio Chelmsford for a year and chased a
- [An Explanation of My Reduction in Participation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/an-explanation-of-my-reduction-in-participation/) - [Please pardon the personal nature of this post, but I want to take the opportunity to write this personally.] For the past two years (almost), I have been an active blogger - to say the least. (*grin*) Actually, to be more precise, I have been a VERY active blogger. OK, that is an understatement. That
- [Mother's Day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mothers-day/) - As you know by know, I often like to talk about history. So, I thought I would try to learn a little about Mother's Day. While there have been various movements over the centuries, in the United States, it seems the first Mother's Day movement began just after the Civil War with Julia Ward Howe's
- [Barack Obama's Mother Has Been Baptized into the LDS Church! No joke!!!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/barack-obamas-mothers-has-been-baptized-into-the-lds-church/) - I'm not kidding. Here's the link to FamilySearch.org (Update: It appears as though the church has taken the record down...but you can find a screenshot here). It was, of course, in the temple (posthumously...via baptism for the dead)...but still! Details below. Do you think President Obama minds? Also, will this be a black eye for
- [That We Could All Be Like - Satan?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/that-we-could-all-be-like-satan/) - Today we have a guest post from Bishop Mike T. Young of the Spanish Fork 401st Ward. During the Sunday School discussion this week, as it frequently does, the topic turned to Satan and how he's everywhere and into all our business, trying desperately to lead us astray with the help of The Liberal Media.
- [Are we going to be Eunuchs after this life?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-we-going-to-be-eunuchs-after-this-life/) - My home teacher (who is very cool) came by yesterday to drop off some starter cables for my car and as one does in that short interlude we discussed the celestial kingdom and being Gods after this life. He believed that those who don't make it to the highest kingdom in the Celestial Kingdom won't
- [Why do we act?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-do-we-act/) - So, the church has a lot of commandments, pieces of advice, laws, words of wisdom (both the specific one and ones more generic). You might say that the church is...I dunno...demanding? So why do we keep up with it? Why do we persist? For the past few weeks, I have been doing a lot of
- [Debunking the Spaulding Theory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/debunking-the-spaulding-theory/) - In my previous post about Unconventional Book of Mormon Geography Theories, Doug G made a comment claiming that the Book of Mormon is related to the Solomon Spaulding Manuscript, so I want to address this theory. Andrew Ainsworth did a post in February on the Curious Case of Solomon Spaulding, which talks more about the
- [Marie Osmond Supports Gay Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/marie-osmond-supports-gay-marriage/) - Wow. Marie Osmond openly supports gay marriage. First Steve Young's wife. Now this. Will announcements like this eventually impact broader LDS opinion going forward (at least in the U.S.)? Will it make some LDS members think twice, or feel emboldened to disagree w/ the mainstream church on this one issue? Should be interesting if this
- [Botched Hymns](https://www.mormonmatters.org/botched-hymns/) - We are all familiar with this phenomenon. You're listening to a song you've heard many times, and you think you know the lyrics, but you don't really. And often our mistaken lyrics radically change the meaning of the song. For example, I remember hearing the song Blinded by the Light when I was growing up.
- [Resentment and Gratitude](https://www.mormonmatters.org/resentment-and-gratitude/) - Resentment and gratitude both have a role in our faith in Christ. Together they teach us a great deal. Not only is "resentment like taking poison and expecting the other person to die" Christ warned us that if we are wronged and hold on to our resentment instead of giving forgiveness, we would have the
- [Defining Lust and Chastity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/defining-lust-and-chastity/) - Matthew 5:27-28 includes the statement: "Whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart." Rather than debate that statement, although I am open to discussing it here, I want to focus on an underlying issue within something to which we refer frequently as the "Law of
- [Dancing Through the Sidebar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dancing-through-the-sidebar-3/) - Comment on any of the following articles - or anything else from the sidebar - or any other article of interest to this forum that we missed. LOLcats, Naked and Not Ashamed The LDS Church is Committed to Building Green The Force is Strong with This One Mormons Really Are Devil Spawn How to Make
- [April 2009 General Conference - Word Stats](https://www.mormonmatters.org/april-2009-general-conference-word-stats/) - Based on word count, what was the focus of April 2009 General Conference? Before you scroll down, see if you can guess the top 3 words that were used. OK, here goes. This list is not comprehensive, but it's a great start. If you want more stats, do your own research! Did you guess right?
- [Why are the 12 tribes of Israel important?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-are-the-12-tribes-if-israel-important/) - The LDS Church has a list of 13 general beliefs, which was composed by Joseph Smith in the 1830’s. It does not cover everything the church believes, but is a good guide. In the 10th article of faith, it states, “We believe in the literal gathering of Israel and in the restoration of the Ten
- [Who Should Go to Church, Anyway?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/who-should-go-to-church-anyway/) - So over at T&S they've been having this discussion about the recent media report about the majority of America's drifiting faith issues. And I know, you're about to say, "Dude, this isn't T&S. We do things differently at Mormon Matters," and I understand. And while I discussed this a bit at my blog, I most
- [Is Accountability a Good or Bad Thing?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-accountability-a-good-or-bad-thing/) - I am struck regularly by how many members fail to focus on the life of Jesus and, thus, fail to realize that there are incredible lessons (particularly in the Gospels) about specific things we can do to become more like Him - things that can lessen the effects of our sins and actually help decrease
- [More Christ At Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/more-christ-at-church/) - The mission of the church is to bring people to Christ (it is not the tri-fold mission of proclaim the gospel, perfect the saints and redeem the dead). Yet many members feel that the focus on Christ is missing in our weekly worship. So, what's the best way to bring Christ back to the center
- [Mormon Masks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-masks/) - Often people have a hard time with intimacy (intimacy = "into me see") because they feel vulnerable. They would rather deal with ideas than people, and they don't want others to see who they are. They might feel insecure or care what others think of them. People who feel this way wear what we call
- [Unconventional Book of Mormon Geography Theories](https://www.mormonmatters.org/unconventional-book-of-mormon-geography-theories/) - It's been over a year since someone posted something on Book of Mormon geography, so I think it's about time. Most of you believe that the Book of Mormon occurred in Central America, right? Well it turns out there are over 100 theories. Check out this big list, which is incomplete. In 1991, John Sorenson
- [Reflections on a Thought Experiment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/reflections-on-a-thought-experiment/) - I saw a recent thought experiment. The author asked: what if you had to chose between a doctrine you disliked and results you liked (lets call them doctrine A and result B) or doctrine you liked and results you disliked (doctrine B and result A). Which would you chose? Some said that result B obviously
- [Deconstructing Christian chain mails](https://www.mormonmatters.org/deconstructing-christian-chain-mails/) - I know my mother has better things to do at work than to forward generic Christian chain mails to everyone in her address book...my problem is I can't convince her of that. And so, every day, I receive a treasure trove of faith-promoting Christian stories that make me -- a nonbeliever -- cringe. And while
- [History of Baptism/Mikvah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/history-of-baptismmikvah/) - Since my last post was quite speculative and controversial, I thought I'd go for a change of pace and talk about something we're all familiar with, or so we thought. The history of baptism is quite interesting, and much more complex than most people know. Some have questioned the Book of Mormon's account of baptism
- [Does the LDS Church claim to be "an exclusive conduit to God"?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/does-the-lds-church-claim-to-be-an-exclusive-conduit-to-god/) - Recently, a veritable Icon of the Bloggernacle, who for purposes of anonymity we shall call "Aloysius Miller", published a post stating: "I don't see the church as an exclusive conduit to God," and "I reject the claims that the church is a sole avenue to God." Aloysius further stated: "I realize that those claims are
- [Surprising Speculations -- where can practice and theology take us?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/surprising-speculations-where-can-practice-and-theology-take-us/) - There are some speculations I learned about by all the sermons to the contrary. When I was much, much younger, I read a lot of sermons and essays and excerpts. One thing that struck me was the number of talks by Prophets and Apostles who spent a lot of time lecturing that speculation born of
- [Dancing Through the Sidebar ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dancing-through-the-sidebar-2/) - Comment on any of the following articles - or anything else from the sidebar - or any other article of interest to this forum that we missed. Some Q12 Subscribe to Sunstone A Wave of De-Baptisms Mormon Stories Archive Back on Line African Mission Churches Are Reaching Into America These Researchers Have a Good Grasp
- [What If You Weren't A Mormon?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-if-you-werent-a-mormon/) - "What if you weren't a Mormon?" For some reason, this is something that I often wonder to myself. And this post is about how I would answer that question. I suppose that we've all thought about what our lives would have been like if we weren't LDS. Actually, whether you're LDS or of another faith,
- [LDS Worship - Part III](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lds-worship-part-iii/) - David Stout is a Disciples of Christ minister. This is the third and final installment of his insightful commentary on LDS Sacrament Meeting Worship. To provide proper context for this final installment, we are including a couple of paragraphs from the end of the last installment. We want to thank David for his contributions here
- [Joseph Smith and Wealth Redistribution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-smith-and-wealth-redistribution/) - This article by a guest blogger originally appeared at Gospel Doctrine Underground. We want to thank the author for allowing us to re-post it here. The Law of Consecration offers a lot of interesting discussion topics and ideas. To me, a political junkie, one of the most interesting concepts tied up in consecration is the
- [What Else Did God Say To Joseph?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-else-did-god-say-to-joseph/) - Not too long ago, I sat through an Elders Quorum lesson about the First Vision. The teacher, who I like and who generally does a good job, was leading a paint-by-numbers sort of discussion (Q: "What do we learn from The First Vision"; A: "God has a body"). As usual for this topic, the lesson
- ["Out-of-Wedlock" Is No Longer "Illegitimate" ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/out-of-wedlock-is-no-longer-illegitimate/) - In a recent CNN.com/living article ("Out-of-wedlock births hit record high"), the discussion centered on the fact that the birth rate outside of marriage in the United States has risen nearly 25% in the past five years. You read that correctly - 25% in 5 years. The following are some representative quotes from that article: 1)
- [Mainstream acceptance of the Mormons' Easter Story?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mainstream-acceptance-of-the-mormons-easter-story/) - Around Easter 2004, National Geographic produced a documentary titled In Search of Easter. The producers interviewed a wide range of scholars about the Resurrection story of the Easter celebration. It is an interesting insight into various Resurrection stories found in the Bible. I am always interested in scholarly opinions on religious topics, and nearly fell
- [Interesting Observation:  Nephi the Socialist](https://www.mormonmatters.org/interesting-observation-nephi-the-socialist/) - Ever since reading Believing History, I've been looking at the Book of Mormon and relating what it says to what it is closest to. Which is why it becomes pretty obvious that Nephi is closest to the socialists. You can imagine what a shock that was to me when I was a libertarian marxist, it
- [Is the Gospel really good news?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-the-gospel-really-good-news/) - I receive a daily mailing from a fundie Protestant pastor that details every story that day that he feels is important for Christians to know about. Today's mailing included such items as: Earthquake Shakes Chile's Capital, Dengue outbreak in Argentina now ‘epidemic’, Mother kills son with a bullet to back of head at Florida shooting
- [Faith vs. Doubt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/faith-vs-doubt/) - "Faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one will dispel the other." Here are a few responses from various different individuals to this quote from this weekend's General Conference: "It's not as if you're going to hear that and say "Right. I guess I don't have doubts." It seems
- [Families Forver Naked and Not Ashamed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/families-forver-naked-and-not-ashamed/) - Mormon Matters Motto is Exploring Mormon culture in a balanced way- so bare with me on this one (excuse the pun). Recently we have read that Utah has the highest rate of pornography per capita compared to all other states here There has been a great deal of speculation about this on the bloggernacle. Could
- [LDS Worship - Part II](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lds-worship-part-ii/) - The following is the second part of the series written for us by David Stout, Disciples of Christ minister, about his perception of LDS worship. The first post can be read here. Again, thank you, David. The second reason (I am interested in the possibility of returning a bit of the former fire of earlier
- [Scripture Study:  The Joy of My Countenance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/scripture-study-the-joy-of-my-countenance/) - There is a strange parable in D&C 88 about workers digging in a field and their boss giving them the joy of his countenance for an hour during their shift. Read on to weigh in what you think this means. Here's the parable: 51 Behold, I will liken these kingdoms unto a man having a
- [Scripture Study:  What's Expedient?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/scripture-study-whats-expedient/) - I'd like to start a new feature showcasing stuff I read in the scriptures and getting your opinions on what the heck you think it means. Hope you like it. I just read D&C 88 and ran across an interesting passage we've all heard/read before in vv. 64 and 65 that begs the question: What's expedient? First
- [LDS Worship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/lds-worship/) - David Stout, Disciples of Christ minister who wrote a very thought-provoking post for us a few weeks ago, has agreed to write a short series of posts on LDS worship as seen from the outside looking in. This is the first of that series. Thank you, David. Last summer I had the opportunity to attend
- [Could Life be Inherently Just? The Significance of the Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man](https://www.mormonmatters.org/could-life-be-inherently-just-the-significance-of-the-parable-of-lazarus/) - It seems like a silly question. We all know life isn't fair. Its cliché, isn't it? There is a long time "proof" that God does not exist that goes like this: "If there is a God, how could there be such injustice and evil in the world?" What they really mean is that they can't
- [General Conference Open Thread](https://www.mormonmatters.org/open-general-conference-thread/) - Impressions and reactions welcome. Just keep it civil.
- [Memo To YW Leaders:  Thanks, But No Thanks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/memo-to-yw-leaders-thanks-but-no-thanks/) - In our current callings, my wife and I spend a lot of time digging through Church instruction manuals. I teach both the 12/13 year old Sunday School class (weekly) as well as Elders' Quorum (once a month). My wife serves as the Laurels adviser, and is responsible for teaching at least a couple of lessons
- [The Delbert Stapley / George Romney / Negro Letter, and Modern Applications](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-delbert-stapley-george-romney-negro-letter-and-modern-applications/) - A friend just forwarded to me this letter written by LDS Apostle Delbert Stapley to then Michigan Governor George Romney dealing with Negroes, race, the LDS Church, Joseph Smith, civil rights, etc. I know that Delbert Stapley was a very good man -- so I'm not interested in piling on (now that we all have
- [Krista Tippett Interviews Robert Millett on Mormonism for "Speaking of Faith"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/krista-tippett-interview-robert-millett-on-mormonism-for-speaking-of-faith/) - I love Krista Tippett's "Speaking of Faith", and I love Mormonism -- which makes this a must-listen. I hope it's good. What did you think? SOF OnDemand: » Listen Now (RA) » Download (mp3) » PodcastThis week on public radio's conversation about religion, meaning, ethics, and ideas: Inside Mormon Faith Americans have been hearing about
- [Robert Millet & Krista Tippet Pt. 1: "God as Man" Doctrine "Theologically Tangential"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/robert-millet-krista-tippet-pt-1-god-as-man-doctrine-theologically-tangential/) - I really, really enjoyed Krista Tippett's latest interview with (perhaps) the LDS Church's arch-theologian: Dr. Robert Millet. I have about 4 or 5 posts in me (at least) about this interview -- and here is the first. Towards the beginning of the interview, the following conversation ensues about the nature of God: Krista: And Elhohim
- [Robert Millet & Krista Tippet Pt. 2: Mormon Missionary Work Targeted at "Helping People Accept Jesus as Their Savior"?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/robert-millet-krista-tippet-pt-2-mormon-missionary-work-targeted-at-helping-people-accept-jesus-as-their-savior/) - The more I listen to this interview -- the more I enjoy and respect Dr. Millet. I have even listened to the extended interview now, which I definitely recommend. And while I have at least a few posts planned where I hope to express what I loved about this interview, as part 2 of this
- [Help Wanted: Predicting the Next Apostle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/predicting-the-next-apostle/) - This Thursday or Friday, someone at the Church Office building will get a phone call and make the long walk to President Monson's office. By the time he leaves, he will have traded in his current position for a lifetime calling as an apostle. We'll find out Saturday who he is, but why "stand idly,
- [What's your position on Euthanasia?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/whats-your-position-on-euthanasia/) - First, we need to go over some definitions, because different organizations have different definitions. The 2 most interesting definitions for me are the LDS church's definition, and Stanford University's definition. Let's look at them. LDS church's definition Euthanasia is defined as deliberately putting to death a person who is suffering from an incurable condition or
- [Speculation and Testimonies:  The good, the bad, the unique ...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/speculation-and-testimonies-the-good-the-bad-the-unique/) - Recently heard, and not necessarily in order: Logic tells us that Jesus Christ really lived. Think about it. The calendar. B.C. Before Christ. How could people have missed that? Kathy Rowley is the only true Relief Society President. I'm certain I will go on a mission to the ten tribes in the center of the
- [Why B,B-S-W A-As Who Support Extension of the Priesthood to W-w-l-P are Depressed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-bb-s-w-a-as-who-support-extension-of-the-priesthood-to-w-w-l-p-are-depressed/) - I decided to spare everyone the full title of this article: Why Bearded, Blue-Shirt-Wearing African-Americans Who Support Extension of the Priesthood to Women who love Pr0n are Depressed. (And that title, if you can believe it, is actually culled from what the internal memos discussed). I'm sure there are several writers on site who are
- [The Gospel and Gasoline](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-gospel-and-gasoline/) - So in case you haven't heard, we are at the tail end of a gasoline shortage in Atlanta. Stations were empty for days at a time. The few that received a shipment would be out within an hour or two. People were watching traffic cameras on the internet to spot tanker trucks. I personally spent
- [Everything you can do, I can do better!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/everything-you-can-do-i-can-do-better/) - I've had this song stuck in my mind for a week or so now. Don't you hate that? To make matters worse, I keep picturing a 19th century cast of early Church leaders singing this song on a vaudeville stage. You know, the kind with oil lantern stage lights on the floor shaped like clam shells.
- [What do you think about Evolution?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-do-you-think-about-evolution/) - I know the LDS church has no official views on evolution. I had someone ask me what I thought about it, and frankly, I haven’t given much thought about it. As I understand, there are people at BYU who believe in evolution, but I think they believe that evolution has limits, and don’t rule out
- [What Advice Would You Give Our Bishops? ("Missionary Work")](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-advice-would-you-give-our-bishops-missionary-work/) - I am on the Stake Missionary Committee, and Wednesday night we had a fascinating set of meetings. I couldn't help but think as the meetings unfolded that everyone here would have been shocked at the conversation flow and the end result of our final committee meeting. I don't want to go into lots of detail,
- [When Moral Issues Become Political Issues](https://www.mormonmatters.org/when-moral-issues-become-political-issues/) - Should our political views always align with our moral views? When and if they don't align, why not? Guest blogger Ray explores this idea in today's Guest Post: The proliferation of posts in the Bloggernacle dealing with same-sex marriage after the CA Supreme Court decision prompted me to make the following comment here on Mormon Matters:
- [Murder: As Bad As We Think?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/murder-as-bad-as-we-think/) - I've always been under the impression that premeditated murder is an unforgivable sin. Is it? The Bible is full of great examples of people who did really bad things -- the type of things that we shouldn't even think of doing, with the biggest no-no being murder. So that's why I have problems with a
- [Peace and Depression: Lessons on Accountability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/peace-and-depression-lessons-on-accountability/) - I am struck regularly by how many members fail to focus on Jesus' life and realize that there are incredible lessons (particularly in the Gospels) about specific things we can do to become more like Him - things that can lessen the effects of our sins and actually help decrease the frequency of those sins
- [How do you interpret another's faith?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-do-you-interpret-anothers-faith/) - The following are four approaches one can take when addressing another’s faith.* Exclusivist – Believe in “the only true church.” Exclusivists may see the church or the restored gospel as the only means of salvation. They may not openly try to share the gospel with everyone, everywhere, but that is their goal. The most obvious
- [The Problem with Whistleblowers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-problem-with-whistleblowers/) - A whistleblower is someone internal to an organization who alleges misconduct. So, what if the organization is the church? Does the church handle whistleblowers effectively or not? If so, how? If not, why not? In corporate America, misconduct is often characterized as a violation of a law, rule, regulation and/or a direct threat to public
- [Battlestar Galactica Series Finale Review:  SPOILER ALERT](https://www.mormonmatters.org/battlestar-galactica-series-finale-critique-spoiler-alert/) - OK, I realize that the majority of our regular readership are probably not BSG watchers; however, since the reimagined series is based on the original late-1970s series created by Glen Larson, who used it as a vehicle for Mormon themes and theological musings, it's likely that there are Mormons (beside me) who followed this much
- [My Son's Mission Details](https://www.mormonmatters.org/my-sons-mission-details/) - My son received a large white envelope from SLC yesterday, and he had to wait four hours to open it, so that his mother and siblings could get home. We then rushed to a ward party, where, obviously, his call was the main topic of conversation - since his brother and sisters had immediately published
- [The Difference Between Persians and Arabs](https://www.mormonmatters.org/persians-and-arabs/) - This is a post from my blog I did previously, with some updates. I will confess that I love learning about the Middle East. I love learning more about Jews, Muslims, Arabs, etc. I have so much to learn. I’m a grad student working on some genetic studies (one of my many jobs). As
- [Coming out of the closet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/coming-out-of-the-closet/) - A while back I was reading an article by Seth Payne (and I blogged about it on my personal blog from a slightly different perspective)...and I guess I was most impressed/shocked by something that Seth had done. See, while I was already interested in the paper because he tried to analyze the Ex-Mormon exit narrative
- [Strange Bedfellows](https://www.mormonmatters.org/strange-bedfellows/) - One aspect of the church that makes me nervous at times is the alliances we form when our interests coincide with other groups, whether this is in the political realm (as is often the case), or even at times in interfaith work we undertake. I suppose alliances are a necessary evil if you want to get anything
- [In Praise Of Good Bishops](https://www.mormonmatters.org/in-praise-of-good-bishops/) - Here's the one lesson I learned from my 3.5 year stint as an Elders Quorum President: never, ever aspire to be a Bishop. Seriously, it is a thankless job. To put a finer point on it, being a Bishop is an honest-to-goodness, up-to-40-hours-per-week, full-time thankless job. Not to mention the fact that the pay (-10%)
- [Consecrating our Illness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/consecrating-our-illness/) - I was sick over the bitterest month of the winter. It was just one grueling, annoying, or depressing illness after another. First it was a flu, which turned into a sinus infection, and then an awful throat infection, followed by a cold. I was miserable, and, no doubt, miserable to be around. Late one night
- [When Evil-Speaking Creeps Unawares Among Us](https://www.mormonmatters.org/when-evil-speaking-creeps-unawares-among-us/) - Last week, there was some heated debate here about More Open Mormon History. I don't want to open that exact same discussion all over again, but I do want to look a little more closely at the motivation behind our conversations here. I find Jude 1:4, 8-10 to be absolutely fascinating. I have eliminated the
- [St Patrick, a Wonderful Missionary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/st-patrick-a-wonderful-missionary/) - Since today is St Patrick's Day, I wanted to write a quick post about St Patrick. Few people know his story. I know that Mormons love to tell and listen to great missionary stories, and I think Patrick is an example of forgiveness, missionary work, and Christian service. I'll keep it brief, but a longer
- [What all can we do, anyway?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-all-can-we-do-anyway/) - One of my fencing coaches often relates a story about how she despises the parents of little fencing kids. And this is not isolated. Soccer moms, fencing moms, Girl Scout moms, etc., etc., are all insane. As my coach relates this story, she points out the reasoning of fencing moms: if their kid is doing
- [Soliciting Opinions for a Marriage Sunday School Class](https://www.mormonmatters.org/soliciting-opinions-for-a-marriage-sunday-school-class/) - In the next month or so I will be teaching a six-week Sunday School course based on "Strengthening Marriage: A Resource Guide for Couples" from LDS.org. Has anyone taught or been in this class (or any class in the church on relationships) before? What worked? What didn't? What was interesting? What was boring? So far
- [A So-Called Case Study](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-so-called-case-study/) - So-called: 1. called or designated thus 2. incorrectly called or styled thus Two definitions: one is fairly generic, the other carries with a challenge towards an allegation. The word 'so-called' appears reasonably frequently in church publications, and grammatically, it almost invariably appears before a noun or a noun clause. With a little wildcard searching, we
- [International Ignorance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/international-ignorance/) - Someone mentioned in a blog post that I read recently about how accessible materials and information about the Church are for us these days: blogs, books (official and unofficial), news, the internet in general. I couldn't agree more. There's a wealth of information about the Church at our fingertips and goodness knows that many of
- [Moving along on both tracks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/moving-along-on-both-tracks/) - Well, my latest ponderings. Your feedback will be welcome. Mormonism is unique among America's religions in that it travels along two paths simultaneously, and each path is buttressed by a belief in historicity. The first path is that of the historicity of the Book of Mormon. So much is invested in Nephi and Lehi being
- [Why Mormon Doctrine Is NOT Mormon Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-mormon-doctrine-is-not-mormon-doctrine/) - Many people both within the Church and outside the Church think that Bruce R. McConkie's book, Mormon Doctrine, is the official declaration of LDS church doctrine. Today's guest post is by Paradise Destroyed. Here are several reasons why Mormon Doctrine is NOT Mormon Doctrine: Mormon Doctrine was written when Brother McConkie was a member of
- [Positive Black History in the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/positive-black-history-in-the-church/) - Much has been made of the LDS Church's unflattering history regarding the priesthood ban. But there are some positive stories. I'd like to address some things that happened prior and during the ban that are more positive in nature to the church. I've found that shorter posts get read more, so I'll try to keep
- [Does Tom Hanks Hate Mormons?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/does-tom-hanks-hate-mormons/) - Tom Hanks is a beloved actor to many Mormons for his family-friendly roles and everyman quality. Yet, his recent negative remarks (and hasty retraction) calling Mormons who supported Prop 8 "unAmerican," and his role as executive producer on Big Love which is about to air the most sacred Mormon ritual on television begs the question:
- [Big Love -Big News](https://www.mormonmatters.org/big-love-big-news/) - The only time I have seen Big Love is on a transatlantic flight back home to Salt Lake. My initial thoughts were how amazing to have a church just like ours (almost) right in our back door and no one seems to know of it, as they keep it fairly discreet on the show. From
- [Looking to turn Mormon Matters into a Group Blog](https://www.mormonmatters.org/looking-to-turn-mormon-matters-into-a-group-blog/) - As an act of obedience to Elder Ballard, I'm looking into the option of turning Mormon Matters into a group blog (like T&S, BCC, the Cultural Hall and FMH). Our slant would be: Practical discussions about Mormonism as a culture.... Seeking balance from all sides of the faith spectrum (Fundamentalist, Orthodox, Moderate, Liberal, RLDS and
- [Robert Millet & Krista Tippet Pt. 3: Robert Millet as a Budding "Sunstone" or "New Order" Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/robert-millet-krista-tippet-pt-3-robert-millet-as-a-budding-sunstone-or-new-order-mormon/) - As I'm sure you've discovered by now -- my takeaways from this interview between Krista Tippet and LDS Theologian and BYU Religion Professor Robert Millet say much more about me than they do Brother Millet. That said -- in part 3 of this series, I'm going to make my argument that within this interview, we
- [From Black Panther to Mormon: The Case of Eldridge Cleaver](https://www.mormonmatters.org/from-black-panther-to-mormon-the-case-of-eldridge-cleaver/) - He’s the stuff of kitschy seminary teachers who like to make the Church hip to their edgy adolescents: Eldridge Cleaver. A real Alma the Younger story that those white kids in Utah Valley can understand. For those of you over the age of 60, Cleaver was nothing short of an icon. After serving time in
- [Soliciting Advice for My Son](https://www.mormonmatters.org/soliciting-advice-for-my-son/) - My oldest son has finished all of the preparation that is required to submit his mission papers, and our Stake President has formally submitted his application. Therefore, we should know where he will be serving around the end of the month - and he probably will leave around the beginning of this summer. This is
- [The "Doctrine of the Family"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-doctrine-of-the-family/) - I was disturbed as I read the Visiting Teaching Message for the month of March. It is titled "Uphold, Nourish, and Protect the Family," and begins with the question, "Why must I defend the doctrine of the family?" The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: "The family is ordained of God. Marriage between
- [Dancing through the Sidebar ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dancing-through-the-sidebar-junior/) - Feel free to comment on any of the following links - or any others in the sidebar: Hat night at Mesa Temple Wow, could these guys be more Mormon? I know that narcissism is true. HOLY CRAP!! If You Can't Be Moral, at Least Be Rich Is the Garden of Eden Actually a Real Place?
- [The Larger-Than-Life Relics of Heritage, Part I: The Sweetwater Rescue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-larger-than-life-relics-of-heritage-part-i-the-sweetwater-rescue/) - I'm not one of those "let's prove popular stories incorrect so we can watch the orthodox-squirm" kind of fellows. You know the kind...they start their debunking by saying: "You won't find this in the handbooks," and top it off by saying: "I just think it's so 'interesting' that we want to forget our history"
- [Is Mormon Culture Depressing Utahns?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-mormon-culture-depressing-utahns/) - Ever since I read the MHA study ranking Utah as the #1 most depressed state in the U.S., I've been asking my Mormon friends and family why they think Utah has a higher percentage of population reporting depression than any other state. Usually, the initial response I get is one of surprise. Mormons I talk
- [Mormon Art - the Good, the Bad and the Ugly](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-art-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/) - From the misguided and ill-conceived to the hurl-worthy, why is there so much bad Mormon Art? Do Mormons have worse artistic taste than non-Mormons? Or just on par? You be the judge. I've included various works of art below, all by Mormon artists. Some I like and some I don't. See what you think. To
- [Faith and Logic: Finding and Navigating an Individual Balance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/faith-and-logic-finding-and-navigating-an-individual-balance/) - NOTE: This is a guest post by David Stout, Disciples of Christ minister. I write from the perspective of a Disciples of Christ minister whose girlfriend is a devout Mormon. I am, therefore, very sympathetic and supportive of the LDS (I pray for your church daily) but embrace the theological position often known as Protestant
- [The Nature of God and Bible <strike>Bashing</strike> Sharing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-nature-of-god-and-bible-bashing-sharing/) - Like many members of the church, I believe that humankind is of the same species as God; that our Heavenly Parents are like us only on a higher level of development. To me, the doctrine is one of the most awe-inspiring and exciting aspects of Mormon theology. I have heard enough slams of Mormon theology
- [Filtered Visions by guest Reuben Collins ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/filtered-visions-by-reuben-collins/) - I've been thinking about Levi Peterson's The Backslider lately (SPOILERS AHEAD). The 1986 novel tells the story of Frank Windham, a Mormon cowboy from southern Utah. Frank struggles with his faith and finding his place in Mormon culture. Topics including sexual sin, backsliding, self-mutilation, and guilt have made this novel pretty controversial in many Mormon
- [Interview with David Murphy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/interview-with-david-murphy/) - The chance to do an interview like this doesn't happen too often. David Murphy is a kind, energetic young man who does promotions for Simeon "Young Sim" Lawrence's clean record label, Feel Good Music in Salt Lake City. On Friday, a 45-year-old man named Jeffrey Boyd Ackerman was shot and killed in Pleasant Grove, Utah,
- [More Open Mormon History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/more-open-mormon-history/) - I attended a few Mormon History Conferences last weekend. I gave a more detailed account on my blog, but wanted to see how Mormon Matters readers react to a few comments made at these conferences. Elder Marlin K Jensen told of a study done by the church, which stated that members who knew more about
- [Go to Church or Die!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/go-to-church-or-die/) - A recent article in Time discusses several studies about the correlation between faith and health. Does church attendance contribute to a healthier, longer life? Is Mormon culture more or less health-promoting than other faiths?A few things noted in various studies in the article: Intercessory prayer for the sick only has a health benefit when the
- [RS/PH #28:  Missionary Service: A Holy Calling, a Glorious Work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/rsph-28-missionary-service-a-holy-calling-a-glorious-work/) - Missionary Work—When I first saw the topic, I thought “Ugh, what a boring topic.” But I was pleasantly surprised, and learned some things about early LDS missionary work. From the Manual Heber C. Kimball, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, recalled: “About the first day of June 1837, the Prophet Joseph came to
- [Every exmember a missionary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/every-exmember-a-missionary/) - And now, dear friends at Mormon Matters, is your regular report from the Dark Side of the Moon. I was reading a comment in another article here, and what Doug had said intrigued me: This board started out as a place for middle-way thinking people to discuss problematic issues with doctrine and history. It would
- [Shipbuilding:  Tasks or Vision?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/shipbuilding-tasks-or-vision/) - Spending a week in the Pacific Northwest on vacation, surrounded by boats and the vastness of the sea, when I read this quote from Antoine de Saint-Exupery on my way home, I couldn't get it out of my head: If you want to build a ship, don't herd people together to collect wood and don't
- [My Struggle with Formal Prayer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/my-struggle-with-formal-prayer/) - NOTE: This post is a combination (with minor edits) of two posts that I wrote on my own blog this month, as I contemplated Matthew 6:5-13. If anyone is interested in the foundation post on those verses, it is titled, "Resolved to Pray: KISS". I always have struggled to pray formally and daily on a
- [Brigham Young: Prophet, Pioneer . . . Radical Environmentalist?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/brigham-young-prophet-pioneer-radical-environmentalist/) - Although Brigham Young is one of the most well-known Presidents of the LDS Church, perhaps second only to Joseph Smith, it seems most Mormons are completely unaware of his passionate beliefs about caring for the Environment. We owe Hugh Nibley an enormous debt of gratitude for collecting Brigham's teachings about the Environment and publishing them
- [Why aren't Mormons Green?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-arent-mormons-green/) - I have lived here in the UK -London for 20 years now and when friends and family come over they sometimes comment on how green we are over here. They observe that most of us dry our clothes on the line, drive much smaller cars, live in shoe box’s compared to the average size of
- [The Almost-Right Place: Joseph Smith and the Texas Republic](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-almost-right-place-joseph-smith-and-the-texas-republic/) - By the time my FHE activity was over, I had the counselor in the bishopric grumbling about how I was on the high road to excommunication (“like those historians at BYU”). Why? Because I suggested that Joseph Smith might have actually temporarily imagined a different “right place” besides the Rocky Mountains. Where? Texas. Background: Back
- [The Stories We Tell](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-stories-we-tell/) - Joseph Campbell said: Read myths. Read other people's myths, not those of your own religion, because you tend to interpret your own religion in terms of facts--but if you read the other ones, you begin to get the message. So, what are the myths of Mormonism? In a way all storytelling is myth-creation. In re-telling
- [Would This Gay Marriage Compromise Work? ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/would-this-gay-marriage-compromise-work/) - David Blankenhorn and Jonathan Rauch co-wrote an article recently in the New York Times called, "A Reconciliation on Gay Marriage". I have linked the full article above and excerpted the first three paragraphs word-for-word below: IN politics, as in marriage, moments come along when sensitive compromise can avert a major conflict down the road. The
- [Dancing through the Sidebar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dancing-through-the-sidebar/) - There are some fascinating articles we find occasionally and post in the sidebar, and then there are others that simply are too funny to ignore. Feel free to read and comment in a free-for-all style on any or all of the following articles - or anything else in the sidebar: RIP, Larry Miller - and
- [What is the Holy Ghost?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-the-holy-ghost/) - One of my favorite parts about BYU-Idaho, or rather, one thing I actually liked about BYU-Idaho, was the religion classes. Systematic, academic study of the Standard Works was something I'd never experienced before and I loved it. One thing that hit me like a ton of bricks in the middle of a religion class at
- [Born To Believe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/born-to-believe/) - A while back, some of us had an interesting discussion on my blog called "The Faith Gene." We were examining the possibility that certain people were born with such a gene, while others weren't.Personally, I find it hard to believe that faith is genetic. But at the same time, it certainly appears that some of us,
- [Baptism Rant](https://www.mormonmatters.org/baptism-rant/) - Today's post is by guest blogger The Teacher. I know what you are thinking: "You have a rant about baptism?" Yes, I do. One of my pet peeves is telling innocent little kids that they need to repent of their sins in order to get baptized. You hear it with surprising frequency, like at almost
- [More Unbridled Speculation -- the Priesthood Ban](https://www.mormonmatters.org/more-unbridled-speculation-the-priesthood-ban/) - It seems like everyone likes to speculate about the priesthood. Who can resist? It would be fun to go over all the speculations others have had, and all the statements some had to make acknowledging that they were mistaken. But why do that, why not engage in some unbridled speculation of our own? A good
- [Jesus for President!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/jesus-for-president/) - Many view the Second Coming as a time when Jesus will personally and politically reign, not just host lamb & lion mixers. So what do you think? Will Jesus govern politically? Or is the notion that Jesus will govern politically more of the same wishful thinking that people had the first time around when they
- [On the perfect smile](https://www.mormonmatters.org/on-the-perfect-smile/) - I really don't know if it's just me, but have you ever noticed that there are a lot of LDS dentists? I mean, sure, we've already heard from reliable sources that Mormons like professions, but what is the deal? What Mormons Like often spins off aspects of note in Mormon culture in a lighthearted way,
- [The Porter Rockwell Effect: Mormonism's Soft Spot for Bad Boys](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-porter-rockwell-effect-mormonisms-bad-boy-vulnerability/) - At BYU, I was a bit of a dabbler, at times, bordering on dilletantism. I took a week of Greek (too snotty), a year of Hebrew (being in company w/Brother Joseph has its perks, even it means having to tell people constantly that the JS translation bears little resemblance to the Masoretic text), and a
- [Common Scriptures in Review: JSH 1:19](https://www.mormonmatters.org/common-scriptures-in-review-jsh-119/) - [NOTE: This post is slightly longer than normal, since I am commenting on multiple phrases and words throughout the verse in question. Please pardon the length; I couldn't shorten it any more than I did - except to delete this disclaimer. *grin*] Perhaps the most reviled verse among non-Mormon Christians in the entire Mormon scriptural
- [Creeds of the Creedless](https://www.mormonmatters.org/creeds-of-the-creedless/) - The restoration was essentially based on a rejection of the creeds of Christendom which were declared "an abomination" and "those professors were all corrupt; that: ‘they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they
- [What is Truth?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-truth/) - When it comes to religion - can everyone know truth? Can anyone? Today's guest post is from Justin Perry. it seems like most people fall in between two extremes when it comes to the ability of human beings to know about God: On one end (and according to most TBMs), anyone, at least in theory, can know
- [The Role of the Church in the Pursuit of Righteousness: Why It Works for Some and Not for Others](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-role-of-the-church-in-the-pursuit-of-righteousness-why-it-works-for-some-and-not-for-others/) - Last April, as I was contemplating my monthly New Year's resolution (Hunger and Thirst After Righteousness), something struck me quite forcefully - something I had never considered previously in quite the same way. I was struck by the difference between "righteousness" and "spirituality". Since that epiphany, I also have considered the difference between "religiosity" and
- [Revelation & Things](https://www.mormonmatters.org/revelation-things/) - Today's post comes from The Teacher. Section 8 of the Doctrine & Covenants refers to "another gift" Olivery Cowdery had, called at different times "the gift of Aaron" or "the rod of nature." Several commentators recognize this gift as related to Oliver's use of a divining rod. If you interpret Oliver's "gift of Aaron" in
- [How much truth is too much?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-much-truth-is-too-much/) - It may be that some of you caught the excellent article in Monday's USA Today titled "How Much Truth Is Too Much?" It can be found at: http://blogs.usatoday.com/oped/forum_commentary/index.html Here is a fellow who struggled with his Roman Catholic church's treatment of the sex-abuse scandals, and finally left the communion, going to Eastern Orthodoxy. A point
- [Why Would God Create Ordinances?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-would-god-create-ordinances/) - LDS Church leaders have made it abundantly clear that the Church's claim to be the "only true and living Church" does not mean Mormons have a monopoly on truth or divine inspiration; nor does it mean the LDS Church is the only organization through which God works to guide his children and accomplish his good
- [Why Faith Needs Doubt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-faith-needs-doubt/) - The very existence of what is commonly called the "veil" seems to tell us at least two things about what God intended real faith to be: First, that he wanted faith to be a choice; for if God were to give us obvious and indisputable proof of his existence and doings, we would not need to
- [Celibacy and Sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/celibacy-and-sexuality/) - As they say, sex sells. The church has had a lot to say about sex and sexuality. It's been on a winding path, but over time it has developed a rather comprehensive universe-view to back its positions. I like to think, even if some people vehemently disagree with the church position, or think that the
- [Unbridled Speculation, the Series Begins](https://www.mormonmatters.org/unbridled-speculation-the-series-begins/) - Thought I'd start with one by Hyrum Smith Do you know why the Terrestrial Kingdom is like the moon? It waxes and wanes as it fills up and then empties out as people progress between kingdoms. http://www.mormonmiscellaneous.com/notecards/id117.html http://www.nationmaster.com/encyclopedia/Terrestrial-Kingdom Wasn't that a lot more fun than wondering why twelve step programs work with alcohol but don't
- [What Darwin Could Teach Richard Dawkins and the Mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-darwin-could-teach-richard-dawkins-and-the-mormons/) - Man with all his noble qualities, with sympathy which feels for the most debased, with benevolence which extends not only to other men but to the humblest living creature, with his god-like intellect which has penetrated into the movements and constitution of the solar system - with all these exalted powers - Man still bears
- [Zero Population is the Answer, My Friend . . .](https://www.mormonmatters.org/zero-population-is-the-answer-my-friend/) - Thought I'd catch your attention with that line from "Saturday's Warrior," the bane (or bastion, if you don't know what you're talking about) of Mormon doctrine.* There was an interesting article in NYT about how children can negatively impact marriages. So, what's the real scoop on these tiny little homewreckers? Read on . . . The
- [Oliver Cowdery Was Punk'd!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/oliver-cowdery-was-punkd/) - When you hear the name Oliver Cowdery, you probably think of the story that culminates in the revelation that became Section 9 of the Doctrine & Covenants. This section uses Oliver as a (bad) example of how to seek and receive personal revelation. Today's guest post is from The Teacher. Come visit The Teacher here.
- [The Curious Case of Solomon Spaulding](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-curious-case-of-solomon-spaulding/) - For years now I've heard people offhandedly dismiss the Book of Mormon as a known plagiarism of "the Solomon Spaulding manuscript." I've finally gotten around to researching this oft-cited alternative theory about the true origins of the Book of Mormon, and I was both perplexed and amused by what I found. For rarely does one
- [Upon What Rock?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/upon-what-rock/) - There's a difference in interpretation between how LDS and non-LDS view the statement by Jesus to Peter when he says "Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church." While all might agree that there is a play on words between the name "Peter" and "rock," Catholics consider this scripture as the origin
- [Modern-Day Swearing: Will Our Bastardized Words Damn Us to Hell?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/modern-day-swearing-will-our-bastardized-words-damn-us-to-hell/) - I believe we need to take responsibility for understanding and choosing what we say and do - not allowing others to make those decisions for us. With that in mind, I am addressing the "what", "why" and "so what" of "swearing and cursing". The best Biblical statements regarding swearing and cursing include the following: “Thou
- [The Purposes of God Cannot Be Frustrated](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-purposes-of-god-cannot-be-frustrated/) - The title is from DC3:1. Today's guest post is from Bouvet and is in reference to this year's Doctrine & Covenants manual, Lesson 4 is Remember the New Covenant, Even the Book of Mormon. This year the lesson manual has abandoned the idea of following the development of the Church and the reception of the revelations
- [Who needs false doctrines when you can have unbridled speculation (a new series)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/who-needs-false-doctrines-when-you-can-have-unbridled-speculation-a-new-series/) - "Say nothing but repentance unto this generation" D&C 11:9. How much fun is that? Something I really enjoyed about BYU was the weekly devotionals. They were not enough for me to finish my undergraduate degree there, but I really enjoyed them. One talk that really struck me was a talk by Spencer W. Kimball on
- [The Symbolic Image of Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-symbolic-image-of-christ/) - Much has been said in church magazines and the Bloggernacle about the image of Joseph Smith. Do we know what Joseph Smith really looked like? Are our statues and paintings truly representative of him? This is not the point of my post here, though. I recently had a conversation with my fiancee about Rastafarianism, mentioning
- [Gospel Euphemisms](https://www.mormonmatters.org/gospel-euphemisms/) - Exodus 20:7: Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Euphemism: 1. the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt. I'm not going to talk about
- [Are We Cross at the Cross?  ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-we-cross-at-the-cross/) - As I was getting ready for church one Sunday, I went to put on a necklace. I looked at the cross that a non-LDS family member gave me a few years ago. She knows I'm a Christian and I'm sure she thought it would be a nice gesture (which it absolutely was!), but I opted
- [I WOULD MAKE A LOUSY GOD!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/i-would-make-a-lousy-god/) - Satan wanted God's glory and power. His plan was to force every soul to choose good by taking away our agency. But that would have defeated God's purpose- to test us. "And I, the Lord God, spake unto Moses, saying: That Satan... is the same which was from the beginning, and he came before me,
- [Where would you go?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/where-would-you-go/) - A few posts on MormonMatters got me thinking once about my relationship with other faith groups. For instance, a recent post on why it seems that ex-Mormons have a hard time joining other denominations. Valoel wrote a blog post on what you'd do if you found out that the Church weren't true through some sort
- [Why Is It So Hard for Many Ex-Mormons to Join Another (Traditional) Christian Denomination?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-is-it-so-hard-for-ex-mormons-to-join-another-christian-denomination/) - I had a job a long time ago as the Training Manager at a company that was going through the ISO 9000 certification process. For those who are unfamiliar with that process, it is an auditing system that focuses on the internal working of a company - looking not at whether a company is involved
- [Why I Like the Correlation Committee](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-i-like-the-correlation-committee/) - I am going to state what is bound to be a wildly unpopular opinion: I really like the Correlation Committee. For example, if one is to believe in prophecy, then what is one to make of the vast numbers of prophets that existed at the time of, say, Lehi? Prophethood was hardly monolithic–there were other
- [False Doctrine, the Neverending Story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/false-doctrine-the-neverending-story/) - I'll get back to folk doctrines and unsubstantiated rumors in a little bit. Right now I'm going to write about one of the most enduring of the false doctrines. My most recent brush with this doctrine comes from someone telling me about a friend's bishop in Portland, Oregon. They were certain he needed to speak
- [Authority Problem? Why not morality?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/authority-problem-why-not-morality/) - About a week ago (if I've got this newfangled blog software system set up and can submit this article correctly this time, that is [what's worse is that I use this stuff for my own blog, actually {sorry guys; I'm really breaking the blog fourth wall here}]), Hawkgrrrl wrote about The Problem with Morality. In
- [Horus Bible Parallels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/horus-bible-parallels/) - Recently I saw Religulous here and he touched on Horus here and a few of the parallels between the story of Horus and Jesus. Many Mormons when they start delving and unravelling events in our history also delve into what they can find out about (possible origins) to the bible or even if you want
- [Gender: A State of Mind](https://www.mormonmatters.org/gender-a-state-of-mind/) - This is a post written initially on my own blog. It was reprinted on Feminist Mormon Housewives a while back. It created a very lively discussion and even got some comments from a few people who had personally been through a transgender operation. I have edited the original post to make it more up-to-date and to
- [Anomaly ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/anomaly/) - This post edited to clear up confusion caused by careless and clueless use of language. Some miracles seem to be reliable. As a missionary, I found that if people would read the Book of Mormon and pray about it, they would feel the Spirit. However, some miracles just seem to happen, and it is, perhaps,
- [Story Time: A Thought Experiment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/story-time-a-thought-experiment/) - Names and identities have been invented and caricatured as necessary. Miller is a member of the church. He magnifies all of his callings, does all of the so-called "standard primary answers" (reads the scriptures, prays, attends his meetings, fasts, etc.,) He is seen around his ward as a beacon for what youth should be doing.
- [A Brand New Year](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-brand-new-year/) - The onset of 2009 brings an opportunity for young people of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to renew their commitment to their faith while participating in a program of instruction, song and dance that reviews the activities of 2008. The program also introduces their theme as Mormon youth for the new year:
- [Sunday School As Ritual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/3838/) - “Read your scriptures” “Go to Church” “Watch Saturday’s Warrior” (heaven help the Sunday School who has a Saturday’s Warrior faction) "Sunday School answers" generally do not receive very good press from many Latter-day Saints, especially those of the blogging ilk. Instructors beg, plead with their students: “Let’s dig a little deeper, shall we?” The typical
- [Is God a Mormon?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-god-a-mormon/) - NOTE: This is another post from our newest author - Faithful Dissident. Whether we're Mormon, Baptist, Catholic, Jewish, or Muslim, we all believe that God is on our side and that we are doing His will. Could it be that God really is on all our sides, as long as we are doing what is
- [Why I Almost Went on a Mission](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-i-almost-went-on-a-mission/) - I hear there's a Primary song -- "I hope they call me on a mission." I've never actually heard it sung, but I vaguely know that it does exist and that there are some members who have their kids sing it enough that they internalize it. I never grew up with that, of course. Missions
- [The Problem with Authority](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-problem-with-authority/) - Mormons are sometimes criticized for their unquestioning obedience to authority. Statements like "When the prophet has spoken, the thinking is done," and the Primary song "Follow the prophet" come to mind as well as the belief that even if leaders are mistaken, we should follow them. Do Mormons have an unhealthy respect for authority? In
- [Glorifying "The Good Old Days"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/glorifying-the-good-old-days/) - I think it's fascinating to watch people justify their angst over prophets by pointing out all the "weird" stuff about which prophets used to speculate, then turn around and criticize the current church leaders for being "boring" because they won't speculate any more. I also think it's fascinating that most of the people who long
- [In Search of the Historical Joseph...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/in-search-of-the-historical-joseph/) - If you think the title tips my hand, hold onto your hats. Indeed, I am consciously borrowing from Albert Schweitzer's famed work, In Search of the Historical Jesus, itself the culmination of a century of scholarship that had essentially denied the Messianic nature, instead promoting an entire movement of scholarship that promoted the Gospels as
- [How My Wife Exercises Her Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-my-wife-exercises-her-priesthood/) - Tired of talking about gay marriage? How about women and the Priesthood? :) In all seriousness, let me share with you a recent experience that has had a profound impact on the way I view the concept of Priesthood, and that has convinced me, once and for all, that I am not the sole Priesthood
- [Our Foundation Stories Part VI: The Laying on of Hands](https://www.mormonmatters.org/our-foundation-stories-part-vi-the-laying-on-of-hands/) - This is the last installment of Our Foundation Stories, I promise! As a child, I heard the story of the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek priesthoods this way: In May of 1829 Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery were praying in the woods about baptism and had John the Baptist appear to them, put his
- [Celestial Marriage Amendment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/celestial-marriage-amendment/) - I read this letter in the Salt Lake Tribune this morning, and even though I know it’s a satirical slam, I could not help but agree with the idea proposed. Is that bad? “Marriage for all eternity is being threatened. Many male members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are married to
- [Dual-Membership, Dual-Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/dual-membership-dual-priesthood/) - A good friend from my high school and college days contacted me a couple of months ago. He told me the news that he was engaged. He and his girlfriend had finally decided to get married. They have been living together for the past 5 years, and felt they were ready to take this big
- [Confessions of a Coffee Heathen](https://www.mormonmatters.org/confessions-of-a-coffee-heathen/) - In the past, I consumed large amounts of Mountain Dew and “energy drinks.” I’m getting older now (almost 40). My insides just can’t tolerate the sugar and chemicals. I won’t consume aspartame. It’s an awful substance. So “diet” is not an option. I recently started drinking plain, black coffee at work. Not only do I
- [I'm Okay; You're Okay](https://www.mormonmatters.org/im-okay-youre-okay/) - I have one component to my life that prompts little discussions from the lowliest church member to most recently the temple president and I really wish everyone would drop it. You see, I did the unthinkable five years ago, I married someone that is not LDS. Please welcome first time guest blogger Denae. I did
- [Excommunication: Shame or Fame?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/excommunication-shame-or-fame/) - We've all seen the headlines: Excommunicated: LDS Church boots creator of 'Men on a Mission' calendar Local gay Mormon faces excommunication LDS author facing excommunication Note: The links are all active Where do these headlines come from? The Church or the individuals themselves? There was a time (and perhaps still is) when church discipline was
- [The other version of the Abraham story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-other-version-of-the-abraham-story/) - What if Abraham had disobeyed God? Here’s the other version of the story I dug up after breaking into secret Illuminati archives and comparing translations with those hidden in the depths of the Vatican library. I decoded the rest using a Knights Templar cipher wheel obtained from a street vendor selling souvenirs outside the US
- [The Age of (Un)Accountability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-age-of-unaccountability/) - NOTE: This is the first post for a new Guest Author - The Faithful Dissident. We look forward to many more to come. Growing up with younger siblings, I always had a hard time believing that Satan couldn't possess kids under the age of eight. And that goes for myself too, since if what my
- [Conservative Evangelicals & Liberal Mormons: Are They Really Similar In Ways?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/conservative-evangelicals-liberal-mormons-are-they-really-similar-in-ways/) - The following quotes are excerpted from an article written in 1989 and quoted by the Fundamental Evangelists Association. (The entire article is an interesting look into the factions within evangelism.) I was struck by the concerns expressed within a couple of the statements and simply want to explore them here as they relate to Mormonism. (The
- [Abstinence= Don’t think the colour red! Don’t think the colour red!  ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/abstinence-don’t-think-the-colour-red-don’t-think-the-colour-red/) - “The National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health” (Add Health), Found that conservative and evangelical Christian teenagers are more sexually active than mainline Protestants, Jews, and even Mormons. On average, white evangelical Protestants begin having sex shortly after turning sixteen, which is sooner than most other groups. Moreover, because of the widespread conservative and evangelical Christian
- [Peace, Be Still: And There Was a Great Calm (Mark 4:36-39)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/peace-be-still-and-there-was-a-great-calm-mark-436-39/) - In trying to understand more deeply what it means to be a peacemaker, I was struck by the way that the following account is worded: And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. And there arose
- [How Hitchens, Dawkins and Harris Got it Wrong -- And Right](https://www.mormonmatters.org/how-hitchens-and-dawkins-got-it-wrong-and-right/) - Man I love this article. It's an interview with a Harvard Psychiatrist and Director of Harvard's "Study of Adult Development" -- discussing the importance and healthiness of religion. I won't dare tell you what magazine it comes from. Some of my favorite quotes: "Until you had religion that said love and compassion were more important
- [Obnoxious Folk Doctrines -- the unstoppable force](https://www.mormonmatters.org/obnoxious-folk-doctrines-the-unstoppable-force/) - There were several complaints about the false doctrine thread -- about how I was slighting folk doctrines. I'll be back to the false doctrine series soon, but thought I would take a moment out and discuss a folk doctrine or two. "Tell her to obey me because I have the priesthood." There is a folk
- [Guest Post: How Would You Have Reacted?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/guest-post-how-would-you-have-reacted/) - Introduction: The following is from a post by Reuben at SingleSpeed titled "Harmonica at Church". He has agreed to let us post it here, with some questions for discussion: "My 3rd favorite thing about the LN Ward is Brother P. He's a tall, slender old man whom I've never heard say two words, but he
- [The Ghosts of Modernity in a Rural Mormon Town](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-ghosts-of-modernity-in-a-rural-mormon-town/) - The land of Star Valley is an almost mystical one, surreal in its environs and mystical in its origin. The last of the Mormon settlements, it is nestled in the foothills of the Tetons as the one of the last outposts of the Mormon colonial experiment. Entering the valley is not unlike a drug-induced quaintness
- [In Whom Can I Trust?: How I Lost My Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/in-whom-can-i-trust-how-i-lost-my-faith/) - It's a familiar story: I read a book (or part of a book anyhow) about Mormon History and began to doubt my faith in the LDS Church. Your life lays on the floor, shattered before you. Are there any pieces worth salvaging, or is none of it worth a darn? Is there even a God? Does
- [Can you be a Unitarian and a Mormon at the Same Time?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/can-you-be-a-unitarian-and-a-mormon-at-the-same-time/) - We should gather all the good and true principles in the world and treasure them up, or we shall not come out true Mormons. Joseph Smith Are you a Unitarian without knowing it? We believe that: In the spirit of civil and religious liberty, equality of respect and opportunity is for everyone Everyone has the
- [The Difference Between Mercy and Kindness:How Does It Apply Here?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-difference-between-mercy-and-kindnesshow-does-it-apply-here/) - I was struck last year, as I worked to understand mercy better, by the difference between mercy and kindness. If I had not focused on meekness earlier in the year, when I defined meekness and where I discussed being gentler with the ones we love, I probably would have defined mercy in terms of being
- [Nipples, Sexism and Racism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/nipples-sexism-and-racism/) - There was an interesting article in Time recently about Facebook's censorship of pics with nips, specifically eliminating pictures of breastfeeding moms (and, in their defense, a few of topless women who just happened to be holding babies). But, this brought up an age-old question of Mormondom: why are there no nipples on the Nephites in the BOM vids?As expected,
- [New Year's Resolutions I Might Actually Try to Keep](https://www.mormonmatters.org/new-years-resolutions-i-might-actually-try-to-keep/) - First of all, Happy New Year to all our bloggers and participants here at Mormon Matters. I hope that 2009 brings peace and greater insight to your life. We are in the midst of some trying times, but as the Children of our Heavenly Father, we have no reason to fear, if we are prepared.
- [Spiritual Resolutions: My Practical Plan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/spiritual-resolutions-my-practical-plan/) - This year, I am instituting only one New Year's Resolution. It is the same resolution I made at the end of last year. That resolution has changed my life in a very profound way, so I am changing the specifics but keeping the overall focus. It deals directly with my personal understanding of the true
- ["Never Lead Us Astray." And Dissonance.](https://www.mormonmatters.org/never-lead-us-astray-and-dissonance/) - “So powerful is the need for congruence that when people are forced to look at disconfirming evidence, they will find a way to criticize, distort, or dismiss it so that they can maintain or even strengthen their existing belief.”
- [Temperance Movement and The Word of Wisdom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/temperance-movement-and-the-word-of-wisdom/) - For almost two centuries the Word of Wisdom is solid proven evidence to many members that the Church is true. Jeff Lindsay [The Word of Wisdom] outlines principles of healthy living that go far beyond the scientific knowledge of the 1800s and much of this century…The 1833 dietary guidelines sound much like the recommended "food
- [A letter from my sister...](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-letter-from-my-sister/) - Perhaps our feelings about tomorrow’s letter were abreacted in last week’s multifarious and sporadically acerbic discussion. My purpose here is to highlight some of the feelings and perspective of one who is connected to many aspects of the Church’s political action regarding gay marriage. My sister Emily is a lawyer in California, and gay (also kind, witty,
- [Secret Combinations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/secret-combinations/) - There seems to be a common thread running through the fringe theorists that I've talked to, and that is the idea of "secret societies." Illuminati, the Freemasons, Skull and Bones. It's the stuff of great novels, like The Da Vinci Code, and I've been surprised lately by those who even put secret societies behind recent
- [Celebrating Jesus' Birth: Building His Kingdom of Nobodies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/celebrating-jesus-birth-building-his-kingdom-of-nobodies/) - "Atonement" means "to make as one; to unify; to bring together what once was separated." When we speak of the Atonement, we generally focus on the Garden of Gethsemane and the Cross of Golgotha (where He finished the steps to allow us to become "at one" with Him and Our Father), but we often fail
- [Temple ceremony, the stabilizer for mystical enthusiasm](https://www.mormonmatters.org/temple-ceremony-the-stabilizer-for-mystical-enthusiasm/) - I've been thinking lately about the differences between the LDS Church we participate in today compared to what attracted and retained early members in the days of Joseph Smith. Joseph Smith was a religious mystic, recognized as a founding "prophet" of our modern church. The core of the story of Joseph and the restoration is
- [Who's Winning the War on Christmas?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/whos-winning-the-war-on-christmas/) - Peter Brimelow, a British journalist, is credited with coining the term "War on Christmas" in 1999 to describe the politically correct movement in English-speaking countries to neutralize public references to Christmas out of deference to non-Christians. This term has been popularized, especially by right-winger Bill O'Reilly and folks over 65 who like to forward outraged spam
- [Blood Brothers: Mormons, Genocide, and the Nixon Administration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/russell-blood-brothers-mormons-genocide-and-the-nixon-administration/) - Charles Radford, a Navy yeoman, present some fascinating questions about Latter-day Saints’ relationship with the government, the law, and politicians. Charles Radford was serving as a navyman aboard a ship in India. He was an active, married Latter-day Saint. In various venues, Radford was a trained stenographer who took down highly-secretive government documents about war
- [Orson Scott Card and LDS Music](https://www.mormonmatters.org/orson-scott-card-and-lds-music/) - Orson Scott Card recently made ripples with his recent column on his experience listening to a "new" LDS album, and the dire state of current LDS music. While I've heard these sentiments from many individuals, it usually takes a respected name like Orson Scott Card to point out that the Emperor has no clothes, and
- [Even More Annoying False Doctrines](https://www.mormonmatters.org/even-more-annoying-false-doctrines/) - God will not give you anything you can not handle. More closely allied to "don't worry, you will live through this" and "whatever doesn't kill me makes me stronger." Actually, people go mad, commit suicide without committing mortal sin, are abandoned by their spouses and have children die. We often face things that are more
- [Is the Trinity Doctrine a Contradiction?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-the-trinity-doctrine-a-contradiction/) - Several times in discussions on Mormon Matters I've made the comment that the Trinity doctrine is a contraction. Actually, technically I was not correct when I said that. I wish to explain my self further, partially backtracking on, or at least nuancing, those comments. The Trinity doctrine itself doesn't have to be a contradiction - indeed,
- [Trying to Understand Creedal Trinitarianism - An Analogy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/trying-to-understand-creedal-trinitarianism-an-analogy/) - In my last post I, in great detail, demonstrated why I believe the Trinity doctrine itself is not a contradiction but that creedal Christians have been trained to use it in a contradictory way. I did it using predict logic, tons of examples, and examples from real life conversations with creedal Christians. So that means no
- [The Glory of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-glory-of-god/) - “The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth.” (D&C 93:36) This oft-quoted verse is known well by most members of the church, and is even BYU’s motto. But despite the verse’s clear definition, concept of "glory" still seems fairly abstract, and is often difficult to conceptualize in a manner that
- [What is Good Church Leadership?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/rsph-24-leading-in-the-lords-way/) - What is good leadership? How did Joseph Smith envision church leadership? How does that differ from the church today and how is it the same? Today's lesson is from the Joseph Smith manual #24, Leading in the Lord's Way. Once again, Joe Spencer provides an excellent recap of the lesson here. He specifically makes a great point
- [The Unsung Hero of the Nativity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-unsung-hero-of-the-nativity/) - As I was setting up our nativity scene this year, I noticed the wisdom and cultural/racial diversity of the Magi, the docile farm animals (not minding the afterbirth on their food despite being herbivores), the grace and adoration of the Madonna with outstretched arms (and nary a stretch mark) toward the cooing babe, the aloof
- [Big Love, Season 3.  Finally Here!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/big-love-season-3-finally-here/) - Big Love Season 3 is set to start on January 18th. HURRAY! Here's a link to the official HBO website: Big Love at HBO Tired of the same old emergency room and police dramas? Sitcoms telling the same old jokes? Starting to wonder how real that reality TV show really is? Big Love! The most
- [Unity, Diversity and Conformity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/unity-diversity-and-conformity/) - How do we create and maintain unity at church while valuing diversity and avoiding conformity? Do we have to embrace the diversity of those who value conformity? Do we have to unify with those whose diversity gives us the heebie jeebies? This post is actually a virtual RS/PH lesson, #23: "How Good and How Pleasant
- [Does Religion Devalue Human Life?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/does-religion-devalue-human-life/) - Answer: Yes. Any questions? In a secular environment, human life has the highest value. Its preservation is the unquestioned bastion of our humanity. But in a religious environment, the worth of souls is greater than the life itself. Here are some related conclusions to that premise (see how many of these you have heard implied
- [Are Mormons Better Christians?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-mormons-better-christians/) - A friend of mine pointed out this blog article to me: http://timwade.wordpress.com/2008/12/02/are-mormons-better-christians/ It is a piece from an outsider looking in at the world of Mormonism and seeing things that he admires. I thought it interesting how he focused on some of our practices and rituals in a positive, different way than I expected --
- [Voting Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/voting-mormon/) - In a previous post, I explored the idea of defining “political” vs. “moral” issues for purposes of deciding when (and how) the Church should get formally involved. A related issue is whether we, even without formal instruction from the Church, are obligated to cast certain, pre-determined votes on select issues. Put another way, does my Mormonism
- [Mormon Ancestor Worship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-ancestor-worship/) - Do Mormons practice a form of ancestor worship? What does it mean that we must be saved "with all our dead"? I started to think about this concept when I was in Sicily last September, where I visited the Capuchin catacombs. Under the streets of Palermo, there are 8,000 deceased Sicilians dating from 1599 to 1920, mummified
- [Ok, So What If It Isn't True?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/ok-so-what-if-it-isnt-true/) - The Church of Jesus Christ claims to be the Restored Church of the Lord Jesus Christ and the "only true and living church on the face of the whole earth." (D&C 1:30) On the other hand, there are many in the world who would claim that the LDS Church is a false religion and because
- [The Book of Mormon: Would You Regularly Study Inspired Fiction?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-book-of-mormon-do-you-regularly-study-inspired-fiction/) - I'm intrigued by those on the bloggernacle that see The Book of Mormon as fiction but inspired by God. It's common to hear someone that holds that belief say that it doesn't really matter if The Book of Mormon is historical or not. In the past, Clay asked me if I thought that someone who
- [Rock the Gerontocracy!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/rock-the-gerontocracy/) - Larry King described the Mormon faith as a "gerontocracy" (Hello--Pot? Kettle here). Being led by 15 men with a median age of 76 is a unique feature of our church. So, what are the side effects of being in a gerontocracy? How does it color our life experience and perspectives? How does it affect the
- [A Few Choice Words on Swearing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-few-choice-words-on-swearing/) - What constitutes swearing? Is it always wrong? If so, why? Where does swearing come from? In the English language, we often refer to "four-letter" words as profanity. Most of these words entered the pejorative lexicon of swear-words after the Norman conquest of 1066. When William the Conquerer of Normandy became King of England, a linguistic
- [The Bright Night of My Soul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-bright-night-of-my-soul/) - Andrew wrote a beautiful and moving post recently - "Dark Night of the Soul". In reading that post and the subsequent comments, I had an epiphany about my own experience with certainty and doubt. I have been thinking about how to explain the difference between my experience and Andrew's - and, even more interesting, the
- [Our Foundation Stories Part IV: The Book of Mormon Translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/our-foundation-stories-part-iv-the-book-of-mormon-translation/) - Was the Book of Mormon translated? Was the Book of Mormon revealed? Was it inspired? Was it all three, or a combination of the above? How much does it matter? The accounts left by Joseph and others involved suggest that the translation of the Book of Mormon was conducted, with a few variations, largely in
- [Active in the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/active-in-the-church/) - My 21-year-old son, Ethan, was home from college for a couple weeks this summer. On Sunday when he came to church with us, our bishop asked him, “So, are you still active in the Church?” He asked this question in the presence of several other people, then proceeded to give a mini-talk on what it
- [White-Washing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/white-washing/) - "Whitewashing" is an accusatory term often used against the church to describe efforts to gloss over sticky points in doctrine or history. So, does the church engage in whitewashing? What is white-washing? According to Encyclopedia Britannica: to Whitewash is to gloss over or cover up vices, crimes, or to exonerate by means of a perfunctory investigation or through biased
- [Annoying False Doctrines Strike Again](https://www.mormonmatters.org/annoying-false-doctrines-strike-again/) - We were having someone dear to us taught in our home, when the elder looked at them and said ..."You do know that you might want to think twice about the time you spend with your Asian friends, since a darker skin color means that they were less valiant in the pre-existence."She completely lost interest.
- [That Time of Year ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/that-time-of-year/) - It’s that time of year again. The season to be jolly. The season to celebrate the birth of Christ. The season to eat sugar cookies and fudge. The season of the ward Christmas program. The annual ward Christmas sacrament meeting is a one and ten, sometimes at the same time. Some inspire with the stirring
- [Forbearance to Inflict Harm: Practical Mercy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/forbearance-to-inflict-harm-practical-mercy/) - "A man asked me to treat him as he deserved to be treated - as God would treat him. So, I set him on fire and sent him to Hell." "Mercy" is not defined in the Bible Dictionary, but "Mercy Seat" is - and the definition provides some interesting points of consideration. The definition says,
- [Populating Worlds: Joseph Smith's Legacy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/populating-worlds-joseph-smiths-legacy/) - I've always been rather fascinated with the "fruits" of Joseph Smith's polygamy. Orson Pratt, who was an early defender of plural marriage, often explained that its purpose was to participate in the blessings of Abraham and to more effectively populate worlds: "Therefore, a Father... could increase his kingdoms with his own children, in a hundred
- [Some MormonStories Interviews available at StayLDS site](https://www.mormonmatters.org/some-mormonstories-interviews-available-at-staylds-site/) - StayLDS.com is now hosting some of the material formerly available at MormonStories. Among these are: . . . The Fowler's Stages of Faith interview that puts the ideas into a Mormon context. Richard Bushman Claudia Bushman Gregory Prince Greg Kearney and a few others. StayLDS was given permission to host some of these really great
- [The Lord's University Strikes Again](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-lords-university-strikes-again/) - Once again, the Lord’s University, BYU, is embroiled in a controversy regarding censorship and the essential values being taught there. A student entered into a photographic exhibition head shots of gay and straight students at BYU. They were paired -- one gay and one straight -- without identifying which was which. There was no nudity,
- [Betting on the House!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/betting-on-the-house/) - "What do Catholics, Jews and Mormons have in common?" "Catholics don't recognize birth control, Jews don't recognize Jesus, and Mormons don't recognize each other in Nevada." In 1993 there were 1.7 million Utah residents, 1.2 million of whom were Mormons. It was estimated that 90 percent of the 700,000 gamblers in West Wendover each year
- [Annoying False Doctrines -- the Series](https://www.mormonmatters.org/annoying-false-doctrines-the-series/) - Ok, some false doctrines are just pathetic, some are disgusting, some are bizarre and some are merely annoying. I was going to post about Anomoly (may still get that post up in the rotation), but for the present, I'm addressing annoying false doctrines. I'll start with the "the better missionary you were, the hotter your
- [Virtual RS/PH #22:  Gaining Knowledge of Eternal Truths](https://www.mormonmatters.org/virtual-rsph-22-gaining-knowledge-of-eternal-truths/) - Mormonism has a focus on gaining knowledge that is unique in Christendom, largely due to the emphasis that Joseph Smith placed on learning. Joseph's total open-mindedness to both revelation and all forms of learning are central to the Mormon religion; this open-mindedness had potential for both good and bad outcomes. The lesson discusses two main
- [Elder Wirthlin's Last Messages of Love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/elder-wirthlins-last-messages-of-love/) - Anyone who favors term limits for members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles should take a close look at Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin's three last General Conference addresses. Written and delivered when he was ninety and ninety-one years of age, Elder Wirthlin's final three sermons are Exhibits A, B, and C in the case
- [Breaking News: Elder Wirthlin Died Last Night](https://www.mormonmatters.org/breaking-news-elder-wirthlin-died-last-night/) - My favorite apostle passed away last night. His "orchestra" reference in General Conference in April was one of my favorites ever. He will be missed. What are your favorite memories of Elder Wirthlin?
- [Keep Pedaling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/keep-pedaling/) - One thing that I don't see very often at Mormon Matters is the bearing of testimony. Some see the bearing of testimony as a form of social control, some may see it as people trying to convince themselves of truth, and so it seems that it doesn't have much "place" in academic discussions. Yet there
- [Common Scriptures in Review: Genesis 3:12 ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/common-scriptures-in-review-genesis-312/) - There is frequent debate and disagreement about exactly what transpired in the Garden of Eden relative to the partaking of the forbidden fruit. There are those who interpret the entire account allegorically - who come up with widely varying ways to liken it unto themselves. However, even among those who read it literally, there are
- [Half-way Mormons: A lesson from the Puritans](https://www.mormonmatters.org/half-way-mormons-a-lesson-from-the-puritans/) - I hope everyone enjoyed their turkey and stuffing for Thanksgiving last week. One thing I appreciate about the Puritans, other than their fondness for a good feast, burning witches, cool hats, repression of normal sexual desires, and providing the grist for great dramas like The Scarlet Letter and The Crucible, is the good sense of
- [Another "Faith Promoting" Hoax is Circulating](https://www.mormonmatters.org/another-faith-promoting-hoax-is-circulating/) - In the last few days, a story has begun to circulate widely among many LDS members, which claims to be the testimony of an assistant matron at the Los Angeles California Temple. Here is the story, as it has been publicized by e-mail and blogs: Date: Saturday, November 15, 2008, 6:16 PM My dear family, brothers and
- [British Mormons vs. US Mormons       ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/british-mormons-vs-us-mormons/) - I have lived here in the UK now for almost 20 years and most of my active years in the church have been here in England. But when I go back home (Salt Lake City) or remember my active years in the church there my mind is constantly doing comparisons! Here are few of the
- [If your heart is turned ... ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/if-your-heart-is-turned/) - Before the fall, Eve was a "help meet" to Adam. The term means a "companion equal." While the account is figurative as far as humanity is concerned, it is also instructive as to what goes on in an idealized or perfect world. In such a world, women are equal companions to men and are not
- [Thanksgiving Open Thread](https://www.mormonmatters.org/thanksgiving-semi-open-thread/) - This Thanksgiving, what things cause you to be thankful - that are somewhat unique and personal? I am thankful for many things, but there are some that stand out - specifically because they are mine and mine alone. They are shared, perhaps, in general with some others, but not all have been blessed in quite
- [Thanksgiving or Obedience:  Which one will you pick?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/thanksgiving-or-obedience/) - Is that a trick question? Giving thanks and being obedient hardly seem mutually exclusive. But as I re-examined a New Testament vignette that's oft-cited this time of year, that message stuck out like a sore thumb---though I had never noticed it before. The story of the ten lepers starts with: And it came to pass,
- [got guns?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/got-guns/) - While the various media outlets speculate about the possibility of a run on the banks in our precarious economic situation, I'm surprised we haven't yet seen any news reports about the run that's already underway. I'm talking about the run on gun shops that's going on as we speak. And no, I am not joking.
- [Twilight and "The Great Mormon Novel"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/twilight-and-the-great-mormon-novel/) - Many consider The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene to be the quintessential Great Catholic Novel: a book written about faith and doubt with great courage. So far, no one has written what one would call "The Great Mormon Novel." What are the hallmarks of a great novel? Plot. There must be conflict. There has
- [Little Lord Jesus, No Crying He Makes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/little-lord-jesus-no-crying-he-makes/) - Sometimes, I have to say to my creedal Christian friends, in all sincerity: We really do worship a different Jesus than you do. I mention sometimes to my family and friends my frustration over certain song lyrics and how they influence how we view Jesus, his mortality and His perfection. I realize it bothers my
- ["Mormon Fundamentalists" on Law & Order](https://www.mormonmatters.org/garments-on-law-order/) - Did anyone watch Law & Order last night on NBC? If you didn't, you missed an interesting parody based on the events that transpired in Texas with the FLDS Church. Instead of the FLDS Church it was The Church of the Path. Today's guest post is by The Captain. I was completely taken aback during this episode when
- [Healing the Waters of the Dead Sea](https://www.mormonmatters.org/healing-the-waters-of-the-dead-sea/) - The Relief Society teacher was teaching the lesson on the signs of the Second Coming, and she was writing these events on the board as fast as we sisters could shout them out. "Wars," "Rumors of wars," "Pestilence," "Earthquakes," she wrote. Then came an unusual one: "The waters of the Dead Sea will be healed."
- [The Biology of Irrationality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-biology-of-irrationality/) - In my previous post, I discussed my introduction to the science behind the rationality problems all humans suffer from. I later found another book, this one called Evil Genes: Why Rome Fell, Hitler Rose, Enron Failed, and My Sister Stole My Mother's Boyfriend, that introduced me to the biology behind our emotional -- and sometimes irrational --
- [History as Narrative Fallacy aka What Type of Apologist Are You?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/history-as-narrative-fallacy/) - "History is opaque. You see what comes out, not the script that produces events, the generator of history. There is a fundamental incompleteness in your grasp of such events, since you do not see what's inside the box, how the mechanisms work. ...the minds of the gods cannot be read just by witnessing their deeds.
- [Persecution Complex](https://www.mormonmatters.org/persecution-complex/) - Today's guest post is from The Captain. The urban dictionary defines the term persecution complex as follows: One of the top fifteen factors that can transform a reasonable, amiable, friendly person with reasonable, friendly beliefs and ideas into a ranting, screaming, judgmental zealot with poisonous, nauseating, self-righteous dreck for beliefs. A member of the Church
- [Virtual RS/PH #21:  The Second Coming & The Millenium](https://www.mormonmatters.org/virtual-rsph-21-the-second-coming-the-millenium/) - To the teachers out there, sorry if this one is coming a day late and a dollar short. Our ward is a month behind on these due to Stake & Ward Conferences. Mea culpa. Sometimes we forget that the early restored church focused a lot on the millenium, which many of them believed was imminent.
- [Should we have listened to BH Roberts? ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/should-we-have-listened-to-bh-roberts/) - BH Roberts predicted that if church leaders did not address the historical problems of church origins and possible anachronisms in the Book of Mormon, these problems would eventually undermine “the faith of the Youth of the Church. Increasingly teachers and church leaders at all levels are approached by Latter-day Saints who have lost confidence in
- [What is a Black Swan? A Book Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-a-black-swan-a-book-review/) - In my last post I talked about how God helped me develop a more realistic, though uncomfortable, world view that excluded faith in myself. As it turns out, there is scientific backing for this view. The first book that introduced me to that science is called The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable
- [The Problem of History - First a Fake Example](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-problem-of-history-first-a-fake-example/) - In my past posts I discussed the impossibility of knowing what really happened in history as well as the problem that, believe or disbelieve, we all have much riding on how Mormon history is interpreted. Either way, it's your personal religion at stake. The problem with me saying that is that, well, we all know
- [Are we having the wrong argument?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-we-having-the-wrong-argument/) - Something I have noticed on the Gay Marriage debates is what causes people to change their minds, and it is generally social proof. More, what I am seeing has caused me to think that arguing over gay marriage may be the wrong argument to be having. As for changing opinions: Those most likely to change
- [Gay Marriage!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/gay-marriage/) - GAY MARRIAGE ! . . . Well nothing else gets any attention around here, so I screamed it. . . . While nobody was looking, the investment bankers on Wall Street stole $1 trillion dollars and left YOU as the signer on the loan for it. Have fun never being able to retire. There's no
- [What is a Testimony?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-is-a-testimony/) - Ironically, some of you with “strong testimonies” may think that those struggling with their testimony make only a small percentage of us here today. The converse is also true; many of you who are “struggling” yourselves may believe that you are the only one in the ward that thinks or feels what you do or
- [This Won't Make It Past Correlation!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/this-wont-make-it-past-correlation-4/) - Here's another quote from a discarded Church manual predating Correlation. Who said it and why wouldn't it fly in today's Church?: The pragmatic or experimental view of life has penetrated widely into the educational program of America, in the form known as Progressive Education...Most teachers who accept some of these ideas would indignantly reject any
- [Bathos -- sometimes the worst of the false spirits](https://www.mormonmatters.org/bathos-sometimes-the-worst-of-the-false-spirits/) - The first talk of the Priesthood session reminded me of a man I met on my mission. His wife had died and he told us of all the things he had done in worship and prayer to seek God's help. He complained of how he had come up so empty. The list he gave us
- [Backlash: Anger and Outrage Against Mormon Support for Same-Sex Marriage Bans](https://www.mormonmatters.org/video-footage-of-protests-at-la-temple/) - For those interested in seeing video footage of the recent protests at the LDS temple in Los Angeles, see the links below: Fights in front of temple wall and in the street One Mormon guy verbally jousts with a crowd of angry protesters (WARNING: Explicit language. Parental guidance is suggested.) Angry protesters shake temple gates
- [Virtual RS/PH #20 - A Heart Full of Love & Faith:  The Prophet's Letters to His Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/virtual-rsph-20-a-heart-full-of-love-faith-the-prophets-letters-to-his-family/) - This lesson discusses the written correspondence Joseph sent to Emma during his frequent absences. IMO, this is a tough lesson for many reasons, so read on to see how you would make the most of it. The main difficulties with this lesson are: Lack of context. The letters (snippets) are presented without any context of
- [For the Little People](https://www.mormonmatters.org/for-the-little-people/) - For some time, Mormon bloggers have lamented the fact that there was no wide-reaching aggregator that featured solo Mormon-themed blogs. Dr. B. has, for the past few months, been attempting to remedy this situation. Shortly after he started the endeavor, which he calls Mormon Blogosphere, Elder Ballard's "call to blog" inspired a proliferation of bloggers
- [California's Prop 8 and the triumph of lunacy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/californias-prop-8-and-the-triumph-of-lunacy/) - Well, it's time for the non-Mormon blogger to chime in on Prop 8. As some of you know, I live in the San Diego area. I, along with the rest of my compatriots here, have been inundated with pro- and anti-Prop 8 propaganda. We must protect traditional marriage! (What the heck is that, anyway?) We
- [The Church as a Tool](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-church-as-a-tool/) - What is the church to you? A family you must learn to love? A path you must follow? A checklist of items you must do to be saved? Today's post talks about the church as a tool and is from guest poster Jordan Turner. I was given a tool (the church) and I used it
- [The Good News!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-good-news/) - . You dropped down into this crazy, frenetic, gloomy world; stumble and trip in the darkness, trying to feel your way through the valley of shadows. Nothing seems to work right. . . . You make mistakes, some of which cause deep pains of regret. If only you had known better ... but then again, how could you have known? You had
- [Election Open Thread (VENT or LAUGH)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/election-open-thread-vent-or-laugh/) - Just thought some of you might like a place to vent or laugh maniacally tonight - at least. Only one rule: This is not meant as a thread to "discuss the election" and try to convince someone else about which option is the best. It is meant primarily to be a place to highlight the
- [A Guide To Election Night](https://www.mormonmatters.org/a-guide-to-election-night/) - Here are some links to good technical tools for tracking the election: Politico.com - cool interactive maps, segmentation of different interests and types of races interesting image breaks down what to looks for tonight FiveThirtyEight - very technical analysis, lots of charts and maps Pollster.com - really cool interactive map which even shows which news
- [Same-Sex Marriage Proponents Trash Mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/same-sex-marriage-proponents-trash-mormons/) - See the video here: Same-Sex Marriage Proponents Trash Mormons
- [When Is Your Ox in the Mire?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/when-is-your-ox-in-the-mire/) - You probably know the Primary song about Sunday observance by heart: Saturday is a special day It's the day we get ready for Sunday We brush our teeth and we go to the bathroom So we don't have to do it 'til Monday Well, that's how my sister and I used to sing it anyway.
- [Is Mormonism Built to Last?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/is-mormonism-built-to-last/) - Christianity is generally considered a "successful" religion because it is still flourishing after 2000 years. Eastern religions, which are generally much older, have flourished for thousands of years, although their communal success seems to be declining. Islam, a highly successful religion, is a relative newcomer at just over 1400 years. What are the indicators of success,
- [Homosexuality, Politics, and Looking to November 5th](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-sun-will-rise-again-on-november-5th/) - On the eve of another election in the United States of America, many historic events are looming, both encouraging and daunting; Whatever happens, we will either elect our first person of color as President, or our first female as Vice President. We may see a 60-vote majority in the Senate for the Democratic party. But
- [The Mormon Urge to Glurge](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-urge-to-glurge/) - glurge (GLURJ) n. A sentimental or uplifting story, particularly one delivered via e-mail, that uses inaccurate or fabricated facts; a story that is mawkish or maudlin; the genre consisting of such stories. Not a day goes by that I do not get some sort of email glurge from a relative. Usually, the stories are designed
- [Why a Testimony of the Gospel is Not Enough](https://www.mormonmatters.org/why-a-testimony-of-the-gospel-is-not-enough/) - I have been under the impression over the last 26 years in the Church that if one had a pretty strong testimony of the Savior, the truthfulness of the Gospel as restored by the Prophet Joseph Smith and other essential doctrines, that if would be enough for the average member to weather the storms of
- [Through the Ears of a "Gentile"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/through-the-eyes-of-a-gentile/) - "I'm so glad I was born in this, the one true church of God." "Please bless the party leaders tonight [of the Republican Party] that they may be guided to make the right decisions." "Please be with our armed forces as they fight for freedom [in Iraq]." "The Book of Mormon gives us a much
- [Mormon Miracles:  Seeking for a Sign](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormon-miracles-seeking-for-a-sign/) - How much does God intervene in our lives? More than we give credit to Him or less than some would like to believe? Why do some require evidence of God's will in even the most mundane aspects of life? Is this seeking for a sign? Mormons are certainly not the only ones out there who are guilty of "seeking for a
- [Offenders for a Word - Part 1 - Is Jesus God?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/offenders-for-a-word-part-1-is-jesus-god/) - I love words - I love to read, write, talk - but I think words leave out almost everything. That [is] frustrat[ing]... feeling that what we can share with other people is so much more limited than what we actually experience... (link)-- Jaron Lanier Oh, Lord, deliver us in due time from the little, narrow
- [Give Said the Little Revenue Stream](https://www.mormonmatters.org/give-said-the-little-revenue-stream/) - Do Mormons do less charitable giving due to the commitment of paying tithing? Three months of the year, you can rest assured there will be garage sales popping up like mushrooms all over Utah. Why do Mormons enjoy selling their own castoffs and searching for "bargains" among other castoffs rather than donating these items to
- [An Hour of Peace and Rest](https://www.mormonmatters.org/an-hour-of-peace-and-rest/) - I usually enjoy going to church. I look forward to it, despite talks that are occasionally less-than-dazzling, overly-perfumed women in the pew in front of me, and the family in the third row that refuses to take their baby out, even when she screams during the sacrament. There’s one pet peeve, though, that irritates me
- [New Same-Sex Marriage Ruling; Same Old Polygamy Stereotypes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/new-same-sex-marriage-ruling-same-old-polygamy-stereotypes/) - Unless your last name is Van Winkle, you likely already know that, yesterday afternoon, the California Supreme Court concluded that the state's law prohibiting same-sex marriage (SSM, for short) is unconstitutional. Put more simply, in 30 days, SSM will be a reality in California. For those of us here on the Left Coast, things are
- [Offenders for a Word, Part 2 - Do Mormons Worship Jesus?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/offenders-for-a-word-part-2-do-mormons-worship-jesus/) - In my last post I wrote about how we are all forced to take a thought and translate it into words and that this is a sloppy and imperfect process. To make matters worse, the person that has to take those words and decode them back into a thought will fail to do so correctly
- [Evidences and Reconciliations 5/19/08](https://www.mormonmatters.org/evidences-and-reconciliations-51908/) - I intend this to be the first entry in a regular series, something you can look forward to on a Monday afternoon. Like all series, we can shift the air time around if necessary, like if I'm competing with American Idol or something. Here's the idea: I post two contradictory passages from scripture or statements
- [MormonNews: The End Of Temple Work As We Know It?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormonnews-the-end-of-temple-work-as-we-know-it/) - According to the Utah Catholic bishop, John Wester, the Vatican has issued a directive to not release parish records to LDS researchers (who then use them to perform vicarious ordinances. As I understand it, these records have been a major source of names for LDS temple work. What impact will this decision have on LDS
- [The Fallout Story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-fallout-story/) - The Fallout Story is a rule of etiquette (that I made up) that I hold sacred for discussing breakups. The rule is: the dumpee owns the fallout story. The dumper is prohibited from making any disparaging remarks (henceforth and forever) about the dumpee, as a matter of courtesy. As a friend put it: "She keeps
- [Thorns in the Side: Villains in the Mormon Mind, Part I](https://www.mormonmatters.org/thorns-in-the-side-villains-and-the-mormon-mind-part-i/) - Everyone loves a good villain...the bellowing laugh with hands thrown up in the air utter triumph. As a child, I found Dr. Claw of Inspector Gadget fame to be wildly amusing. The Joker has quickly reached pop-culture stardom as people would practice their Joker impressions of "Why So Serious?" Good cartoonish villainy makes for good
- [This Won't Make It Past Correlation!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/this-wont-make-it-past-correlation-5/) - Who wrote this, and why wouldn't the Correlation Committee allow it to be published today? Every teacher is obligated by his responsibility to others to become a scholar in the gospel. He must obtain a sound and full understanding of the theology of the Church. He must not give erroneous beliefs to his students or
- [There’s probably no god. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/there’s-probably-no-god-now-stop-worrying-and-enjoy-your-life/) - here Every year I go back to the states to see my family and am surprised how many friends I know have left the church. I’m sure a disproportionately high amount compared to most of you. So if you're superstitious and still want to be active in the church it's probably not a good idea
- [5 Cool Things About the Community of Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/5-cool-things-about-the-community-of-christ/) - This post is another installment in my “5 Cool Things” series. Today I’m giving a list, again in no particular order, of some things I think are really cool about our prairie cousins, the Community of Christ (formerly RLDS Church). Just in case some readers don't know, the Community of Christ is not one of
- [MormonStories: Thank you John Dehlin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/mormonstories-thank-you-john-dehlin/) - http://www.mormonstories.org/ MormonStories, the site that hosted dozens of audio and video podcast interviews, was retired this weekend. John Dehlin announced he is taking the opportunity to focus his energizes on his family and pursue new opportunities in life. It sounds like it was a complex and difficult decision for him. Many people involved in Mormonism
- [Righteous Gentiles Part II](https://www.mormonmatters.org/blessed-gentiles-part-ii/) - So methinks that we have a few clairvoyants on-board. That said, behold the top four "Righteous Gentiles." A few caveats... A) No, C.S. Lewis fans...he did not make the list and for good reasons--primarily because his spot is being reserved a future, top-10 list that Arthur and I will co-arthur, I mean, author (*drum riff
- [Common Scriptures in Review: John 15:13 (Laying Down His Life)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/common-scriptures-in-review-john-1513-laying-down-his-life/) - John 15:13 is quoted often throughout Christianity as the great example of Jesus' willingness to die for his disciples and all who would accept him as their Lord and Savior, but I believe this singular perspective robs that verse of much of its power and actual message. I think there is a huge difference between
- [President looks at church history with fresh eyes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/president-looks-at-church-history-with-fresh-eyes/) - While I was much more than casually aware of church history previously, since becoming president of the church I have engaged in an extensive study of our story. I have explored books and articles from a wide spectrum of scholars, authors, and publishers, ranging from the faithful to the skeptical and in between. Truth has
- [The Mormon Trinity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-trinity/) - A few months ago, Bruce hosted a discussion about the word and concept of the Trinity. It seems that most Mormons associate the idea of Trinity with false doctrine, and substitute any reference to it with the term "Godhead." I have been in many Sunday school and quorum lessons in which the nature of God
- [Strange LDS Missionary Clothing Ritual: Is It Eco-Friendly?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/strange-lds-missionary-clothing-ritual-is-it-eco-friendly/) - by Guest Poster Dr. B. Last Sunday in church I spoke with four missionaries who told me of a strange ritual that used to be practiced in their mission. One missionary assured me that he had personally been involved in this questionable practice. When I was a missionary we really didn't have any missionaries that
- [This Won't Get Past Correlation!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/this-wont-get-past-correlation/) - Here is a quote from a dusty, forgotten, once-official Church manual. Who said this and why wouldn't this get past the brethren and sistren at Correlation?: Inequality of inheritance and opportunity among the children of men leads many people to question the Creator's impartiality and justice, and, therefore, his very existence...Suffice it to say here
- [Something the Southern Baptist Convention Can Learn from the Mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-mormon-church-a-good-model-of-how-to-report-membership-numbers/) - The following article highlights something that the Mormon Church has been criticized by some for doing for years, but it is the Southern Baptist Convention (often the most vocal criticizers of Mormonism) that is doing it in this case. SBC Membership Reporting Controversy A second article, linked in the above article, provides very disturbing numbers
- [This Won't Make It Past Correlation!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/this-wont-make-it-past-correlation-3/) - Our quote this week is from another church manual predating Correlation. Who wrote this, and why would the Correlation Committee disapprove?: Just what is the function and role of religion in one's life? Let us suggest an experiment. Take a piece of paper, divide it into two columns, place a plus sign above one and
- [The Cross, Part 1: Taking up Your Cross](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-cross-part-1-taking-up-your-cross/) - In this series of posts on The Cross (not sure how many yet), I will try to examine this Christian symbol from a few different angles. In Part 1, I will look at the scriptures that deal with "Taking up your cross." "And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not
- [God is a Star Trek Fan: The Kobayashi Maru = Plan of Salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/god-is-a-star-trek-fan-the-kobayashi-maru/) - In the Star Trek II movie “The Wrath of Khan,” the opening scene is a failed military engagement in the Klingon neutral zone. The Federation ship is destroyed and the crew dies. Not only that, it will likely spark a war between two empires. The audience doesn’t know until the end of the scene that
- [Five difficult words to contemplate](https://www.mormonmatters.org/five-difficult-words-to-contemplate/) - What if it isn't true? … [pause for a silent moment to let this reach the heart and mind] … What if the Church really isn't true? If you could somehow know for sure that it was all a mistake, a misunderstanding or delusion, and that God doesn't exist, what would that mean? Would you
- [The Universal Holy Ghost](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-universal-holy-ghost/) - What is the Gift of the Holy Ghost? We have a lesson or two about this each year in our Church classes. People have lots of great ideas, but I sometimes feel it doesn’t quite pin down what I observe when I look around me in life. I’m not saying our Mormon answer is wrong,
- [Merging with God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/merging-with-god/) - We talk all the time in our Church about returning to God some day. Everything we do in life is to gain experiences, and then to return. If we are pure and righteous, we can live with Him once more. What does this mean though? I think a lot of people picture us going from
- [FacesEast, an Interview with Prairie Chuck](https://www.mormonmatters.org/spotlight-on-faceseast-and-interview-with-prairie-chuck/) - This article is an interview with a woman who goes by the online alias “Prairie Chuck.” Prairie Chuck is the leader of a support group called FacesEast.org. This post is a lot longer than my usual ones, but it was a great conversation we had together. I want to take some space here at MormonMatters
- [Are Sacrament Meeting Talks Rehashes of General Conference Talks Where You Live?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/are-sacrament-meeting-talks-rehashes-of-general-conference-talks-where-you-live/) - In my ward in a very LDS-heavy area of Arizona, I've been noticing a pattern in the sacrament meeting talks. I'm not sure how far back it has been going, but at least for this year every talk has been based on a talk from a General Authority at the most recent General Conference. Some
- [Psalms  55:22 - Cast Thy Burden Upon the Lord](https://www.mormonmatters.org/psalms-5522-cast-thy-burden-upon-the-lord/) - I had an interesting insight during a prayer a few months ago. In all my years as a member of the Church - in all the countless meetings I have attended and all the countless times I have read the scriptures - and in all my pondering over the years, I have not had the
- [The Envelope and the Message](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-envelope-and-the-message/) - Are you ever nervous about turning your friends over to the missionaries? Do you fear you may be subjecting them to a high-pressure time-share sales presentation? Let's assume this reluctance has nothing to do with how you feel about "the message" itself. You love the gospel. You have a testimony. Attending church makes you happy and helps you
- [Virtual RS/PH:  Stand Fast Through the Storms of Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/virtual-rsph-stand-fast-through-the-storms-of-life/) - This week's lesson is an interesting compilation of horrifying stories of persecution and suffering from the life of Joseph Smith. Read on if you dare . . . Rather than spend too much time deconstructing this lesson, I will refer the teachers to the write-up done by douglashunter on feastuponthewordblog. I am not going to
- [What part of the Bible do we believe?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/what-part-of-the-bible-do-we-believe/) - January 25th the LDS Newsroom did a press release called ‘Reverence For The Bible’ (see here) which I imagine was to let the world and other Christians know a number of important things: It offers practical solutions and spiritual guidance that inspire us to overcome challenges and trials, its in the center of the Latter-day
- [The Compassionate Ones](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-compassionate-ones/) - Don't run away!! Bear with me for just a moment, because this isn't going to be another of "THOSE" discussions on the topic of Proposition 8. In the course of the past few months, I've had some unexpected insights in connection with the initiative, and I flatter myself enough to think they just might be useful. No matter
- [Righteous Gentiles Part 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-blessed-gentiles-part-1/) - So, in honor of the broad-mindedness that is Mormon Matters, I would like to suggest a list of the top ten “Righteous Gentiles.” In orthodox Judaism, these are known as gerim toshavim, “resident aliens.” These are Gentiles who either formally or informally have associated themselves with the people of the Jews by agreeing to abide
- [The Book of Mormon's Doctrine of Deity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/the-book-of-mormons-doctrine-of-deity/) - I am fascinated by the Book of Mormon's teachings (i.e. doctrines) about deity. I am almost equally fascinated with the many scholarly attempts to force fit it into pre-existing categories to make it seem safe. [1] There is a danger in trying to force fit the Book of Mormon into a pre-existing theological doctrine of
- [Interview with Mark Hansen](https://www.mormonmatters.org/interview-with-mark-hansen/) - As the LDS church continues to grow, the art that its members create continue to fill new and different niches. Most of us are familiar with LDS music, the kind of music you'd see at Deseret Book, etc., and praise-type music like the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. I've focused quite a bit on members of the
- [5 Cool Things I Wish the LDS Church Were Doing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/5-cool-things-i-wish-the-lds-church-were-doing/) - This post is another installment in my "5 Cool Things" series. Today I'm giving a list, again in no particular order, of some things I would love to see happen in the LDS Church (which I attend actively). I'm not presenting this list as a set of demands or to declare what is wrong with
- [Article of Faith 12: Obey the Government.  Always?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/article-of-faith-12-obey-the-government-always/) - Article of Faith 12: “We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.” “Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe in obeying the laws of the country in which they live. Members of the Church are counseled to be good citizens, to
- [Joseph Smith & the Parable of the Money Digger](https://www.mormonmatters.org/joseph-smith-the-parable-of-the-money-digger/) - Joseph Smith was a money digger, like others in rural upstate New York (and unsuccessful like pretty much all of them were). Obviously, there wasn't a lot on TV back then. Was his money-digging activity a parable to teach him (and all of us) how to find the real treasures of the gospel? Jesus frequently
- [This Won't Make It Past Correlation!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/this-wont-make-it-past-correlation-2/) - Another week, another great uncorrelated quote from an LDS Church manual that would never see the light of day in today's church: Every discussion of faith must distinguish it from its caricatures. Faith is not credulity. It is not "believing things you know ain't so." It is not a formula to get the universe to
- [Adventures with the Bible Dictionary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/adventures-with-the-bible-dictionary/) - The LDS Bible Dictionary has its roots in a "freebie" from the publisher. Many of the entries are almost as old as the LDS Church. While the "new" scriptures updated the dictionary so that the doctrine is closer to ours, it is still filled with survivors. For example, Baal rides the heavens, has two hammers

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- [Classic Mormon Writings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcasts/classic-mormon-writings/) - “Classic Mormon Writings” features audio recordings of important articles and essays discussed or referred to in Mormon Matters episodes, as well as other classic pieces from independent Mormon discourse that deserve a wider audience through production in an audio format. When possible, these pieces are read by the author. If you have a favorite article
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## Portfolio

- [159–163: An Easter Primer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/159-163-an-easter-primer/) - One of Mormon Matters podcast's most popular episodes explored Christmas through a close examination of scriptural narratives and traditions related to the Nativity as they unfolded through the centuries of Christian history. One of the reasons for this episode’s popularity was the information it provided for Latter-day Saints about many aspects of Christmas celebrated and
- [541–543: A Celebration of Dan Wotherspoon and Mormon Matters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/541-543-a-celebration-of-dan-wotherspoon-and-mormon-matters/) - This three-part episode consists of a recording of a live event held Sunday evening, March 24, 2019 in Salt Lake City. It is an interview of Mormon Matters' longtime host, Dan Wotherspoon, about his eight years helming this podcast, and to formally announce his stepping down from the show, as well as alerting all who
- [540: Millennial Mormons—Beliefs, Practices, and Authority Structures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/540-millennial-mormons-beliefs-practices-and-authority-structures/) - In the brilliant and fascinating new book, The Next Mormons: How Millennials Are Changing the LDS Church, Jana Riess, with collaboration from Benjamin Knoll shares results from a huge, representative, survey they designed and administered that compares Millennial Mormons with two other generations—Boomers/Silent Generation and Generation X in ten major areas. In this episode, Mormon
- [539: Moving Beyond Toxic “Outrage”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/539-moving-beyond-toxic-outrage/) - This episode was conceived as a supplement to the previous one, the two-parter 537–538: Being "Good and Mad" within Mormonism, featuring Kristine Haglund. It certainly serves well as that but ended up being more of a full episode than originally envisioned. In particular, the topic is the potent emotion of “outrage” and it’s very strong
- [537–538: Being "Good and Mad" within Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/537-538-being-good-and-mad-within-mormonism/) - In this two-part episode, a conversation between Kristine Haglund and host Dan Wotherspoon, Kristine shares insights and distillations from various sources and her own thinking about "anger" and ways to understand and better utilize its energy, especially within Mormonism. In her presentation, she picks up the term, "Good and Mad" from Rebecca Traister's recent book,
- [536: God, Evil, Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/536-god-evil-faith/) - The classic theological puzzle known as the “problem of evil” arises when we assert the existence of an all-powerful God who is also perfectly loving, while also asserting the presence of genuine evil in the world. As David Hume puts the case: “Either God would remove evil out of this world, and cannot; or He
- [534–535: “The Covenant Path”: Reflections and Extensions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/534-535-the-covenant-path-reflections-and-extensions/) - No term to date has been more associated with the leadership tenure of President Russell M. Nelson than “Covenant Path.” It’s become ubiquitous in his and many other church leader messages, and it now also rolls easily off the tongues in LDS stakes, wards, and other conversations. It’s an intriguing term, yet to date, it
- [532–533: What Is the “Good News” Jesus Taught?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/532-what-is-the-good-news-jesus-taught-part-1/) - As they begin to experience shifts of faith, many Latter-day Saints and others within the Christian tradition come to think of Jesus Christ differently than what they did when they were younger, and for most who undergo these shifts, the transition from one understanding to another is fraught with a great deal of angst. It
- [531: Talking New Testament Translation and Its Ramifications with Thomas Wayment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/531-talking-new-testament-translation-and-its-ramifications-with-thomas-wayment/) - As Latter-day Saints begin to dig into the New Testament as part of this year's scripture study, a terrific new resource, a translation from the Greek with wonderful notes, has arrived on the scene. The New Testament: A Translation for Latter-day Saints (A Study Bible) by Thomas A. Wayment, published by the Religious Studies Center
- [530: Impressions and Reflections on Changes to LDS Temple Ceremonies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/530-impressions-and-reflections-on-changes-to-lds-temple-ceremonies/) - This is a quick turnaround podcast episode that was both recorded and released on the day after LDS temples around the world implemented and offered to patrons a new version of endowment ceremony, as well as changes to the scripts of both sealings and women's initiatory ordinances. We do not go into great specific detail
- [529: A Mystical Approach to the Christmas Story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/529-a-mystical-approach-to-the-christmas-story/) - This episode suggests layers of depth to the Christian Nativity story and the insights it has for our own individual spiritual paths. It features meditation teacher and yogi Phil McLemore in conversation with Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon about how many of the elements in the birth of Christ narrative can serve as models and
- [527–528: (Encore) A Christmas Primer: Exploring the Nativity in Scripture, Legend, History, and Hearts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/527-528-encore-a-christmas-primer-exploring-the-nativity-in-scripture-legend-history-and-hearts/) - This is an encore presentation of a December 2011 two-part Mormon Matters podcast episode examining the Christmas story as it traditionally gets told—looking closely at what the scriptures actually say and do not say about the birth of Jesus and all the pieces of this familiar story. For instance, how do the Matthew and Luke
- [526: Reigniting My Christmas Fire](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/526-reigniting-my-christmas-fire/) - In this episode, Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon shares his experiences with the Christmas Nativity stories presented in the New Testament, moving from literal belief, on through many years of confusion, and to an eventual re-embrace of them even if parts (or all) of what is depicted therein are not historical. He traces the role
- [525: "Table Manners": In What Manner Ought We Engage with Others this Holiday Season?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/525-table-manners-in-what-manner-ought-we-engage-with-others-this-holiday-season/) - This episode, "Table Manners" is a short reflection by Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon about ways we might interact with others during this season of feasts and other gatherings. "What manner of persons ought we to be? Even as They are" (3 Nephi 27:27, pronouns universalized). Happy Thanksgiving! Merry Christmas! May all your holidays (holy-days)
- [521–524: The Enneagram for Mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/521-524-the-enneagram-for-mormons/) - The Enneagram is a powerful tool for coming to know ourselves and others. Emerging in the mid-twentieth century and refined during the ensuing years, interest in it as a tool for aiding in one's spiritual growth, understanding ourselves and others, helping to build workplace and other kinds of teams that work well together, and shedding
- [519–520: (Encore) The Living Nature of Mormon Covenants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/519-520-encore-the-living-nature-of-mormon-covenants/) - This is an encore presentation of an important and still very relevant two-part episode first released on 24 April 2017. Covenanting is a huge feature of Mormon theology and group life. Beginning at age eight with baptism, and extending through the LDS temple endowment and sealing rites, Latter-day Saints are encouraged to make many covenants
- [518: Looking at Joseph Smith through Fresh Eyes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/518-looking-at-joseph-smith-through-fresh-eyes/) - This episode features two wonderful and creative thinkers and religious souls whose lives have been deeply influenced by Joseph Smith. But here is the kicker: neither are Latter-day Saints. Jane Barnes and Rob Lauer view Joseph through eyes we don't often (if ever) encounter within institutional Mormonism. Perhaps very few outside some who knew him
- [516–517: Becoming Powerful: Dr. LaShawn Williams on Her Faith Journey and Path to Spiritual Confidence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/516-517-becoming-powerful-dr-lashawn-williams-on-her-faith-journey-and-path-to-spiritual-confidence/) - TW: Brief mentions of sexual assault in this conversation Dr. LaShawn Williams (EdD., LCSW, MPA) is on the faculty at Utah Valley University, where she teaches students studying social work. LaShawn was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and faced many challenges associated with being a black child and then black
- [514 –515: Thoughts on the October 2018 General Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/514-515-thoughts-on-the-october-2108-general-conference/) - The October 2018 General Conference has just ended, but certainly not the discussion of it! Not for many, many months in our wards, stakes, and various gatherings of Mormons, and not here on Mormon Matters podcast (though we promise it won't be for "months and months")! It was a fascinating conference with quite a few
- [512–513: Wrestling with the Obedience vs Conscience Dilemma](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/512-513-wrestling-with-the-obedience-vs-conscience-dilemma/) - We've all heard statements such as, "Obedience is the first law of heaven." We've also been charged to seek our own light and revelation on any teaching or directive presented before the whole church. What happens when the second challenges the first? If we in good "conscience" (what many Latter-day Saints call the Light of
- [510 – 511: Upcoming General Conference--Rumors, Hopes, Worries, and Preparing Ourselves for Whatever Unfolds](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/510-511-511-upcoming-general-conference-rumors-hopes-worries-and-preparing-ourselves-for-whatever-unfolds/) - In just over a week after the release of this podcast episode, millions of Latter-day Saints from around the world will gather in person or other ways to hear messages from Mormonism's highest leadership councils. No one knows in advance what messages will be presented, what each male of female leader will have been inspired
- [508–509: The LDS Church's New Official History Volume, Saints: The Standard of Truth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/508-509-the-lds-churchs-new-official-history-volume-saints-the-standard-of-truth/) - Just two weeks ago, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released the first volume of its long-awaited history of the church series, Saints: The Standard of Truth. Written as an engaging narrative, this book covers events in church history beginning in 1815 and concluding in 1846 as the Saints were forced out of
- [506 –507: What Do Latter-day Saints Consider Authoritative?: Wrestling with Scripture, Prophetic Utterance, Personal Conscience, and an Expanding and Changing Canon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/506-507-what-do-latter-day-saints-consider-authoritative-wrestling-with-scripture-prophetic-utterance-personal-conscience-and-an-expanding-and-changing-canon/) - At this moment, with the 2018 October General Conference just weeks away, many Latter-day Saints are—consciously and unconsciously—going through in their minds and hearts how they view and feel about teachings from the church's top leaders. What is their authoritative status? Are they to be considered on par with (or even superior and more authoritative
- [505: The Heart and Depth of Father Tom Roberts: How the Things He Sees, Studies, and Shares Might Prove a Great Boon for Many Latter-day Saints](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/505-the-heart-and-depth-of-father-tom-roberts-how-the-things-he-sees-studies-and-shares-might-prove-a-great-boon-for-many-latter-day-saints/) - No one who has appeared on Mormon Matters has a more interesting, diverse, and ecumenical religious journey than Father Tom Roberts—one that also includes Mormonism from his very early years on through today. Father Tom has been on the show several times in the past, but in this episode we query in greater depth than previously
- [502: The New Push to Use the Church's Official Name: An "Impression" Becomes an "Official Statement"— But What about "Implementation"?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/502-the-new-push-to-use-the-churchs-official-name-an-impression-becomes-an-official-statement-but-what-about-implementation/) - On 16 August 2018, the Newsroom website for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released an official statement that set off a significant discussion that, by all indications including additional commentary on the Newsroom site that came later, will be ongoing for quite a while. The statement begins with the following words from
- [503–504: Reflecting on Major Themes in 500-plus Mormon Matters Episodes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/503-504-reflecting-on-major-themes-in-500-plus-mormon-matters-episodes/) - Earlier this month, Mormon Matters released its 500th episode. In this two-part podcast, host Dan Wotherspoon speaks about the show's evolution, but mostly he re-introduces some of the major themes and angles of approach to Mormonism and personal faith journeys--ideas, analogies, and framings that have come up fairly regularly in the show's history, either directly
- [498: Mormon Difference Makers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/498-mormon-difference-makers-celebrating-lisa-scott-and-richard-ostler/) - This episode arrives on the heels of the release of a marvelous short video, “Do Better, which features LGBT+ Latter-day Saints and allies sharing reflections and experiences from their Mormon upbringing and interactions with its culture. The video originated in the mind of heart of Lisa Scott, who, with assistance from a network of friends
- [501: Centering in God: Experiences and Insights from the Living School for Action and Contemplation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/501-centering-in-god-experiences-and-insights-from-the-living-school-for-action-and-contemplation/) - This episode features reflections on a wonderful experience the two panelists and I shared this past week in Albuquerque, NM. All three of us—Jana Spangler, JoDee Baird, and I, Dan Wotherspoon—attended the August 2018 symposium of The Living School, which is sponsored and operated by the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) that Richard Rohr,
- [500: Making It Safe Again for Open Proselytizing: Charles Randall Paul and His Very Practical Conflict Engagement Theories](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/500-making-it-safe-again-for-open-proselytizing-charles-randall-paul-and-hisvery-practical-conflict-engagement-theories/) - This episode celebrates a new book by Charles Randall Paul, Converting the Saints: A Study of Religious Rivalry in America (Greg Kofford Books), but even more so the ways he thinks about how we should engage all conflicts over ideas and claims for which there are no clear ways of measuring value or correctness. His
- [499: Faith Journeying with Matt Jones — Rambunctious Youth to LDS Bishop and Wise Soul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/499-faith-journeying-with-matt-jones-rambunctious-youth-to-lds-bishop-and-wise-soul/) - Just two weeks ago, Matt Jones was released as an LDS bishop. How he came to be someone who might be called to that position includes a fun and twisting story. Beginning as somewhat of a precocious youth (an "idiot" in Matt's telling about this period, along with examples!), he didn't take Mormonism too seriously.
- [496-497: (Encore) Mormonism As a "Religion"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/496-497-encore-mormonism-as-a-religion/) - This is an encore presentation of a two-part Mormon Matters episode first recorded in March 2015. Of course, we all know that Mormonism is a "religion." But do we always think about it through the lenses of such a big and diverse category? Among those who are born into and/or otherwise live and experience the
- [494–495: “What Do We Do with All This?”: Sunstone and Today’s Uncorrelated Mormon Discussions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/494-495-what-do-we-do-with-all-this-sunstone-and-todays-uncorrelated-mormon-discussions/) - Most Mormon Matters listeners are, as consumers of LDS-related websites, blogs, podcasts, Reddits, Facebook groups, and other social media platforms, enmeshed in the world of “uncorrelated Mormonism.” Whatever is happening in any part of the Mormon world, most of us have ready access, not only to the news but also a great number of comments—many
- [492–493: Women's Ordination and Congregational Leadership: Exploring New Research](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/492-493-womens-ordination-and-congregational-leadership-exploring-new-research/) - On July 2nd, a terrific new book was released by Oxford University Press: She Preached the Word: Women's Ordination in Modern America. Co-authored by Benjamin R. Knoll and Cammie Jo Bolin, it shares and analyzes the findings from new surveys, along with qualitative interviews, about how people in the U.S. and within specific congregations and traditions
- [Matters of Perspective 2: The Sacred Secret Open to All: Ye Are Gods](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/matters-of-perspective-2-the-sacred-secret-open-to-all-ye-are-gods/) - In this second episode of the “Matters of Perspective” series, Charles Randall Paul reads his May 2009 Sunstone article, “The Sacred Secret Open to All: Ye Are Gods,” a wonderful exploration about the concerns many people have with the secrecy related to Mormon temples and how Latter-day Saints might do a better job communicating about
- [491: Mormonism and Depression, Suicide, and Medication: A Larger Context](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/491-mormonism-and-depression-suicide-and-medication-a-larger-context/) - In recent years, Mormonism has been doing much better when talking about depression and mental health struggles, helping destigmatize them and encouraging its members to seek assistance. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland's October 2013 General Conference address, "Like a Broken Vessel" spoke candidly about these topics, and the church's mental health section at LDS.org/mentalhealth is likewise
- [488–490: Resurrecting Atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/488-490-resurrecting-atonement/) - The concept of "atonement" is powerful: being "at one" with God, others, and ourselves. But the panelists on this episode, Mark Crego and George Andrew Spriggs, along with Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon, find the way it is usually talked about in Mormon and wider Christian circles to leave something to be desired. Too often
- [487: Exclusivism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/487-exclusivism/) - This episode wrestles with exclusivist claims in religion, including Mormonism, as well as in our psyches. How does the idea of chosenness, specialness, uniqueness, and being “right” or on the “true” path work in our minds and hearts in both positive and negative ways? Why do we want to cling to ideas that work to
- [485–486: An Open-Hearted Wrestle with Temples, Tithing, and Other Church and Personal Priorities](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/485-486-an-open-hearted-wrestle-with-temples-tithing-and-other-church-and-personal-priorities/) - Every time a new temple is announced, especially when it is to be built in the developing world, it's not very long before discussions begin to arise about the priority the LDS Church puts on building temples. Soon after that, some will begin to ask about these (expensive) buildings and if that money used to
- [484: Robert Kirby: Mormonism's Lampoonist Extraordinaire](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/484-robert-kirby-mormonisms-lampoonist-extraordinaire/) - Were there an official calling within Mormonism of "Church and Culture Lampoonist" (and there should be!), Robert Kirby would be magnifying the heck out of it! For better than thirty years, including the past twenty-one as a columnist at the Salt Lake Tribune, he has held up an affectionate but also serious mirror (and shock
- [483: The Prayer Wheel: "An Early Christian Handheld Device"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/483-the-prayer-wheel-an-early-christian-handheld-device/) - At Mormon Matters we will occasionally focus on the importance of sticking with (though often with changed forms) spiritual practices even while in the midst of shifting faith. Even when we might not be sure what we believe anymore, putting ourselves in some way in a position to stay connected with God (whoever or whatever
- [481–482: Mental and Spiritual Gymnastics: Might Something Deeper Be Going On?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/481-482-mental-and-spiritual-gymnastics-might-something-deeper-be-going-on/) - We all have different temperaments, and there are many combinations of elements that affect our spiritual journeys—including how recently we’ve entered into a time of questioning our original assumptions about life, church, and our souls. Because of this diversity, a fairly common theme that arises in Mormon discussions is how it seems to some as
- [479–480: (Encore) Mormon Views on Satan and the Origins of Evil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/479-480-encore-mormon-views-on-satan-and-the-origins-of-evil/) - Most religions, cultures, and philosophies contain stories or theories about human evil and its origins. Some, including Mormonism, place a major portion of the blame for moral evil on a fallen angel, Lucifer, and his followers, who after being ousted from heaven become devils whose only desire is to thwart God’s plans and make loathsome
- [477–478: Improving the Way Mormons Discuss Anger](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/477-478-improving-the-way-mormons-discuss-anger/) - This episode begins with a description of occasions in which one of our guests expresses feelings of anger over something only to be told one of two things (or both): (1) Be careful, as Satan is behind contention and will use your anger to lead you astray; and (2) We should only focus on positive
- [476: A Healer's Healing Journey: An Interview with Dr. Julie de Azevedo Hanks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/476-a-healers-healing-journey-an-interview-with-dr-julie-de-azevedo-hanks/) - Dr. Julie de Azevedo Hanks has over the past decade-plus become a leading voice in mental health, marriage and family, women's issues, and faith journey circles. As a therapist and clinician, she has worked with many people, most of them Latter-day Saints, and now supervises some fifteen other therapists. She is an author of two
- [475: "Revelation" and "The Will of the Lord": Changing Rhetoric and Its Effects in Today's Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/475-revelation-and-the-will-of-the-lord-changing-rhetoric-and-its-effects-in-todays-mormonism/) - The April 2018 General Conference confirmed a trend that some have noticed in recent years that, as they speak about various policies, practices, and teachings, Church leaders have been using the terms "revelation" and "the will of the Lord" more often than they had in the past century or more. Why might that be? Are
- [473–474: First Reactions to the April 2018 General Conference and Its Big Announcements](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/473-474-first-reactions-to-the-april-2018-general-conference-and-its-big-announcements/) - The April 2018 General Conference just closed. It was a monumental one, with many interesting features and announcements. From the Solemn Assembly that it led off with in which all church members, quorum by quorum and group by group had the chance to sustain Russell M. Nelson as the new prophet (and including a wonderful
- [470: Mormon Matters Events and Holy Week Resources](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/470-highlighting-items-related-to-holy-week-and-announcements-of-upcoming-mormon-matters-events/) - This very short episode features several announcements about an upcoming Mormon Matters one-day workshop that Dan Wotherspoon and Jana Spangler will be leading, as well as gives dates and information about the two MM retreats planned for later this year. It also contains a reminder about the Parenting workshop in two weeks in Salt Lake
- [471–472: Reflections on the Recently Revealed MTC Sexual Abuse Cases](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/471-472-reflections-on-the-recently-revealed-mtc-sexual-abuse-cases/) - Within the past ten days, Mormonism has been rocked by a recoding and transcript released through MormonLeaks that depicts the confessions of a former president of the Missionary Training Center in Provo, Utah—Joseph Bishop—about his improper sexual behavior with at least two sister missionaries, including the one who in an interview with Bishop confronted him
- [469: Human Development and Parenting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/469-human-development-and-parenting/) - Understanding human development—its tremendous scope, typical progressions, and reasons for its slowdowns or ways various forms of harm can hinder our growth—­­has many benefits. Because we focus so much on faith development here on Mormon Matters, one area that we don’t often discuss is how insights from developmental research and hands-on work with families can
- [467–468: The Work of Peace in Mormonism and the Religious World: An Interview with Charles Randall Paul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/467-468-the-work-of-peace-in-mormonism-and-the-religious-world-an-interview-with-charles-randall-paul/) - Many long-time Mormon Matters listeners will recognize the name Charles Randall Paul, (or, as host Dan Wotherspoon calls him 90 percent of the time, “Randy" Paul). He has been a wonderful and engaged panelist on various episodes that have explored topics in which he is fluent, but most often references to him and his thinking are more
- [465 –466: Deeper Readings of Misunderstood and Under-Appreciated Scriptures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/465-466-deeper-readings-of-misunderstood-and-under-appreciated-scriptures/) - Very few of us give deep consideration to the nature of scripture and how it should be read and understood. We grow up (or come to it during a conversion process) primarily with the idea that these are sacred texts that are inspired in a different way than any other writings, that God has gotten
- [464: Protecting Ourselves and Loved Ones in Ecclesiastical Situations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/464-protecting-ourselves-and-loved-ones-in-ecclesiastical-situations/) - Issues surrounding sexual, physical, and emotional harassment and abuse, or of persons not feeling safe in certain institutional environments, have received fresh attention in the past several months because of the bravery of women and others sharing their stories, leading to protests and the rise of several movements designed to educate about and mitigate future
- [462–463: Lessons From the Historical Jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/462-463-lessons-from-the-historical-jesus/) - James and Judith McConkie have taken a deep dive into something relatively few Mormon scholars and teachers have researched: the historical Jesus. Latter-day Saints have been doing scripture studies for years, and are in the past few decades beginning to contribute their own studies to the growing body of work on the Bible, but only
- [449–461: (Encore Releases) The Old Testament—Teaching and Study Resources](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/449-461-encore-releases-the-old-testament-teaching-and-study-resources/) - Links to the remaining episodes below _________ These episodes are encore releases of seven different Mormon Matters podcast shows from the last time the LDS Sunday School Gospel Doctrine curriculum covered the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible. We're late in putting these in front of you again. So sorry, but better late than never? I hope you'll
- [446–447: What Does it Mean to "Sustain" Our Leaders and Fellow Church Members?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/446-447-what-does-it-mean-to-sustain-our-leaders-and-fellow-church-members/) - One of Mormonism's most attractive features is the wonderful chance all members are given to both formally and informally "sustain" each other as we play various roles within the community. We officially (and for church records) sustain by the raise of our hand various persons in their callings, but more importantly in that way also
- [448: Shadow Practice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/448-shadow-practice/) - This episode is a supplement to the previous two-parter on "sustaining" within Mormonism—which concentrated especially on times when we find ourselves in some sort of tension with leaders or those in callings whose ideas, teaching style, demeanor, or general approach to the gospel fail to connect positively with us. It features the powerful spiritual teacher Thomas
- [444–445: A New LDS First Presidency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/444-445-a-new-lds-first-presidency/) - On 14 January 2018, twelve days after the passing of Thomas S. Monson, the long-serving prophet-president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the remaining members of the church's highest quorums met together to set apart a new prophet-president, Russell M. Nelson, and to reorganize the First Presidency. In a move that surprised
- [Episode 1: An Introduction, PBS's "The Mormons", and an Ensign Article](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/episode-1-an-introduction-pbss-the-mormons-and-an-ensign-article/) - Panelists: Julianne Hatton, J. Nelson-Seawright, Ann Porter, John Hamer, and John Dehlin (Moderator) Topics: An introduction to Mormon Matters, PBS's "The Mormons", and an Ensign Article entitled: A Firm Foundation in a Shaky World. Also, a big thanks to Skye Pixton for providing the music for this episode. I hope you enjoy!
- [398–399: Staying Actively Engaged in Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/398-399-staying-actively-engaged-in-mormonism/) - This two-part episode is a co-release with the Mormon Stories Podcast. It is a discussion that took place on 29 June 2017 in front of a live internet audience featuring John and Margi Dehlin interviewing (and conveying audience comments and questions for) Jeralee Renshaw, Mark Crego, and Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon. Jeralee, Mark, and
- [412: Announcing the October 2017 Mormon Matters Retreat](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/412-announcing-the-october-2017-mormon-matters-retreat/) - This short episode, a conversation between Natasha Helfer Parker and Dan Wotherspoon, offers descriptions and registration details about the upcoming Mormon Matters Retreat, to be held in Salt Lake City October 13th–15th. You can also find more information here. __________ Retreat basics: Schedule: Friday (13th): 6 to 10 pm Saturday (14th): 9 am to 9
- [251-252: Mormonism's Apostasy Narrative](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/251-252-mormonisms-apostasy-narrative/) - No story differentiates Mormonism from other Christian traditions more than its claim to be the restoration of the church Jesus Christ set up while on the earth—an organization led by twelve apostles who were granted priesthood and authority to continue Christ’s saving work after he died. This framing narrative of an original church organization with
- [308–309: Making Sense of the Research on Homosexuality—Parts 1 & 2: Biological Factors](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/308-309-making-sense-of-the-research-on-homosexuality-parts-1-2-biological-factors/) - With the renewed conversation in Mormonism about homosexuality initiated by the November 6th policy changes, it has become clear that many Latter-day Saints have never really been exposed to the breadth of research conducted in the past several decades about the biological and social factors involved in human sexual development, attraction, and identity, including homosexual
- [379–380: Effective Teaching in the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/379-380-effective-teaching-in-the-church/) - Mormonism provides numerous opportunities for us to teach each other. But, as we know, many times our Sunday classes fall short of being wonderful, too often failing to convey new or important insights, and hardly ever yielding transformative classroom experiences. How can we change this? How can we as teachers or class members move us
- [327–328: Explorations in Depth—The Two Lost Sons and Growing in God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/327-328-explorations-in-depththe-two-lost-sons-and-growing-in-god/) - This episode departs from the typical Mormon Matters pattern in that it features a conversation with just one guest rather than a panel. But what a guest! Philip McLemore is a former CES instructor who then served for twenty-one years as an LDS chaplain in the Air Force and then another eight years as a
- [149–150: Near-Death Experiences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/149-150-near-death-experiences/) - Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) fascinate. Most share similar features that suggest the existence of a spirit or consciousness separate from the body that can continue to exist after the body and brain have ceased functioning in ways generally thought to be necessary for "life." Those who have experienced a NDE also often undergo changes in worldview
- [110: Abuse and the Forgiveness Dilemma](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/110-abuse-and-the-forgiveness-dilemma/) - The April 2012 General Conference featured a terrific talk by President Uchtdorf, "The Merciful Obtain Mercy," that reinforces the importance of being forgiving and non-judgmental. He "bottom lines" his message with the following statement: "This topic of judging others could actually be taught in a two-word sermon. When it comes to hating, gossiping, ignoring, ridiculing,
- [227: "Living" Stories](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/227-living-stories/) - In this episode, philosopher-theologian Adam Miller and narrative studies specialist Stephen Carter join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon to explore the many and varied ways we live within, think from, are shaped by, and are both aided and hindered by "stories." The depth at which our lives are impacted by narratives—about what the world is
- [119–121: The Problem of Evil and Suffering](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/119-121-the-problem-of-evil-and-suffering/) - One of the most prominent and difficult issues in philosophy of religion addresses the dilemma that arises when one asserts the existence of an all-powerful God who is also perfectly loving, while also asserting the presence of genuine evil in the world. As David Hume puts the case: "Either God would remove evil out of
- [69: Patriarchal Blessings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/69-patriarchal-blessings/) - One of Mormonism’s unique features is the patriarchal blessing in which LDS church members--generally mid-teens or older, though there is no official age limit--are given the chance to have hands laid upon their heads by an experienced and humble priesthood leader who has been set apart as a "patriarch" and to receive from him words
- [62: A Christmas Primer: Exploring the Nativity in Scripture, Legend, History, and Hearts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/62-a-christmas-primer-exploring-the-nativity-in-scripture-legend-history-and-hearts/) - This podcast episode examines the Christmas story as it traditionally gets told—but what do the scriptures actually say and not say about the birth of Christ and all the pieces of this familiar story? How do the Matthew and Luke accounts differ—even irreconcilably? What motives are behind the Gospel writers’ decisions to shape the stories
- [443: Seeking a Good Death: Spiritual Practice and Framings to Help Us Prepare Now for Our Eventual Deaths](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/443-seeking-a-good-death-spiritual-practice-and-framings-to-help-us-prepare-now-for-our-eventual-deaths/) - In this follow-up episode to our early December shows titled "Mormons Encountering Death"(MM 430–432), former hospice chaplain and meditation and contemplation teacher Phil McLemore joins Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon for a deep dive into spiritual practices and insights that can help one prepare (and prepare now!) for our eventual death. Combining discussions of scripture,
- [441–442: Living in (and Growing through) Tension: An Interview with Bill Reel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/441-442-living-in-and-growing-through-tension-an-interview-with-bill-reel/) - Bill Reel is widely known within the Mormon podcast world as a fellow traveler on the road many of us have found ourselves on—often quite reluctantly. At one time, we have thrived within Mormonism. It contributes greatly to our identity, and provides our primary social group. It helps shape our thinking and character in ways
- [438–440: Prayers for the New Year](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/438-440-prayers-for-the-new-year/) - Happy New Year, Mormon Matters listeners! To start 2018, I asked many of my friends if they would consider writing prayers for the new year or share favorite prayers they have gained strength from in the past. More than twenty responded! This three-part episode features them recording these prayers, along with brief introductions of each
- [436–437: New Temple Baptisms Announcements](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/436-437-new-temple-baptisms-announcements/) - On 14 December 2017, a new directive from the First Presidency was released outlining changes to certain things related to youth performing baptisms for the dead in LDS temples, as well as to the annual meeting held to prepare 11-year-old boys to receive the priesthood in the coming calendar year. The changes primarily involve now
- [433–435: Revelation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/433-435-revelation/) - Mormonism hangs its hat, so to speak, on the reality of revelation. It claims that God the Father and Jesus Christ visited a teenage boy in 1820 and made it perfectly clear to him that he should join none of the existing churches and that through him they would restore to the earth lost teachings
- [430–432: Mormons Encountering Death](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/430-432-mormons-encountering-death/) - “People tend to die the way they’ve lived.” So say two of the guests from different segments of this podcast. Both Dr. Samuel Brown, a medical school professor and doctor who specializes in intensive care medicine, and Philip McLemore, a longtime hospice chaplain, have experienced the deaths of many patients and clients, and have been
- [393–394: Does "Certainty" Hinder Living Faith?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/393-394-does-certainty-hinder-living-faith/) - Living faith is a growing faith. It is faith in a living God. It is trust in a trustworthy being (or beings). It is striving to align ourselves with a will conveyed to us by a wise and loving God. In many ways, through a person's experiences with the Divine, living faith can be "certain" about
- [428–429: Restoring a Lost Jesus and Beautiful Vision of God’s Work and Glory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/428-429-restoring-a-lost-jesus-and-beautiful-vision-of-gods-work-and-glory/) - Fiona Givens‘ and Terryl Givens‘ most recent book, The Christ Who Heals: How God Restored the Truth That Saves Us, is remarkable. But it’s not because very many of the ideas they present are unheard of, undiscussed, or absolutely foreign to Latter-day Saints. Instead, the triumph of this book is in its distillation from many ancient and
- [427: (Encore) "Living" Stories](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/427-encore-living-stories/) - This is an encore presentation of a fantastic May 2014 episode by the same name. In it, philosopher-theologian Adam Miller and narrative studies specialist Stephen Carter join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon to explore the many and varied ways we live within, think from, are shaped by, and are both aided and hindered by "stories." The depth at which our lives
- [42: Pros and Cons of Keeping Mormonism "Weird"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/42-pros-and-cons-of-keeping-mormonism-weird/) - Recent decades have seen a decrease in emphases of and public and internal discussions of many of Mormonism’s most distinctive doctrines and practices--especially some that are often thought of as "weird." Has this trend of downplaying Mormon differences from mainline Christian views, as well as many of Mormonism's interesting and unique blend of views about
- [Episode 2: Mitt Romney, Mormonism and Recent Coverage in the New York Times and on Good Morning America](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/episode-2-mitt-romney-mormonism-and-recent-coverage-in-the-new-york-times-and-on-good-morning-america/) - The topic for today is Mitt Romney, Mormonism, and the Recent Coverage in both the New York Times and Good Morning America. We had 3 more EXCELLENT panelists for Mormon Matters podcast. They included: John Fowles: John is a lawyer living in London with his wife and three children. He is interested in Mormonism and
- [Cultural Doctrines: The Unsaid Sermon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/cultural-doctrines-the-unsaid-sermon/) - In 1991, Dr. Robert F. Bohn gave this great talk at the Sunstone Symposium titled "Cultural vs. Gospel Doctrine and the 'Unsaid Sermon Phenomenon'". I recently listened to the recording and found it poignant, practical, helpful, and encouraging. As an illustration of the topic, here's an example: Original quote from a sermon: "When that earthquake
- [21: Sex and Immigration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/21-sex-and-immigration/) - In this re-launching of Mormon Matters podcast, Dan Wotherspoon leads a panel consisting of Joanna Brooks, Heather Olson Beal and John Dehlin, to discuss: Sex Nicole Hardy's NY Times piece entitled: Single, Female, Mormon, Alone The SL Tribune's response, entitled: Sex and the Single Mormon LDS mother re-releases short video on her Prop 8 opposition
- [28: Racism in Honor Code Enforcement for BYU Athletes?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/28-racism-in-honor-code-enforcement-for-byu-athletes/) - On 13 April 2011, Deadspin.com published a fast-trending article, “The Truth about Race, Religion, and the Honor Code at BYU,” that highlights possible racial factors at play in the way BYU enforces its Honor Code among its athletes. The story states: “Since 1993, at least 70 athletes have been suspended, dismissed, put on probation, or
- [22: The Suspension of BYU Basketball Player Brandon Davies and the BYU Honor Code](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/22-the-suspension-byu-basketball-player-of-brandon-davies-and-the-byu-honor-code/) - A spirited and in-depth discussion of the suspension of BYU basketball player Brandon Davies for an Honor Code violation. After reviewing the basic issues at play in the Davies incident, the panel turns its attention to the Honor Code itself. Do the values the Honor Code promotes and the way the code is administered at
- [23: The King James Version and Changes to Race-Related Book of Mormon Chapter Headings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/23-the-church-the-kjv-and-changes-to-race-related-book-of-mormon-chapter-headings/) - In this episode, Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon and panelists Kristine Haglund, Dallas Robbins, and Philip Barlow discuss two topics: The LDS Church's recent reaffirmation of the King James Version as is its official Bible translation and The changes it has made to chapter headings in the online version of the Book of Mormon (changes
- [24: Mitt Romney, Jon Huntsman, Glenn Beck and the 2012 Election](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/24-mitt-romney-jon-huntsman-glenn-beck-and-the-2012-election/) - This episode features a panel discussion of the potential candidacies of Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman as they consider a run for the 2012 GOP presidential nomination. Have American attitudes towards Mormonism shifted significantly since Romney's first campaign was often sidetracked by the "Mormon Question"? Has the Church's involvement with Prop 8 helped or hurt the Mormon
- [25-26: Theologies of Nature - Mormon Resources for Thinking about Natural Disasters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/25-26-theologies-of-nature-mormon-resources-for-thinking-about-natural-disasters/) - This two-part episode uses the recent Japanese earthquakes and tsunamis as a springboard for a robust discussion of nature, and especially natural disasters. Often we hear claims that the upheaval and suffering caused by earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, tornados, famine, and the like are “God’s will,” that God is sending a message through these events.
- [27: Mormons and Their Leaders](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/27-mormons-and-their-matters/) - This episode, which was recorded a couple of days after the close of the April 2011 General Conference, explores the interplay between Latter-day Saints and those who are called to lead them as prophets, seers, and revelators. Why do some church members want to elevate leaders' words delivered at conference almost to the level of
- [29: David Brooks, The Book of Mormon Musical, and Rigorous Religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/29-david-brooks-the-book-of-mormon-musical-and-rigorous-religion/) - New York Times columnist David Brooks very much enjoyed the Broadway musical "The Book of Mormon," but, as he articulates in his 21 April 2011 column "Creed or Chaos," he believes the play's authors end up celebrating a "vague, uplifting, nondoctrinal" type of religion that can't last and doesn't motivate people to perform "heroic acts
- [30: Mormon Women and Equality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/30-mormon-women-and-equality/) - Michael Otterson, head of the LDS Church's Public Affairs department, recently wrote a short piece for the Washington Post's "On Faith" blog titled, "What Mormon Equality Looks Like." In his post, he cites three anonymous LDS women who assert their equality with men in terms of access to pulpits to teach and pray, their chances
- [31: The LDS Church and Its Single Young Adults](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/31-the-lds-church-and-its-single-young-adults/) - Official statistics are hard to come by, but it has become clear over the past several years that Mormonism is seeing many of its 18- to 30-year-olds reduce their participation in the church or leave the faith altogether. Two recent actions confirm this trend and reveal the church’s initial responses in trying to stem the
- [32: Heavenly Mother in Today's Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/32-heavenly-mother-in-todays-mormonism/) - The most recent issue of BYU Studies features the article, “ ‘A Mother There’: A Survey of Historical Teachings about Mother in Heaven,” co-written by David L. Paulsen and Martin Pulido. (Here is a link to the article and also a blog post on it by Joanna Brooks.) The article presents an overview of research
- [33: The LDS Church and Its Single Young Adults, Part 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/33-the-lds-church-and-its-single-young-adults-part-2/) - Episode 31 provided a solid first framing of many of the issues faced by Mormon young single adults—of which group, some 80 percent are becoming inactive at least for a period of time, and many are deciding to leave the church altogether. This episode follows up on that discussion, but focuses on hearing the voices
- [34: Self-Identifying as “Mormon”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/34-self-indentifying-as-mormon/) - Mormonism has always been a home to members with many different religious temperaments, levels of belief, attitudes toward authority, and commitment to and comfort within the community. Still, even with this diversity, Mormonism has often felt to many members (and certainly to most outsiders) as monolithic—if the diversity is there, it hasn’t always been easy
- [35–36: Moving Beyond the "Negro Doctrine"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/35-36-moving-beyond-the-negro-doctrine/) - This month marks the thirty-third anniversary of the 1978 revelation extending the priesthood to “all worthy males” in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Since that day, little has been said by Church leaders on any topic related to the ban, including the reasons for the ban, the doctrinal justifications for the ban,
- [37: Why Are Mormons Seen as "Dangerous" by Some Evangelical Christians?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/37-why-are-mormons-seen-as-dangerous-by-some-evangelical-christians/) - A recent article at the Patheos website by evangelical Christian writer and publisher Warren Cole Smith made a big splash both on that website and in Mormon circles because of Smith’s argument that a Mitt Romney presidency would be "dangerous" for many souls who could lose their salvation if they were led astray by Mormonism’s
- [38: Illegal Immigration and Religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/38-illegal-immigration-and-religion/) - On 10 June 2011, the LDS Church released an official statement on immigration that calls for Latter-day Saints and others to honor families and treat each other, foremost, as children of God while at the same time calling for the federal government to provide strong border security and discouraging its own members from entering any
- [39: Intellectuals and the Mormon Tradition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/39-intellectuals-and-the-mormon-tradition/) - In early June, the Deseret News published a list compiled by Leonard J. Arrington in 1969 of the "most eminent intellectuals in Mormon history." As you can imagine, the feature generated a lot of discussion both on the newspaper’s website, as well as in many corners of the Mormon bloggernacle. Who among those listed still
- [40–41: Ritual within Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/40-41-ritual-within-mormonism/) - In this two-part discussion, Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon and panelists Julia Hunter, Chelsea Strayer, and Chelsea Fife explore insights from myth and ritual studies and the ways these ideas help illuminate aspects of Mormon devotional and cultural experience. Can having a better understanding of ritual structure, how ritual functions in social life, and ritual’s
- [43: Healthy Approaches to Teaching Modesty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/43-healthy-approaches-to-teaching-modesty/) - In today’s LDS youth programs, especially those for young women, modesty has become even more of an emphasis than in years and decades past. Of course modesty is important, but are some of the ways modesty is being taught today more harmful than helpful for youth who are undergoing important transitions in their lives? Is
- [44: A Vital Legacy of Independent Mormon Thought: Dialogue and Sunstone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/44-a-vital-legacy-of-independent-mormon-thought-dialogue-and-sunstone/) - The Sunstone Symposium that begins next week (3 – 6 August) provides an excellent springboard into a discussion of the history and focuses of two of the longest-running and most important entities in independent Mormon thought: Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought and Sunstone (magazine and host of multiple conferences each year). In today’s Internet
- [45: The Mormon Practice of Bearing Testimony](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/45-the-mormon-practice-of-bearing-testimony/) - In this episode, Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon and panelists Brent Beal, Brian Johnston, and Jana Riess explore various aspects of one of Mormonism’s most regular (and sometimes it seems regulated) rituals: the monthly opportunity for church members to bear testimony. The discussion ranges from the nature of the expectation that those bearing testimony, including
- [46: In Memoriam—Sister Chieko Okazaki and Elder Marion D. Hanks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/46-in-memoriam-sister-chieko-okazaki-and-elder-marion-d-hanks/) - The first week of August 2011 saw the passing of two giants in the Mormon universe: Sister Chieko Okazaki, a former counselor in the Relief Society general presidency and beloved author and speaker, and Elder Marion D. Hanks, a long-time general authority who many looked up to as one of Mormonism’s greatest champions for love,
- [47: When Worldviews Go Haywire: Breivik, Jeffs, and the Religion/Mental Health Matrix](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/47-when-worldviews-go-haywire-breivik-jeffs-and-the-religionmental-health-matrix/) - The recent tragedy in Oslo and the Warren Jeffs trial provide two recent examples that remind us of the way various personality traits and/or mental issues coupled with isolation and the refusal to allow one's own ideas to be challenged can lead to horrific acts of violence and depravity that the perpetrators claim to view
- [48: Mormonism and Evolution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/48-mormonism-and-evolution/) - This year marks the one hundredth anniversary of the controversies over the study and teaching of evolution at Brigham Young University that resulted in the resignations or firing of three of Brigham Young University’s prominent faculty members and a significant blow to the university career of another. This Mormon Matters episode tells key elements in
- [49: Mormonism’s Messages about Motherhood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/49-mormonisms-messages-about-motherhood/) - This panel discussion examines the wonderful gifts of Mormonism’s strong emphases and teachings about the divine role of motherhood as well as the external and internal pressures that come with these messages and how they sometimes work against the more basic gospel goal of helping women fully flourish and grow in godlike qualities. In this
- [50: The Call to Be Peacemakers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/50-the-call-to-be-peacemakers/) - The tenth anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks provide an important moment for all of us to reflect on life’s most precious things and what we hold in our hearts about family, friends, neighbors, our wider communities, strangers, and those with whom we disagree about what’s most important for the world and how to bring
- [51: The Dynamics of Guilt and Shame](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/51-the-dynamics-of-guilt-and-shame/) - Many people--and Latter-day Saints are no exception-- struggle with feelings of "not being enough," worthlessness, or that they are unlovable by others, God, and themselves. Those who feel this way are caught up in the throes of toxic shame--a distortion and perversion of natural and healthy feelings of "guilt" over wrong choices or healthy types
- [52: Rebirth of the Student Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/52-rebirth-of-the-student-review/) - From 1986 to 1997, the Student Review enjoyed a wonderful run as BYU’s independent student newspaper, which at its peak published weekly and reached a circulation of 10,000. During its years, SR featured a cross section of news reporting, essays, and wonderful humor and satire, with some of its stories resulting in changes to campus
- [53: Mormonism and Capital Punishment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/53-mormonism-and-capital-punishment/) - The recent execution of Troy Davis brought to the front once more the issue of capital punishment, especially arguments about the very real possibility of executing the wrong person, the unreliability of eye witness accounts, law enforcement pressures for conviction, and the possible brokenness of many of the safeguards that are in place to assure that
- [54: The Atonement in Mormon Thought and Experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/54-the-atonement-in-mormon-thought-and-experience/) - The central claim of Christianity is that all human beings are “fallen,” held captive by sin, or are in some other way in a dire circumstance that can only be overcome through God’s aid, which comes through faith in the infinite love and sacrifice of God’s own son, Jesus Christ. According to the Christian tradition, this
- [55: Cult Claims and the Media](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/55-cult-claims-and-the-media/) - This week’s Mormon Matters episode discusses two stories from the past week: (1) The dust-up over and media slam-down of remarks made by Texas mega-church pastor and Governor Rick Perry supporter Robert Jeffress that Mormonism is a cult—does this episode represent a real shift in the tenor of the “Mormon Moment”?; and (2) the news
- [56: Mormonism and Wealth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/56-mormonism-and-wealth/) - The recent Occupy Wall Street movement and its ongoing spread, along with the cover essay in the October 2011 issue of Harper’s that draws what the author of that piece sees as a direct link between Mormonism’s economic ideals and its rise in influence in society at large, and certain factions of the Republican Party
- [57: LDS Young Single Adult Experiences Revisited](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/57-lds-young-single-adult-experiences-revisited/) - Mormon Matters episode 31 featured a panel discussion about the LDS Church’s struggle to meet the needs of many of its young single adults and some of the possible reasons why. Episode 33 then highlighted in a more personal way through first-hand accounts from two people in this group some of the tensions they face
- [58: Obedience and Agency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/58-obedience-and-agency/) - Mormonism teaches the importance of being obedient to God and God’s will while at the same time emphasizing the bedrock fact of our individual agency. The gospel ideal is that we fully and knowingly submit our will to that of God, and in this way be obedient while still acting entirely out of our own
- [59: Mormon Messages about Priesthood, Fatherhood, Patriarchy, and More](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/59-mormon-messages-about-priesthood-fatherhood-patriarchy-and-more/) - In August, Mormon Matters hosted an important and fascinating discussion about messages Mormon women hear about their divine roles as mothers. What messages do Mormon men hear? Are they equally challenged to consider fatherhood their most important role, or do priesthood duties and responsibilities take first priority? Have messages about men's roles evolved over the
- [60: Matters of Integrity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/60-matters-of-integrity/) - Latter-day Saints who experience a faith crisis are thrust into unfamiliar and difficult territory, where they are forced to face many issues, including the decision to remain actively engaged with Mormonism, to step away for a while in an effort to regain their bearings and perhaps live into new perspectives or find fresh ways to
- [61: Mormon Views on Satan and the Origins of Evil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/61-mormon-views-on-satan-and-the-origins-of-evil/) - Most religions, cultures, and philosophies contain stories or theories about human evil and its origins. Some, including Mormonism, place a major portion of the blame for moral evil on a fallen angel, Lucifer, and his followers, who after being ousted from heaven become devils whose only desire is to thwart God’s plans and make loathsome
- [63: Oh Say, What Is Truth?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/oh-say-what-is-truth/) - We Mormons have heard it countless times: "I know the Church is true?" But what does this mean? Heck, even more basic, what does "true" mean? In this podcast, host Dan Wotherspoon and panelists Joanna Brooks, Dennis Potter, and Rhett Tenney take a deep dive into these questions. Explorations include overviews of major philosophical approaches,
- [64: Mormons and Prayer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/64-mormons-and-prayer/) - Mormons pray . . . a lot! Latter-day Saints are encouraged to have daily (twice or more) personal prayer, family prayer including children (in addition to parents praying together), prayers before meals, prayers for safety, and even other injunctions to "pray without ceasing." Mormon meetings and classes all open and close with prayer, and Mormons
- [65: LDS Views on Christ’s Second Coming and the End Times](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/65-lds-views-on-christs-second-coming-and-the-end-times/) - Elder Boyd K. Packer’s October 2011 General Conference encouragement to youth to not fear that because of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ they will not have a chance to have a full life, including having children and grandchildren, is the latest in what seems to be a trend among LDS leaders to de-emphasize the
- [66: Spiritual Secrets of Addiction Recovery](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/66-spiritual-secrets-of-addiction-recovery/) - As the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous discovered, something profound can happen when addicts invite God or a power higher than themselves into their lives and efforts at recovery. Through understanding addiction as a symptom of spiritual "dis-ease" and addressing recovery as an attempt to restore a healthy balance between one’s own ego and desires to
- [67–68: The Happiness Puzzle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/67-68-the-happiness-puzzle/) - What seems like something very simple to answer--"What is happiness?" or even, "What makes me happy?"--turns out to be anything but easy. How much do our expectations or pre-conceived ideas about what will make us happy come into play? How does the number of choices we have affect satisfaction with our lives? How much of
- [70: Is the World Getting Worse?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/70-is-the-world-getting-worse/) - We hear them all the time, statements about the world "going to hell in a hand basket," sighs and longings for "the good old days," warnings of rampant moral decay and declarations to all who want to follow God that they are living in "enemy territory." For those prone to depression and anxiety, such framings
- [71: Make Love AND War!: Maintaining Positive Relationships During Faith Transitions—A Spiritual Framing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/71-make-love-and-war-maintaining-positive-relationships-during-faith-transitions-a-spiritual-framing/) - This is an expanded version of the talk Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon gave at the Houston Region Mormon Stories Support Community conference held 20-21 January 2012. Using the biblical accounts of Jacob and the angel, and Jacob and Esau, as key texts, and organized around the central image of a "wrestling match" being simultaneously
- [72: Effecting Change in the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/72-effecting-change-in-the-church/) - This episode features panelists who all are deeply involved with the LDS Church, yet from their position of involvement in, and love and affection for, the church and those they worship and serve with, each of them acts as an agent for change. As one of the panelists, Carol Lynn Pearson, suggests in the podcast,
- [73: “And the Survey Says…!”: Reflections on Mormon Disaffection, Marlin Jensen’s Remarks, Recent Articles on Mormonism’s Challenge in Better Facing Its History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/73-and-the-survey-says-reflections-on-mormon-disaffection-marlin-jensens-remarks-recent-articles-on-mormonisms-challenge-in-better-facing-its-history/) - This episode is an attempt to aid in processing the current moment in which various Mormon-watching communities are beginning to digest the preliminary results that have recently been released from the Open Stories Foundation survey about why Mormons leave the church, which comes on the heels of remarks made in December at Utah State University
- [74: Writing Mormon Lives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/74-writing-mormon-lives/) - Phyllis Barber and Joanna Brooks are two of Mormonism’s bravest voices, writers of memoirs in which they offer us privileged glimpses of their inner lives, their comings of age in all the kinds of awkwardness that entails, including learning how to inhabit their bodies and sexuality in healthy ways, tensions between the path indicated by
- [75–76: Communicating About the Temple](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/75-76-communicating-about-the-temple/) - Mormon temple practices have come under renewed scrutiny recently as it has come to public attention that Mitt Romney’s father-in-law, a known non-religious person, had recently had temple ordinances performed on his behalf, and, in an even more emotionally charged case, that the names of the parents of well-known concentration camp survivor and Nazi hunter
- [Matters of the Heart 1: The Elder Daughter](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/matters-of-the-heart-1-the-elder-daughter/) - THE ELDER DAUGHTER by Kelly Quinn In this inaugural episode of Matters of the Heart, Kelly Quinn shares her essay, "The Elder Daughter," which she wrote after listening to Mormon Matters Episode 51 ("The Dynamics of Guilt and Shame") that contained a different angle on the Parable of the Prodigal Son than is typically given
- [Matters of Perspective 1: "Godwrestling--Physicality, Conflict, and Redemption in Mormon Doctrine"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/matters-of-perspective-1-godwrestling-physicality-conflict-and-redemption-in-mormon-doctrine/) - "GODWRESTLING--PHYSICALITY, CONFLICT, AND REDEMPTION IN MORMON DOCTRINE" By Rick Jepson In this inaugural episode of "Matters of Perspective," Rick Jepson reads his November 2005 Sunstone article, "Godwrestling: Physicality, Conflict, and Redemption in Mormon Doctrine," which explores through many different angles the transformative power of struggle, both physical and spiritual. It contains one of the most
- [77-78: Recognizing "the Spirit"](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/77-78-recognizing-the-spirit/) - Most of us were raised with the idea that even amidst all of life’s confusion, if we live in a certain way and follow clear steps to put ourselves in the right frame of mind and heart, we have the right and ability to know for certain God’s will and wisdom for us through communication
- [79-80: How Can We Truly Confront Racism within Mormon Thought and Culture?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/79-80-how-can-we-truly-confront-racism-within-mormon-thought-and-culture/) - A recent Washington Post article that discussed the origins and history of Mormonism’s racialized teachings and policies has caused quite a stir, launching important conversations. The article’s most controversial element was the inclusion of comments from BYU religion professor Randy Bott in which he denied that the former LDS ban on black persons holding the
- [81-82: Mormonism and Transhumanism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/81-82-mormonism-and-transhumanism/) - Technological advancements in recent decades have drastically altered human experience, with computing power and many other technologies growing at exponential rates. Our lives will continue to change, and most likely in ways that are presently incomprehensible. "Transhumanism" is a relatively new movement that is carefully considering this immanent future, paying particular concern to how humanity
- [83-84: Creating Spaces for Non-Traditional Latter-day Saints](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/83-84-creating-spaces-for-non-traditional-latter-day-saints/) - This episode explores both the difficulties of creating more comfortable spaces for unorthodox Mormons in wards, stakes, and families, as well as the benefits. What are some of the tensions that arise in LDS communities when engaging those who hold less-literal beliefs or embody idiosyncratic approaches to spirituality, religion, and community norms? What are some
- [Matters of the Heart 2: On "Masturbatory Rage": A Theatrical Call to Repentance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/matters-of-the-heart-2-on-masturbatory-rage-a-theatrical-call-to-repentance/) - ON "MASTURBATORY RAGE": A THEATRICAL CALL TO REPENTANCE By Allan Davis In this episode of Matters of the Heart, Allan Davis shares a short meditation about a call to repentance related to his transitioning relationship to Mormonism that he received last fall while attending the theatrical performance of a play called Church. A great listen
- [85–86: “Middle Way” Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/85-86-middle-way-mormonism/) - For many Mormons, their faith and relationship to the LDS Church has forever changed from what they were growing up. And this is how it should be. We’re all called to growth and to assuming responsibility for our own life choices, including the most compelling vision of what existence is all about, how we want
- [87–88: Pacific Island Mormon Identities](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/87-88-pacific-island-mormon-identities/) - This two-part episode features a fascinating, dynamic, and soaring discussion that takes us into the experiences, cultures, and elements of the worldviews of Latter-day Saints from Pacific Island nations. We learn pieces of the history of two of these nations as it relates to the LDS Church taking hold there, what elements resonate with those
- [89–90: Latter-day Saint “Mid-Singles” Experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/89-90-latter-day-saint-mid-singles-experience/) - The LDS Church recently restructured its “singles” wards, effectively shutting them off to unmarried people who are 31 years old or above. In many ways, this move formalized even more than previously the “limbo” of sorts that unmarried but still quite young Mormons find themselves in with relation to their church. Do they best fit
- [91: Cleanflix and What Its Story Reveals about Mormon Culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/91-cleanflix-and-what-its-story-reveals-about-mormon-culture/) - The documentary film Cleanflix tells the story of the dramatic rise and fall of businesses (based primarily in Utah) that rented and sold versions of Hollywood movies in which they had edited out bad language, nudity, sex scenes, gore, graphic violence, and anything else that they considered not a match for community standards. In telling
- [92–93: Can Mormon Theology Affirm Homosexual Relationships Now and in the Eternities?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/92-93-can-mormon-theology-affirm-homosexual-relationships-now-and-in-the-eternities/) - Like many other religious traditions today, Mormonism is wrestling with questions raised by homosexuality. And while both LDS rhetoric and many members’ affirmation of homosexuals as beloved children of God to embrace as fellow citizens in the household of faith are moving forward in many ways, these developments have been fed primarily by the inroads
- [94–95: Suicide](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/94-95-suicide/) - Suicide affects all of us, and involves so many devastating emotions. Grief (as one of the panelists refers to it, a very “complicated” form of grief), guilt (“What did I do wrong?” “I should have seen signs and intervened”), and, often, an element of concern for the deceased’s soul state (“Can they ever be forgiven?”
- [96–97: Mormonism and Its History—Past, Present, and Future](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/96-97-mormonism-and-its-history-past-present-and-future/) - Every religion has many dilemmas when it comes to its history. How does a group incorporate the idea of a God or Universal force or will that acts in the development of that group and/or the unfolding of world events when such things are not acceptable claims in academic disciplines? How does a tradition balance
- [98–99: “Middle Way” Mormonism and Women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/98-99-middle-way-mormonism-and-women/) - Mormon Matters episodes 85–86 featured a panel consisting of four men discussing "Middle Way Mormonism," a term that has been gaining traction as a way to describe a path that some Latter-day Saints are taking in which they attempt to negotiate the tensions that arise when they find themselves believing ideas or valuing certain things
- [100–101: Mormon Missions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/100-101-mormon-missions/) - This two-part episode focuses on the unique experience of Mormon missions--their wonderful, powerful, light aspects, as well as those elements that can lead things to go wrong and be potentially unhealthy. Panelists Derrick Clements, T.K., and Rory Swensen join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon in sharing about their mission experiences (two of them quite recently
- [102–103: Pragmatism, William James, and Mormon Sensibilities](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/102-103-pragmatism-william-james-and-mormon-sensibilities/) - Pragmatism is the name of a philosophical approach for judging between competing truth claims. It essentially says that if you are presented with two ideas and there is no clear way to determine which is superior to the other, you should consider the difference it would make to you if you decided to accept one
- [104: Growing Up Mormon—and Fearless](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/104-growing-up-mormon-and-fearless/) - The three guests in this Mormon Matters episode grew up in faithful, committed Mormon homes. In important ways, however, these panelists’ homes were different than what many listeners of the Open Stories family of podcasts experienced growing up in the way that these homes welcomed any and all questions about the faith and encouraged reading
- [105–106: Mormon “Doctrine” and Other Fuzzy Things](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/105-106-mormon-doctrine-and-other-fuzzy-things/) - Are there statements about God, humans, the universe, and any other thing that a Latter-day Saint "must" believe to be considered a "Mormon"? And, if so, how literally does one have to take these so-called "doctrines"? Are they close-to-perfect encapsulations of eternal truths that are consistently taught in scripture and that have hardly changed or
- [107–109: LDS Salvation Theology and Practices](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/107-109-lds-salvation-theology-and-practices/) - “Am I saved?” “Is this idea or that practice ‘pertinent to my salvation’?” Many Mormons and other Christians focus quite a lot of energy on concerns about possible rewards or punishments in the afterlife. And many, as seems natural for humans living in an unpredictable and confusing world, long for and (even very consciously) seek
- [111: Healthy Approaches to Supporting LGBT Latter-day Saints and Family Members](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/111-healthy-approaches-to-supporting-glbt-latter-day-saints-and-family-members/) - This podcast episode is timed to coincide with recent activism among many faithful straight, gay, and allied Latter-day Saints who marched and will march in recent and upcoming PRIDE parades and who are becoming increasingly visible in raising awareness of the hurts and suffering among the LGBT population and the importance for Mormons--leaders as well
- [112: Imagining New Ways to Think and Teach about Mormon Pioneers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/112-imagining-new-ways-to-think-and-teach-about-mormon-pioneers/) - On the verge of another Pioneer Day (July 24th), this one marking the 165th anniversary of the first Mormon pioneer wagon train reaching the Salt Lake Valley, Mormon Matters takes this opportunity to examine the current state of discourse and cultural practices (in the U.S. and abroad) surrounding those who sacrificed so much to cross plains,
- [113: Mormonism and Environmentalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/113-mormonism-and-environmentalism/) - How "green" is Mormonism? What is holding the tradition and culture back from becoming more environmentally sensitive—or even overtly activist? What theological and practical resources are there in Mormon thought and practice for fostering an ethic of greater care for the earth and its systems, including all the other forms of life with which we
- [114–116: Brazilian Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/114-116-brazilian-mormonism/) - This three-part episode features a wonderful discussion about some of the peculiarities about the LDS Mormon experience inBrazil, as well as the many ways that LDS experience seems universal. In doing so, it introduces Antonio Trevisan and Marcello Jun de Oliveira, two Brazilians who are leading the ABEM--Associação Brasileira de Estudos Mórmons (Brazilian Mormon Studies
- [117–118: Truth in Revelation and Scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/117-118-truth-in-revelation-and-scripture/) - What does it mean to still claim that scripture is “true” or “inspired” when we fully recognize that much of it is fictional (parable, allegory, poetic, mythic, clearly “shaped” to achieve certain effects) or when some scriptural claims clash with other scriptural claims or with historical and scientific facts? Once revelation or scripture has begun
- [122: Challenges in Making Church “Work” For Everyone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/122-challenges-in-making-church-work-for-everyone/) - In this episode, sociologist Jim Smithson talks of the LDS Church and all of its programs and organizational systems as a vehicle for delivering the gospel message, and uses the metaphor of a minivan in describing Mormonism's vehicle type. Minivans are great cars, but they fit best in middle-class and suburban areas where people can
- [123–124: Emergence Christianity and Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/123-124-emergence-christianity-and-mormonism/) - It goes without saying that religion is intricately entwined with culture. And since this is so, when we find that the various ways of thinking and institutions that create culture are shifting, so will we find religion in all its forms asking new questions, sorting through "the way things have always been done" and asking
- [125–126: Mormonism and Politics: Historical Perspectives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/125-126-mormonism-and-politics-historical-perspectives/) - Too often today’s political discourse reduces politics to partisanship, whether one affiliates with this or that political party. It’s a much broader topic, however, encompassing big notions about citizenship in a society, how we as a group of people make decisions, how we navigate our responsibilities to each other, to our government, and to our
- [127: Grace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/127-grace/) - Grace is one of the central concepts in all of Christianity, yet also one of its most contested. What is it? How does it work? Do we as human beings have to do something first for it to perform its healing work? Can we even turn from sin without Grace first being extended to us?
- [128: The One True Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/128-the-one-true-church/) - One of the most difficult things for many who have begun to think deeply about religion—their own as well as others and the relationship between them—and want to maintain a positive relationship with the idea of religion is the specter of exclusivism: claims that one’s views or one’s church is “the” Truth, or the “best,”
- [Matters of the Heart 3: A New Story for Mormon Women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/matters-of-the-heart-3-a-new-story-for-mormon-women/) - A NEW STORY FOR MORMON WOMEN By Joanna Brooks In this episode of Matters of the Heart, Joanna Brooks reads an excerpted version of her Ask Mormon Girl blog essay about the October 2012 announcement that the LDS Church has lowered the age at which women can serve missions. As Joanna shares her joy over
- [129–130: New Missionary Age](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/129-130-new-missionary-age/) - The LDS Church recently announced changes in the ages that young men and women can now serve missions. Will this announcement usher in a new age in missionary work? A new age for Mormonism itself? In this Mormon Matters episode, host Dan Wotherspoon and panelists Adam Jacobsen, Hannah Wheelwright, and Maxine Hanks speculate on just
- [131–132: The Word of Wisdom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/131-132-the-word-of-wisdom/) - The Word of Wisdom has been in the news again, triggered by a claim about caffeine made on a network news show, which led to an official LDS Newsroom statement clarifying the church’s position, which led to fascinating discussions and events, including hilarity at BYU over its policy of serving only de-caffeinated drinks, as well
- [133–134: LDS Spiritual Supplementing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/133-134-lds-spiritual-supplementing/) - Studies are showing a huge increase in the number of people who claim hybrid spiritual identities, in which their religious lives include a combination of practices and emphases from different traditions. Mormons are no exception, with many, and for many reasons, supplementing their LDS lived religion with meditation, energy work, channeling, nature spirituality, participation in
- [135–136: Racism and the Book of Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/135-136-racism-and-the-book-of-mormon/) - This episode examines the status of the claim that the Book of Mormon teaches that dark skin is a curse from God, that because of their wickedness God cursed a group of people and actually brought about a miraculous change in their skin color so as to make them seem “loathsome” and not enticing to
- [137–138: Science and Religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/137-138-science-and-religion/) - What is science? What is religion? What are the methods/disciplines and underlying assumptions that animate each? What does each investigate? What practices and institutions does each have in place that lead to self-correction and ensuring that they truly are working for truer, deeper understandings of the universe? Should science and religion remain separate from each
- [139: A Beautiful Vision of Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/139-a-beautiful-vision-of-mormonism/) - This episode was planned to be an exploration of the joys and perils of being a public face of Mormonism, especially as a woman, and in particular as women who write and speak about Mormon theology. What it ended up being is a rich, wise, affectionate, celebratory, pragmatic exploration of LDS theology, community life, and
- [140–141: A Christmas Primer: Exploring the Nativity in Scripture, Legend, History, and Hearts (Encore Presentation)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/140-141-a-christmas-primer-exploring-the-nativity-in-scripture-legend-history-and-hearts-encore-presentation/) - This is an encore presentation of a December 2011 podcast episode examining the Christmas story as it traditionally gets told—looking closely at what the scriptures actually say and do not say about the birth of Christ and all the pieces of this familiar story? How do the Matthew and Luke accounts differ—even irreconcilably? What motives
- [142–143: Process Theology and Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/142-143-process-theology-and-mormonism/) - The term "process theology" refers to a system of thought that emerged in the early twentieth century and is based primarily upon the reflections of Alfred North Whitehead and Charles Hartshorne. Both its name and its scope, however, engage questions that date to the beginning of formal philosophical thought about the nature of reality and
- [144–145: The Kingdom of God is Within You—Believing It, Trusting It, Accessing It](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/144-145-the-kingdom-of-god-is-within-you-believing-it-trusting-it-accessing-it/) - As we mature spiritually and are ready for deeper and more expansive experience, so much that religion focuses on—propositional statements of belief and messaging that leads us to believe “If we do this practice or that amount of good, we will be ‘saved’”—can begin to hinder our connection. Using the phrase attributed to Jesus that
- [146: Relationships First: Mormon Parents Face Their Child’s Faith Transition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/146-relationships-first-mormon-parents-face-a-childs-faith-transition/) - In this important episode that affirms love and clear vision, three LDS parents—Jeralee, Jim, and Teri—share their experiences in meeting the challenging situation of an adult child’s faith transition that leaves uncertain whether or not their future will include Mormonism in a significant way. In addition to sharing the outlines of their conversations and experiences
- [147–148: LDS and Pacific Islander Layers of the Manti Te’o Saga](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/147-148-lds-and-pacific-islander-layers-of-the-manti-teo-saga/) - Very little coverage of the story of the cruel hoax perpetrated on Notre Dame football player Manti Te’o has focused on aspects of the Mormon and Pacific Islander cultures that helped shape him and how these might help illuminate and give context to what seems so baffling to so many: how Te’o could be as
- [151–152: Short Takes—Adventures in Spirit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/151-152-short-takes-adventures-in-spirit/) - We are experimenting with a different type of show this time. Instead of diving into a single huge topic, this show features short takes: thoughts, stories, and combination of ideas that have been important to each participant, that have stuck with them, that have caused them to feel more oriented in the cosmos. As it
- [153–154: Integrity with Self and Family: Parents on Sharing Their Faith Transitions with Their Children](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/153-154-integrity-with-self-and-family-parents-on-sharing-their-faith-transitions-with-their-children/) - This episode continues a series of conversations about parents and children communicating about changes in faith perspectives. Episode 146 featured faithful, committed Latter-day Saint parents whose children shared with them their movement away from their earlier firm beliefs in Mormon truth claims. This current episode also features LDS parents, this time, however, the parents are
- [155–156: LDS Military Chaplains](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/155-156-lds-military-chaplains/) - This two-part episode offers a wonderful peek into military chaplaincy, a career unlike any other, and, in particular, experiences of LDS chaplains. Two active duty LDS Army chaplains—Nathan Kline and Jason Unsworth—and one retired LDS Air Force chaplain—Phil McLemore—share the history of chaplaincy and how it has evolved since even before the beginning of the
- [157–158: C.S. Lewis and Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/14177/) - C.S. Lewis is a towering twentieth-century figure, known especially as an author of fiction and meditations on Christianity and the work of God in human lives. His own life journey—he was born and raised within a Christian home and was a highly imaginative child who loved literature and mythology but later rejected both Christianity and
- [164: New Version of the LDS Scriptures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/164-new-version-of-the-lds-scriptures/) - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has just announced the online release of a new edition of the LDS scriptures, with physical copies to be made available beginning in August. Although the new version includes some spelling and punctuation changes along with minor tweaks to fonts and layout, the vast majority of the
- [165: Mormon Women Sharing Their Lives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/165-mormon-women-sharing-their-lives/) - This past week saw the publication of a book, Mormon Women Have Their Say (Greg Kofford Books), which is comprised of essays drawn from research into Mormon women’s histories that have been prompted by or collected as part of Claremont Graduate University’s Oral History Program. In this episode, the book’s editors, Claudia L. Bushman and
- [166–169: The Couplet (and Teachings about Theosis) in Today’s Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/166-169-the-couplet-and-teachings-about-theosis-in-todays-mormonism/) - The 2013 LDS Priesthood and Relief Society manual, Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Lorenzo Snow, features a lesson, “The Grand Destiny of the Faithful” (Chapter 5) in which one of President Snow’s most famous teachings makes a fresh appearance. Often referred to as “The Couplet,” it states: “As man now is, God once was:
- [170–171: Toward Expanding and Improving LDS Discourse about Sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/170-171-toward-expanding-and-improving-lds-discourse-about-sexuality/) - So often in Mormon discourse, the term "virtue" is treated almost exclusively as relating to sexual purity, chastity, and virginity, completely missing its much broader and wonderfully expansive meanings. Similarly, most talk about "morality," "passion," "modesty," and "sensuality" are spoken about almost solely in terms of sexuality. We receive, without careful parsing, statements about how
- [172–173: Proactive LDS Parenting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/172-173-proactive-lds-parenting/) - Most Latter-day Saints who are negotiating a faith transition, including developing a new relationship with God and the church in which they were nurtured, naturally hope to create a smoother road for their children than they have had themselves. For those who find themselves in this new faith terrain and who still have a strong
- [174–175: The Chaplains on . . . Suffering](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/174-175-the-chaplains-on-suffering/) - When we meet someone who is suffering, whether physically or emotionally, we naturally want to be of service to them. Sometimes our fears overcome us, and we avoid opportunities we’re presented with to “bear one another’s burdens” or “mourn with those who mourn” (Mosiah 18:8–9). Other times we step in but viscerally feel our inadequacies.
- [176–177: The Adam-God Doctrine: What? When? Still?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/176-177-the-adam-god-doctrine-what-when-still/) - When Brigham Young first taught in initial outlines of what is now known as the "Adam-God Doctrine" (or the "Adam-God Theory"—the preferred term by those who want to downplay its status within LDS doctrinal development) some commented that with this theological position the cat was truly "out of the bag!" It came as a huge
- [178–179: Tolerance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/178-179-tolerance/) - Tolerance is a tricky virtue. In a list of ways one might interact with others, it’s certainly better than active persecution but falls far short as an ideal way to engage people or ideas we don’t fully understand or (yet) trust. How do we draw the line between the need to protect ourselves from potentially
- [180: Mormon Missions Take to Facebook!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/180-mormon-missions-take-to-facebook/) - On Sunday, June 23, 2013, LDS leaders announced changes to the LDS missionary program, with most of the new focus directed to decreasing door-to-door contacting, and instead shifting attention to conversations on and teaching through Facebook and missionary blogs. The shift is to unfold gradually worldwide, having been piloted the past couple of years in
- [181: Grieving (and Can We Do it Better?)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/181-grieving-and-can-we-do-it-better/) - The death of loved ones and other difficult transitions really shake us up, and it is very natural for us to want and need to grieve our losses. Unfortunately, we sometimes don’t take the time to fully acknowledge our pain and the complicated emotions associated with that person (or situation) or choose to allow our
- [182–183: Is Mormonism’s God Worthy of Worship?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/182-183-is-mormonisms-god-worthy-of-worship/) - Mormonism has a distinctive view of God that differs quite a bit from that of traditional theism. And though we as Latter-day Saints recognize and most often celebrate the differences, in our Sunday and typical discourse about God and God’s power and influence, we very often sound as if there is little distinctiveness. One way
- [184–185: Hugh Nibley—Part 1: A Fascinating Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/184-185-hugh-nibley-part-1-a-fascinating-life/) - These episodes launch a three-part series on Hugh Nibley (1910–2005), a towering figure in twentieth-century Mormonism who every Latter-day Saint deserves to know better. Most often viewed as an intellectual, scholar of the ancient world, teacher, and defender of the faith, Nibley is also one of Mormonism’s most vocal and incisive social critics, a beloved
- [186–187: Hugh Nibley—Part 2: Scholar and Defender of the Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/186-187-hugh-nibley-part-2-scholar-and-defender-of-the-faith/) - These episodes (186 & 187) constitute the second of our three-part series on Hugh Nibley (1910–2005), focusing this time on Nibley as scholar of the ancient world and the ways he applied this scholarship to places of intersection with LDS scripture, history, and theology. In these episodes, Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon is joined by
- [188–189: Hugh Nibley—Part 3: Prophet of Zion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/188-189-hugh-nibley-part-3-prophet-of-zion/) - In this third and final installment of our Hugh Nibley series, we look at Nibley’s powerful, far-ranging, and definitely direct/hard-hitting/deliciously skewering social critiques. Ranging from warnings and insights about the accumulation and concentration of wealth to the forces driving war, environmental destruction, and keeping us from truly enjoying the abundance the Lord desires for us,
- [190–191: The Institutional Church and the Individual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/190-191-the-institutional-church-and-the-individual/) - Are we made for the Sabbath, or is the Sabbath made for us? Likewise, are we here primarily to serve the Church, or does the Church exist to serve and assist us as individuals? Most of us would think the second part of each sentence represents the deeper truth, yet so often it seems we
- [192: The Hero's Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/192-the-heros-journey/) - Joseph Campbell spent a lifetime studying myths and stories from around the world, especially the ones that related to life’s biggest questions: Where did everything come from?; Is there purpose to the things that come up in our lives?; How do we as human beings fully flourish? For him, we as human beings aren’t seeking
- [193: Ordain Women and Renewed Conversations about Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/193-ordain-women-and-renewed-conversations-about-priesthood/) - On 5 October, a group of women (and some male supporters) will, either through tickets granted by LDS leaders (they have petitioned leaders for them) or via the stand-by line, attempt to gain entrance to the priesthood session of general conference. Spearheaded by the group Ordain Women, the announcement of these plans has set LDS
- [194–197: Genesis, Part 1—Creation, Garden, Expulsion, Cursing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/194-197-genesis-part-1-creation-garden-expulsion-cursing/) - The texts that Latter-day Saints and other Christians call the Old Testament (differing from scholars, who use Hebrew Bible or Tanakh) is both wonderfully rich and very problematic scripture. Its richness derives from its status as an account of how ancient persons saw the world, the nature of God, and the human condition. These venerable
- [198: Engaging Mormonism from Outside the Fold](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/198-engaging-mormonism-from-outside-the-fold/) - Over the course of its run, Mormon Matters has received emails from non-LDS persons who have become regular listeners to the podcast, as well as participants in online LDS “Bloggernacle” groups and other discussions about Mormonism. This episode features four of them—three in person, Bridget McGregor, Karrie Higgins, and Les Gripkey, and one who sent
- [199: Untangling Faith, Belief, and the Expectation to “Know”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/199-untangling-faith-belief-and-the-expectation-to-know/) - We think we know what it means to "believe" or to "have faith." But do we? Has the current ways we use these terms remained stable throughout history? No, says Frances Lee Menlove in an important essay in her new book, The Challenge of Honesty: Essays for Latter-day Saints. She argues further that these changes
- [200: Let’s Collaborate!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/200-lets-collaborate/) - This short episode announces two projects I’d love to work on with collaborators from the Mormon Matters listening community. The first is a call for stories that would become part of a podcast episode, or a series of episodes, and possibly also a book (or series of books). Right now I want to call this
- [201: Good Shepherds](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/201-good-shepherds/) - My recent call for stories of LDS leaders who through their vision and love and ways of inhabiting their pastoral roles have made a wonderful difference in people’s lives has been answered spectacularly by four listeners—Loree, Brian Dillman, Brian Kissell, and Katie Langston (whose segment also includes a neat surprise). As each person tells her
- [202–203: Genesis, Part 2—The Flood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/202-203-genesis-part-2-the-flood/) - In this two-part episode, we continue our series on the Old Testament/Hebrew Bible by examining one of scripture’s most difficult stories--God choosing to unleash a flood designed to kill all living beings on the planet except a select few. In this episode, panelists David Bokovoy, Tom Roberts, and Brian Hauglid examine the scriptural text itself,
- [204–205: The New Statement on Race and the Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/204-205-the-new-statement-on-race-and-the-priesthood/) - On 6 December 2013, the LDS Church posted on its website, LDS.org, a new document titled, "Race and the Priesthood," along with videos and other resources for better understanding the history of race issues within Mormonism, as well clarifying its current positions. The key piece of the statement is a renunciation of past teachings about
- [206: At Peace with Human Prophets--Personal Journeys](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/206-at-peace-with-human-prophets-personal-journeys/) - The recent official statement on Race and the Priesthood has highlighted in a fresh way the difficult issue of prophets and apostles who are subject to the influences of culture and largely unexamined assumptions of their day that color their understandings of and impact their statements about sometimes very important matters. If this is so,
- [207: Teaching the Old Testament to Latter-day Saints](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/207-teaching-the-old-testament-to-latter-day-saints/) - One of the most difficult but important things we can do as Mormons who are alerted to the complexities of cultural differences and sacred writings is to learn how to share in church settings insights we’ve gleaned from our studies. We have a dual challenge: (1) to try to be as faithful as possible to
- [208: Who Was/Is Jesus?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/208-who-wasis-jesus/) - In this episode that was co-produced with the Mormon Sunday School and Feminist Mormon Housewives podcasts, Eric Huntsman, Jared Anderson, and Lindsay Hansen Park join me for a fascinating examination of the what has often been referred to as the "quest for the historical Jesus," and especially the ways in which the Jesus who lived
- [209: New LDS Statement on Book of Mormon Translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/209-new-lds-statement-on-book-of-mormon-translation/) - The LDS Church has recently published on its website, lds.org, a short article titled "Book of Mormon Translation" that lays out in greater detail than perhaps ever before in an official statement some of the lesser-known aspects of the Book of Mormon translation process, such as Joseph Smith’s use of (and even preference for) a
- [210: Genesis, Part 3--Cursing of Canaan and the Tower of Babel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/210-genesis-part-3-cursing-of-canaan-and-the-tower-of-babel/) - In this episode, the Mormon Matters "Genesis Team"--David Bokovoy, Tom Roberts, and Brian Hauglid--share good, fair, and scholarly framings of two difficult biblical stories: (1) the cursing of Canaan, Ham’s son, to become a servant to the races descending from Noah’s other two sons because of his Ham's indiscretions upon discovering Noah naked within his
- [211: Genesis, Part 4—Abraham](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/211-genesis-part-4-abraham/) - In this episode, members of the Mormon Matters “Genesis Team”—David Bokovoy, Tom Roberts, and Brian Hauglid—discuss and give textual and theological analyses of the Genesis and Book of Abraham accounts of the great patriarch Abraham. Where do the texts differ? Are there resources from ancient studies or the wider Judeo-Christian literature that bolster some of
- [212: A Fresh Look at Mitt Romney](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/212-a-fresh-look-at-mitt-romney/) - Beginning shortly after the close of his 2012 presidential bid, Mitt Romney has kept a pretty low profile. However, the recent Sundance Film Festival has forced some renewed public attention on him with the screening of the documentary, Mitt, by filmmaker Greg Whiteley, along with the film’s availability on the popular media streaming service Netflix.
- [213–214: The Book of Abraham as Scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/213-214-the-book-of-abraham-as-scripture/) - For many struggling Latter-day Saints, a pivotal moment in their transitioning faith comes when they are confronted with the mismatch between traditional teachings about the Book of Abraham being an ancient text written by the patriarch Abraham and a nearly universal scholarly consensus that it is based upon much later, and quite ordinary funerary documents
- [215: Mormonism’s Modesty and Sexuality Discourse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/215-mormonisms-modesty-and-sexuality-discourse/) - The cover of the March 2014 Ensign highlights an article, “The Lord’s Standard of Morality” by Elder Tad R. Callister, that has been the subject of much Internet talk of late, with most voices recognizing the importance of the subject and good desires of the author and those who chose to publish it but expressing
- [216: Preserving and Strengthening Relationships During Faith Transitions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/216-preserving-and-strengthening-relationships-during-faith-transitions/) - Most listeners to Mormon Matters, like all seekers, are undergoing a faith transition—hopefully one of continuous deepening into greater richness of experience and peace. Often, however, faith transitions feel more like "crises" for persons in the midst of the reorientation, as well as for family members and others close to them who are not sharing
- [217–221: (Encore) An Easter Primer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/217-221-encore-an-easter-primer/) - Encore presentation of a great discussion of all things Easter first released 12 March 2013. With a forty-day Lenten season that flows to a conclusion in Holy Week and its beautiful rituals, for many Christians, Easter (even more than Christmas) marks the spiritual high point of the year. At no other time do sacred time
- [222–223: Becoming Like God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/222-223-becoming-like-god/) - The most recent entry in the Gospel Topics series at lds.org, "Becoming Like God," represents the LDS church’s newest attempt to help clarify (for members, media, and those with other interests in Mormonism) often misunderstood or difficult gospel teachings or practices. It, like all the essays in the series, is well-crafted with many scriptural and
- [224: Genesis, Part 5—Entertaining Angels; Sodom and Gomorrah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/224-genesis-part-5-entertaining-angels-sodom-and-gomorrah/) - In this episode, the Mormon Matters "Genesis Team"--David Bokovoy, Tom Roberts, and Brian Hauglid--join host Dan Wotherspoon for a discussion of Genesis 18 and 19, which chapters feature stories of both Abraham and Lot hosting divine messengers who are intent on destroying the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, and their negotiating for the safety
- [225: Wrestling with Prophets and Scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/225-wrestling-with-prophets-and-scripture/) - Among the most important and difficult wrestles in a faith transition are the struggles to move into new, better nuanced, and richer understandings of previously held concepts, as well as learning to gain greater and greater trust in our own spiritual experiences as the essential authoritative force in our lives. As Latter-day Saints in transition,
- [226: The “Best Thing” About Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/266-the-best-thing-about-mormonism/) - This episode strays from Mormon Matters’ typical panel discussion format, featuring instead four one-on-one conversations between host Dan Wotherspoon and wonderful friends of his who he asked to think about and share share their favorite thing about Mormonism. What it is that they like or love most about Mormonism or life as a Mormon? What
- [228–229: Mapping LDS Faith Transitions (with help from James Fowler)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/228-229-mapping-lds-faith-transitions-with-help-from-james-fowler/) - Many Mormon Matters listeners find their way to the podcast and other online communities and discussion groups because they recognize that they are experiencing some kind of "faith transition," a re-orienting in their relationships with life’s fundamental questions, powers, and values. Often, however, this transition feel to us much more like a crisis. Would things
- [231: Perspectives on News of Possible Excommunications of LDS Activists, Part 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/231-perspectives-on-news-of-possible-excommunications-of-lds-activists-part-1/) - June 11 brought news that Kate Kelly, founder of Ordain Women, and John Dehlin, prominent public LDS voice through Mormon Stories and other podcasts and venues, have been called to face church disciplinary councils for "apostasy," as evidenced through their activism and public expressions of concern regarding various issues facing today's Mormonism. Alan Rock Waterman has
- [232: Perspectives on News of Possible Excommunications of LDS Activists, Part 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/232-perspectives-on-news-of-possible-excommunications-of-lds-activists-part-2/) - June 11 brought news that Kate Kelly, founder of Ordain Women, and John Dehlin, prominent public LDS voice through Mormon Stories and other podcasts and venues, have been called to face church disciplinary councils for "apostasy," as evidenced through their activism and public expressions of concern regarding various issues facing today's Mormonism. Alan Rock Waterman has
- [233: Perspectives on News of Possible Excommunications of LDS Activists, Part 3](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/233-perspectives-on-news-of-possible-excommunications-of-lds-activists-part-3/) - June 11 brought news that Kate Kelly, founder of Ordain Women, and John Dehlin, prominent public LDS voice through Mormon Stories and other podcasts and venues, have been called to face church disciplinary councils for "apostasy," as evidenced through their activism and public expressions of concern regarding various issues facing today's Mormonism. Alan Rock Waterman has
- [234: Perspectives on News of Possible Excommunications of LDS Activists, Part 4](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/234/) - June 11 brought news that Kate Kelly, founder of Ordain Women, and John Dehlin, prominent public LDS voice through Mormon Stories and other podcasts and venues, have been called to face church disciplinary councils for "apostasy," as evidenced through their activism and public expressions of concern regarding various issues facing today's Mormonism. Alan Rock Waterman has
- [235: Perspectives on News of Possible Excommunications of LDS Activists, Part 5](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/235-perspectives-on-news-of-possible-excommunications-of-lds-activists-part-5/) - June 11 brought news that Kate Kelly, founder of Ordain Women, and John Dehlin, prominent public LDS voice through Mormon Stories and other podcasts andvenues, have been called to face church disciplinary councils for "apostasy," as evidenced through their activism and public expressions of concern regarding various issues facing today's Mormonism. Alan Rock Waterman has also
- [236: Encountering Other Traditions, Part 1: Freemasonry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/236-encountering-other-traditions-part-1-freemasonry/) - Mormon Matters is launching a new series that focuses on Latter-day Saints who, in addition to their Mormonism, are intimately familiar with another religion or philosophical tradition and whose spirituality has grown through that encounter. In this first episode of the series, Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon engages four LDS Freemasons: Patrick McCleary, Lorenzo (Lon)
- [230: The Mormon God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/230-the-mormon-god/) - Mormons have several quite distinctive views of God, but do most Mormons realize it? In almost every theological area, ranging from the nature of God as Creator (creating “from nothing” or as organizer of eternal element?) to the four major “omnis”—omnipotent, omniscient, omnibenevolent, and omnipresent—Mormons have a take that is often quite different from traditional
- [269: The Effects of Excommunication on All of Us: Healing Perspectives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/269-the-effects-of-excommunication-on-all-of-us-healing-perspectives/) - This week’s excommunication from the LDS Church of John Dehlin, and its making fresher the memory of Kate Kelly’s excommunication last summer as well as other actions taken against persons of conscience who have found themselves in tension with the church, is taking a great emotional and spiritual toll on many of us. We are
- [237–238: Hope and Healing in the Face of LDS Current Events](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/237-238-hope-and-healing-in-the-face-of-lds-current-events/) - As we in the LDS Bloggernacle continue to process and strive for healing and renewed hope during this time of unease and pain caused by the recent church disciplinary actions for public LDS voices, it is important to hear helpful framings from experienced and wise friends. Moderated by Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon, this episode
- [239–243: Jesus Christ within Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/239-243-jesus-christ-within-mormonism/) - We Latter-day Saints “talk of Christ . . . rejoice in Christ . . . preach of Christ . . . prophesy of Christ . . . and write of Christ, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins” (2 Nephi 25:26). But have we always
- [244–246: Genesis, Part 6—Isaac, Rebekah, Esau, and the Transformation of Jacob](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/244-246-genesis-part-6-isaac-rebekah-esau-and-the-transformation-of-jacob/) - In this episode, the Mormon Matters "Genesis Team"—David Bokovoy, Tom Roberts, and Brian Hauglid—join host Dan Wotherspoon for a discussion of Genesis 24–33, which focus on the God-ordained meeting and marriage of Isaac and Rebekah, and the tales of their twin sons, Esau and Jacob—many of which focus on trickery and deception in order to
- [247: The “Best Thing” About Mormonism—2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/247-the-best-thing-about-mormonism-2/) - This episode features four one-on-one conversations between Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon and wonderful friends of his—Jeff Krey, Chelsi Archibald, Jim Smithson, and Becky Linford—who he asked to think about and share their favorite thing about Mormonism. What it is that they like or love most about Mormonism or life as a Mormon? What idea or practice
- [248: Approaching Scriptural Texts with Fresh Eyes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/248-approaching-scriptural-texts-with-fresh-eyes/) - Scripture is not its own genre. Some scriptural texts are letters, some are songs or descriptions of rituals and liturgies, some poetry. Many sections are historical narratives, but others fall into the classification of "wisdom literature," a genre that has completely different goals from historical accounts and a radically different view of what is or
- [249–250: Being Authentic within Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/249-250-being-authentic-within-mormonism/) - Mormonism is a powerful tradition, presenting a worldview and truth claims that are extremely potent, but also creating a culture that can be, for many of us, totalizing. When we feel safe and secure within its teachings and the sense of meaning it presents, it can be a wonderful, comfortable home. If, on the other
- [253: Supporting Missionary Work During or After a Faith Transition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/253-supporting-missionary-work-during-or-after-a-faith-transition/) - The importance of actively participating in sharing the gospel is a prominent topic in contemporary Mormonism. For youth, there are big pushes to prepare for and serve a full-time mission. For parents, one of our most important calls is to raise future missionaries. We’re frequently called on to pray for inspiration about who in our
- [254: Meet the Mormons--Is It Signaling a Shift in Mormon Identity?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/254-meet-the-mormons-is-it-signaling-a-shift-in-mormon-identity/) - Meet the Mormons was filmed for use in LDS visitor centers, but in a surprising move it was released in U.S. theaters on October 10th, and was seen by a substantial number of people--mostly Mormons, and many there from encouragement by leaders or local organizers to attend the opening weekend and convince theater owners to
- [255: New Church Video on LDS Temple Clothing and Garments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/255-new-church-video-on-lds-temple-clothing-and-garments/) - Through its Newsroom website, the LDS Church recently released a new video and essay that depicts Mormonism’s sacred temple clothing, along with the garments worn by those who have gone through the temple and made covenants there. The video and essay frame temple robes and garments as continuous with the phenomenon of sacred clothing worn
- [256: The Church’s New Articles on Plural Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/256-the-churchs-new-articles-on-plural-marriage/) - The LDS Church has just released via its website, LDS.org, several new essays under the heading "Plural Marriage in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints." The cluster includes a framing article (named above) and links to three more detailed pieces: "Plural Marriage in Kirtland and Nauvoo" (new article), "Plural Marriage and Families in
- [257: Negotiating Adult Faith within a Developing Institution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/257-negotiating-adult-faith-within-a-developing-institution/) - Just as many theorists understand individual human maturation through developmental stages, a great deal of literature suggests that institutions (churches, corporations, governments) as well as other all other groups, cultures, and societies, also undergo similar processes. In this episode, guest host Katie Langston and panelists Dan Wotherspoon, Marybeth Raynes, and Brad Kramer discuss ideas about socio-cultural evolution at large, but ground
- [260: Introversion and the Mormon Experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/260-introversion-and-the-mormon-experience/) - No two individuals are exactly alike, and no schema can fully capture our particular essence or personality. Yet it is sometimes helpful to speak about different temperaments or "personality types." One of the largest personality type groupings distinguishes between "extroverts" and "introverts," with certain studies recognizing between 30 and 50 percent of people as introverts.
- [258: Question 7](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/258-question-7/) - In the LDS temple recommend interview, Question 7 reads: "Do you support, affiliate with, or agree with any group or individual whose teachings or practices are contrary to or oppose those accepted by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?" This question came into public consciousness this past week when, in the wake of
- [259: A Reason for the Hope That Is In Me](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/259-a-reason-for-the-hope-that-is-in-me/) - In 1 Peter, we are encouraged as Christians to always be ready to give voice to "a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear" (1 Peter 3:15). This past weekend, I was given an opportunity to do just that when I shared reflections from my spiritual journey as part of
- [261: Faith and Repentance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/261-faith-and-repentance/) - Because they come up so often in gospel lessons and are indeed the “first principles” of the gospel (Article of Faith 4), we might think that a 90-minute podcast on faith and repentance would be redundant and boring. Not so when talked about by Sam Brown and Adam Miller! Mixing personal stories with scripture and
- [262: Gospel Burn-Out](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/262-gospel-burn-out/) - Ever feel worn down, your spiritual life lagging, feeling like all you are doing is going through the motions, and church engagement is feeling more like "gospel grind" than blessing? When we find ourselves in one of these moments--perhaps days, months, years!--what might we do to recover a little of that energy and sense of
- [263–264: Ordinances](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/263-264-ordinances/) - In the Doctrine and Covenants, we read that it is through ordinances that “the power of godliness is manifest” (D&C 84:20). There are many ways to read this scripture, various angles to take, and all of them are fruitful. In this two-part episode, Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon and panelists Samuel Brown and Brad Kramer
- [265–266: Mormonism as a “Religion”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/265-266-mormonism-as-a-religion/) - Of course Mormonism is a religion. But do we always think about it through the lenses of such a big and diverse category? Among those who are born into and/or otherwise live and experience the world primarily through the lenses of Mormonism, most often their focus is on its “truth claims” as well as the
- [267–268: The Gospels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/267-268-the-gospels/) - In this two-part Mormon Matters episode, Taylor Petrey and Eric Huntsman join host Dan Wotherspoon to help ground the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in the political, geographic, linguistic, and religious contexts of their times. What do we know (and not know!) about the authors of these texts, when they wrote, and their
- [270: “Yes, and . . .”: Activism and Renewal in a Tragic World](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/270-yes-and-activism-and-renewal-in-a-tragic-world/) - We all recognize that there is a significant distance between the "real" world we live in and the "ideal" one we’d love to see instantiated. Parker Palmer calls this space between real and ideal the "tragic gap." He uses "tragic" to denote the inevitability of this distance and to acknowledge that even the greatest person
- [271: Speaking with Loved Ones about Faith Differences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/271-speaking-with-loved-ones-about-faith-differences/) - In this episode, co-released with Mormon Stories, Wendy Williams Montgomery, John Dehlin, and Dan Wotherspoon speak about the difficult dynamics at play in discussing with loved ones, whether family, friends, or ward members, about differences in faith positions after one party or another has shifted. In contrast with the types of challenges presented to people
- [272: Paul’s Theology of Grace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/272-pauls-theology-of-grace/) - The Apostle Paul’s theology can be difficult to grasp--and, in a few ways, especially so for Mormons. Some challenges arise from Latter-day Saints’ primary use of the King James Translation of the Bible, which has often very beautiful language but also contains archaic expressions that sometimes confuse English readers and obscure key connections between ideas.
- [273: The Passion (Final Week of Jesus’s Life)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/273-the-passion-final-week-of-jesuss-life/) - On 29 March 2015, the Christian world will celebrate Palm Sunday, which commemorates Jesus’s entrance into Jerusalem for what turned out to be the final few days of his life. This final week, especially his suffering in Gethsemane, betrayal, and crucifixion, are also widely known as "The Passion," and commemorations of these and other events
- [274–275: Beyond Belief and Unbelief](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/274-275-beyond-belief-and-unbelief/) - We bring our faith crises to word most often through expressions about our no longer “believing” this or that teaching. We’ve been confronted with evidence that challenges a truth claim or leads us to no longer unquestionably follow leaders or our current life scripts, and we naturally concentrate our attention on those claims that are
- [276: Being Heard in Today’s Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/276-being-heard-in-todays-church/) - At the April 2015 General Conference, several church members took the unusual step of voicing opposition during the sustaining of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve. Frustrated with the lack of dialogue between the church’s top leaders and those with questions about church doctrines, or who hope to help leaders see the negative
- [277: Does Powerful Faith Require Scriptural Literalism?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/277-does-powerful-faith-require-scriptural-literalism/) - In speaking at the April 2015 General Conference about the Atonement and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland boldly stated that "the simple truth is that we cannot fully comprehend the Atonement and Resurrection of Christ and we will not adequately appreciate the unique purpose of His birth or His death--in other words,
- [278: Encountering Other Traditions, Part 2: Roman Catholicism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/278-encountering-other-traditions-part-2-roman-catholicism/) - This episode is the second installment in the Mormon Matters "Encountering Other Traditions" series that explores the fruits that come from bringing Mormonism into dialogue with other faiths. The focus of this conversation is an exploration of Mormon and Catholic connections as well as differences, and the ways that intimacy with the other tradition can
- [279–280: Mutual Respect: Creating Healthy Relationships When Loved Ones Choose a Different Faith Path](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/279-280-mutual-respect-creating-healthy-relationships-when-loved-ones-choose-a-different-faith-path/) - For more than a decade, Chelsea Shields Strayer and her parents, Eric and Heidi Shields, have held very difficult but ultimately fruitful conversations regarding her struggles within Mormonism, which eventually led her to no longer believe its teachings or choose to continue to engage as an active member. Their journey together during this time has
- [281: LDS Film: Present, Future, Roles, Tensions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/281-lds-film-present-future-roles-tensions/) - This episode features a fantastic conversation on film and the many roles it plays in human lives and communities, especially religious ones. Along the way it wrestles with the tensions that are always present in films for niche audiences, especially when filmmakers try to tell compelling stories while at the same time hoping to make
- [282: Baptism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/282-baptism/) - What seem to be very simple rituals and teachings become, under sustained reflection and a reflective spiritual walk, immensely rich. This is the case with this episode, which continues a series started this past December and January (episodes 261, 263-264) discussing topics in Samuel M. Brown’s book, First Principles and Ordinances: The Fourth Article of Faith in
- [283: Being an Ally](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/283-being-an-ally/) - Every group that struggles for greater voice, rights, and fairness welcomes and draws strength from “allies,” people who are not a member of that group yet stand up for or work (mostly) behind the scenes to further the cause. It’s an important role, and one that can be very satisfying, but it’s also an unusual position
- [284–285: Worthiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/284-285-worthiness/) - "Worthiness" is a word that pops up quite often in LDS circles. It is as prominent as it is primarily because it is invoked when talking about ecclesiastical interviews, most often tied to temple recommends but also associated with the charge bishops receive to regularly interview the ward’s youth. And it also has taken hold
- [286: Sunstone 2015](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/286-sunstone-2015/) - Sunstone is a unique organization within the Mormon intellectual world. For more than forty years it has published a magazine and annually convened symposiums of many varieties, hosting voices from all over the Mormon spectrum. It has faced many challenges through the years but is now thriving again, continuing to fill niches that only it
- [289: The Gift of the Holy Ghost     ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/289-the-gift-of-the-holy-ghost/) - This episode on the gift of the Holy Ghost is the fourth in a series discussing what the Articles of Faith refer to as the first principles and ordinances of the gospel. All four have featured Samuel M. Brown, author of the book First Principles and Ordinances: The Fourth Article of Faith in Light of
- [287–288: Joseph Smith’s Use of a Seer Stone in Bringing Forth the Book of Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/287-288-joseph-smiths-use-of-a-seer-stone-in-bringing-forth-the-book-of-mormon/) - On Tuesday, August 4th, the LDS Church in conjunction with the Community of Christ held a press conference announcing the newest volume in the ongoing Joseph Smith Papers project. This new two-volume work contains high definition color pictures of each page of the Book of Mormon "printers manuscript" (owned by the Community of Christ) on
- [290–291: Past, Present, and Possible Futures of Mormon Studies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/290-291-past-present-and-possible-futures-of-mormon-studies/) - The academic study of religion has been around for a long time. And although there are many examples of books and articles that have used academic lenses to explore various aspects of Mormonism, it’s only in the past two decades that we’ve begun to see the formal rise of "Mormon Studies." In this episode, Brian
- [292: The Landscape of Mormon Theology: Terryl Givens at the Rockwell Museum](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/292-the-landscape-of-mormon-theology-terryl-givens-at-the-rockwell-museum/) - On 7 March 2015, Terryl Givens gave a wonderful lecture and was interviewed at the Rockwell Museum in Corning, New York. The occasion was a Mormon History Association satellite event in which Givens was asked to speak on “An American Journey across the Landscape of Mormon Theology.” Since MHA does not have a podcast, and
- [293–294: Dan Wotherspoon Interview by John Dehlin about Helping People Find Rich Spirituality within Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/293-294-dan-wotherspoon-interview-by-john-dehlin-about-helping-people-find-rich-spirituality-within-mormonism/) - Co-released with Mormon Stories podcast, this two-part episode features John Dehlin interviewing Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon about his life within Mormonism and role as a public voice for finding peace and richness within the LDS faith even as he is not what many Latter-day Saints would consider as fully orthodox. See also episodes 295–296 in
- [295–296: John Dehlin Interviewed by Dan Wotherspoon about His Beliefs, Spiritual Path, and Upcoming Projects](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/295-296-john-dehlin-interviewed-by-dan-wotherspoon-about-his-beliefs-spiritual-path-and-upcoming-projects/) - Co-released with Mormon Stories podcast, this two-part episode features Dan Wotherspoon interviewing Mormon Stories host John Dehlin about his life within Mormonism and role as a public voice for greater openness, transparency, and compassion within the LDS Church, especially those who find themselves marginalized by the institution and local communities. As a tireless fighter on
- [297–298: The State of Public History in Today's Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/297-298-297-the-state-of-public-history-in-todays-mormonism-part-1/) - In this two-part episode, Lindsay Hansen Park, Brian Whitney, and Jon Grimes join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon for a discussion of how Mormon history is understood and engaged with among typical Latter-day Saints. How do non-historians understand the nature of the historian’s task, about how many different approaches to understanding history there are, each
- [299–300: Being Wrong (in a Church and Culture that Emphasizes Being Right)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/299-300-being-wrong-in-a-church-and-culture-that-emphasizes-being-right/) - In this two-part episode, Brian Dillman, Julienna Viegas-Haws, and Anna Smith join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon in a discussion about "being wrong!" Or make that Being Wrong: Adventures in the Margin of Error (CCC, 2010). It's a rich subject and wonderful book, and each of the panelists share favorite insights from their encounters with
- [301–302: Doubt and Faith as Discussed in the October 2015 General Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/301-302-doubt-and-faith-as-discussed-in-the-october-2015-general-conference/) - Four talks in the October 2015 General Conference focused, at least to a significant degree, on the issues of doubt and faith, and also chose to warn church members about possible harm should they turn primarily to Internet sources when they are faced with questions about Church teachings, practice, or history. Many of us who
- [303: Why Is This All So Hard?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/303-why-is-this-all-so-hard/) - Faith journeys are insanely difficult. Why? In this episode, Lindsay Hansen Park, Jon Grimes, Brian Whitney, and Emily Grover join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon in a spirited discussion about a few of the many factors that come into play when one’s faith and understandings about God, church, and ourselves are challenged. The group occasionally
- [Matters of Perspective 4: “What the Church Means to People Like Me”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/matters-of-perspective-4-what-the-church-means-to-people-like-me/) - This classic sermon by former BYU history professor Richard D. Poll, read here for Matters of Perspective by Curt Bench, introduces themetaphors of “Iron Rod” and “Liahona” Latter-day Saint as helpful for understanding two different religious temperaments and the way each approaches life and, more particularly, scripture and the foundational truth claims of Mormonism. Poll’s
- [Matters of Perspective 3: “Why the Church Is As True As the Gospel”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/matters-of-perspective-3-why-the-church-is-as-true-as-the-gospel/) - This essay by Eugene England, read here for Matters of Perspective by his son, Mark England, articulates better than any other writing a strongcase for how the way the LDS Church is organized on the local level with lay clergy and geographical boundaries serves fantastically as a “school of love.” England suggests that the brilliance
- [304: Mormon History and Lying](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/304-mormon-history-and-lying/) - On October 21st, Brian Whitney wrote a post for the "Worlds Without End" blog in which he offers a contextual framing of LDS Church history that begins with Joseph Smith’s early efforts to have all things related to the church recorded and that then moves through several periods and shifts in how history has been
- [305: Church Handbook Change Regarding LGBT Men and Women and their Children. Part 1—Thoughts on How to Move Forward with Faith and Hope](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/305-church-handbook-change-regarding-lgbt-men-and-women-and-their-children-part-1-thoughts-on-how-to-move-forward-with-faith-and-hope/) - On Thursday, November 5th, we learned of several new additions to the Church Handbook of Instructions, Volume 1, which guides members of stake presidencies and bishoprics in their duties and responsibilities. The substance of these policy changes is (1) that Latter-day Saint adults who are in a same-sex marriage, or cohabitating with a member of
- [306: Church Handbook Change Regarding LGBT Men and Women and their Children. Part 2—Why? Why Now? Analyses and Possibilities](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/306-church-handbook-change-regarding-lgbt-men-and-women-and-their-children-part-2-why-why-now-analyses-and-possibilities/) - In this second episode examining the new policies regarding LGBT women and men and children, Brad Kramer, Nancy Ross, and Rob Vox join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon for several rounds of speculation that tries to understand some of the possible reasons behind the changes. Applying insights from sociology, anthropology, and other fields of inquiry,
- [307: Church Handbook Change Regarding LGBT Men and Women and their Children. Part 3—“Yes, and . . .” Activism and Renewal in a Tragic World](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/307-church-handbook-change-regarding-lgbt-men-and-women-and-their-children-part-3-yes-and-activism-and-renewal-in-a-tragic-world/) - We all recognize that there is a significant distance between the "real" world we live in and the "ideal" one we’d love to see instantiated. Parker Palmer calls this space between real and ideal the "tragic gap." He uses "tragic" to denote the inevitability of this distance and to acknowledge that even the greatest person
- [310–311: Making Sense of the Research on Homosexuality—Parts 3 & 4: Social and Psychological Factors](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/310-311-making-sense-of-the-research-on-homosexuality-parts-3-4-social-and-psychological-factors/) - With the renewed conversation in Mormonism about homosexuality initiated by the November 6th policy changes, it has become clear that many Latter-day Saints have never really been exposed to the breadth of research conducted in the past several decades about the biological and social factors involved in human sexual development, attraction, and identity, including homosexual
- [312–313: The Positive Spiritual Effects of Disenchantment and Demythologizing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/312-313-the-positive-spiritual-effects-of-disenchantment-and-demythologizing/) - Throughout our life cycle, we are all called to reexamine the truths, values, beliefs, and stories that suggest key purposes for living and give meaning to the things we do. In most areas of life, when we see cracks in our understanding or problems in the way we do things we usually find somewhat gentle
- [314–315: Sex-positivity in Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/314-315-sex-positivity-in-mormonism/) - Mormonism, like most religions, has many teachings about sex and intimacy. But, like everything else, teachings interact with persons, each with her or his own temperaments and autobiographies. As a result, the same teaching can strike each of us differently. For some, messages about embodied Gods, male and female, is incredibly empowering, even a help
- [316: Reflections on the New Mormon Gender Survey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/316-reflections-on-the-new-mormon-gender-survey/) - A long-awaited survey of LDS attitudes toward gender relationships and women’s ordination has begun to yield intriguing snapshots of just where we are within Mormonism on these issues—with continued analysis yet to come. In this episode, survey team members Nancy Ross, Michael Nielsen, and Stephen Merino join Jana Riess and Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon
- [317: Is There Good News for Faith in Today’s Mormon Crises?—Part 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/317-is-there-good-news-for-faith-in-todays-mormon-crises-part-1/) - In his recent book, Planted: Belief and Belonging in an Age of Doubt, Patrick Q. Mason offers an optimistic vision for the future of Mormonism, even given the number of Latter-day Saints experiencing faith crisis. He points to as a bright sign the Church’s release of a dozen new Gospel Topics essays dealing with difficult
- [318: Are There Fresh and Productive Ways to View the New LGBT Policy/Revelation?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/318-are-there-fresh-and-productive-ways-to-view-the-new-lgbt-policyrevelation/) - For many of us, the discovery and confirmation in early November 2015 of a new Church policy regarding LGBT couples and their children have led to tremendous despair--pain refreshed again just two weeks ago, on January 10, 2016, as President Russell M. Nelson while speaking to a church-wide audience of Young Single Adults assured all
- [319: Is There Good News for Faith in Today’s Mormon Crises?—Part 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/319-is-there-good-news-for-faith-in-todays-mormon-crises-part-2/) - This episode is the second part of a co-released (with Gina Colvin and A Thoughtful Faith podcast) podcast discussion with Patrick Mason and Boyd Petersen based upon ideas contained in Patrick’s book, Planted: Belief and Belonging in an Age of Doubt. Whereas Part 1 covered discussion points found primarily in the book’s first five chapters,
- [320–321: Addiction and Recovery—Part 1: Personal, Family, and Spiritual Dynamics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/320-321-addiction-and-recovery-part-1-personal-family-and-spiritual-dynamics/) - In this two-part episode, the first in a Mormon Matters podcast series on the many dynamics of addiction and the processes of recovery, often including positive spiritual growth, Bill Turnbull, a missionary in the LDS Addiction Recovery Program, co-hosts with Dan Wotherspoon a discussion with Preston Dixon and Tyson Dixon, two brothers who are both recovering
- [322: How Does Apocalyptic Thinking Factor into the Recent LGBT Policy Change and Reactions to It?](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/322-how-does-apocalyptic-thinking-factor-into-the-recent-lgbt-policy-change-and-reactions-to-it/) - In the three months since the Church announced its new policy regarding LGBT persons and their children, we seem to increasingly encounter talk among LDS leaders and members that seems integrally tied to aspects of Christian and Mormon thinking about the Apocalyse: the end times prophesied to be proceeded by great calamities as well as
- [323–324: New/Old Wisdom from Mormonism and Other Traditions for Facing the End of the World](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/323-324-newold-wisdom-from-mormonism-and-other-traditions-for-facing-the-end-of-the-world/) - Charles Shiro Inouye has just written a fantastic book, The End of the World, Plan B: A Guide for the Future (Greg Kofford Books, 2016). In it, he demonstrates how the most popular ways of framing Apocalyptic narratives—as a violent and cataclysmic event that makes clear the triumph of justice in which the wicked are
- [325: Addiction and Recovery Series—Part 2: Effects on an Addict’s Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/325-addiction-and-recovery-series-part-2-effects-on-an-addicts-family/) - This episode contains a hopeful story, though one difficult to hear in all of its details. Ultimately the marriage of Christian and Kelle Smith has survived the horrible ordeal of Christian’s addictions to pain medication, and eventually to other drugs and methods he used to escape paralyzing anxieties. And, in many ways, their marriage is
- [326: Addiction and Recovery Series—Part 3: One Family’s Story of Overcoming Pornography Addiction and Its Negative Effects](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/326-addiction-and-recovery-series-part-3-one-familys-story-of-overcoming-pornography-addiction-and-its-negative-effects/) - This episode, the third in our Mormon Matters Addiction and Recovery series, features another hopeful story, though it takes us through some very dark times before focusing on the light and healing ultimately found. This story, told by Coby and Ashlynn Mitchell, and aided by series co-host Bill Turnbull, takes us through Coby’s twenty-plus year
- [329: Addiction and Recovery Series—Part 4: Being an Addict and Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/329-addiction-and-recovery-series-part-4-being-an-addict-and-mormon/) - This episode, the fourth in the Mormon Matters series on Addiction and Recovery, features the stories and insights of two wonderful people, James Cottrell and Bill Casper, whose journeys with addiction and recovery intersect in nearly every moment with their Mormonism. All guests in this series have been LDS, and what was just said above about
- [330: Mormonism’s Jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/330-mormonisms-jesus/) - John G. Turner’s recent book, The Mormon Jesus: A Biography (Harvard University Press, 2016) presents a wonderful overview of the various ways Mormon scripture, leaders, and lay members understand Jesus Christ—and how these views developed over time, and why. As a non-Mormon historian and scholar of religions, Turner approaches this subject in a way not
- [331: Reflections on Two Recent Talks and the Online Reactions They Generated](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/331-reflections-on-two-recent-talks-and-the-online-reactions-they-generated/) - Excerpts from two talks by prominent General Authorities (one by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, and the other by Elder Richard J. Maynes) have in the past two weeks generated a lot of buzz in certain online forums that many listeners to this program would be familiar with, most of it negative or sarcastic. The reactions
- [332: Mercy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/332-mercy/) - Mercy is a fundamental tenet of the Christian gospel and its descriptions of the attributes of God, and it certainly is a topic familiar to Latter-day Saints. But how often do we actually reflect upon it? Do we imagine it as simply a quality and an characteristic of God that we, too, should strive to
- [333: Mormonism and Future Generations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/333-mormonism-and-future-generations/) - In a wonderful new book, Future Mormon: Essays in Mormon Theology, Adam Miller sets his spirit and intellect loose on the important task of helping clear away debris and then suggesting some possible new framings for Mormonism that might appeal to coming generations. As he writes in the Introduction, “Every generation must live its own lives
- [334: Growing and Living a Fully Engaged Mormon Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/334-growing-and-living-a-fully-engaged-mormon-life/) - Once someone has begun to explore ideas and have experiences that are not outlined explicitly within the typical Mormon curriculum, it is often very difficult to find footing again within our own spirits, as well as among LDS family, friends, and communities. If one chooses to push through these difficult transition periods, however, many have
- [335: Hope](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/335-hope/) - In commenting about Hope, Patrick Mason writes: “The three great Christian virtues are faith, hope, and charity. The first and the third receive significant attention, but hope—like many middle children—sometimes gets lost in the shuffle” (Planted, 123). Mason is right. How often do we examine this important virtue/quality/gift/fruit? In this episode, Patrick Mason, Brian Hauglid,
- [336: The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/336-the-ghost-of-eternal-polygamy/) - In this episode, author Carol Lynn Pearson joins Mormon Matters host, Dan Wotherspoon, for a one-on-one conversation about her new and extremely powerful book, The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy: Haunting the Hearts and Heaven of Mormon Women and Men. In it, Carol Lynn embraces two roles: the first, the position that many have ascribed to
- [337: The Next Mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/337-the-next-mormons/) - Standout Mormon author, scholar, and commentator Jana Riess is working on her next book, which will focus on Mormonism's "Millennial" generation (those now between ages 18 and 35) and their spirituality, religiosity, views and attitudes toward aligning with institutions, and much, much more. It will be titled The Next Mormons. In service of that project,
- [338: Mormons and Humor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/338-mormons-and-humor/) - Are Mormons funny? Do we Mormons have a good sense of humor—in general, or, more importantly, when it focuses on ourselves? In introducing Mormonism to those who are outside the faith and attempting to share how the gospel and Mormon life make sense to or motivate its adherents, can a light-hearted, humorous approach be more effective than
- [Announcing A Mormon Matters Retreat:  Navigating a Healthy Mormon Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/announcing-a-mormon-matters-retreat-negotiating-a-healthy-mormon-journey-within-the-church/) - Listen to the following conversation about this upcoming Mormon Matters retreat and others that take place under the Open Stories Foundation umbrella and that will be announced soon! A MORMON MATTERS RETREAT! "Navigating a Healthy Mormon Journey" Led by Natasha Helfer Parker, LCMFT, CST, Marty Erickson, LMFT, Ph.D, and Dan Wotherspoon, Ph.D. 26 - 28
- [339-340: Mercy and the Atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/339-340-mercy-and-the-atonement/) - This episode (in two parts) is a continuation of an earlier discussion of Mercy (Episode 332, March 2016) but also very different, focusing this time on “mercy” as it functions for so many as a theological concept rather than the way it should: as something transformative in our spiritual lives. The conversation starts out a
- [341: Teachings about War in the Book of Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/341-teachings-about-war-in-the-book-of-mormon/) - As the LDS Sunday School Gospel Doctrine curriculum turns in coming weeks to the later chapters of the book of Alma and the stories they contain about Captain Moroni, the Stripling Warriors, along with various wars and war strategies, assassinations, and other accounts of events that unfolded between the Nephites and Lamanites, we are pleased
- [342: Mormon Women's Position and Organization Names and Titles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/342-mormon-womens-position-and-organization-names-and-titles/) - The Summer 2016 edition of the online journal SquareTwo features the results and a discussion of a recent poll of Mormon women about the ways that LDS women’s organizations are referred to, and about the names and titles of women’s groups, as well as women who are referred to primarily through their relationship to their
- [343: An Exciting Approach to Scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/343-an-exciting-approach-to-scripture/) - A new book edited by Julie M. Smith, As Iron Sharpens Iron: Listening to the Various Voices of Scripture, does something wonderful. It takes something we all "kind of" know--that not every verse of scripture fits together in perfect harmony with others; that every writer whose words eventually became "scripture" agrees with every other writer--and in
- [344: Dialogue at Fifty!—Part 1: History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/344-dialogue-at-fifty-part-1-history/) - Something wonderful with long-lasting effect on Mormonism began in 1966 with the publication of the inaugural issue of Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought. Beginning as a dream made into reality by five friends at Stanford University, Dialogue went on to become in the days before the Internet “the” go-to source for the best thinking
- [345: Dialogue at Fifty!--Part 2: Present and Future](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/345-dialogue-at-fifty-part-2-present-and-future/) - We are excited to continue our celebration of the 50thanniversary of Dialogue: A Journal of Mormon Thought through a conversation with its current editor, Boyd Jay Petersen, its immediate past editor, Kristine Haglund, and current Dialogue board member and one of the organizers of the upcoming Dialogue jubilee gala, Joanna Brooks. How is Dialogue doing in
- [346: Intimacy in Mormon Marriages](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/346-intimacy-in-mormon-marriages/) - Mormon theology, including temple covenants, along with pulpit and lesson rhetoric and cultural and community discourse place a strong emphasis on the family. It also focuses on our becoming as fully like God as we can, including perfecting the combination of strength and vulnerability, independence and relationality. In Mormon marriages, this means developing full intimacy
- [347-348: Challenging the "Addiction" Paradigm with Regard to Pornography](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/347-348-challenging-the-addiction-paradigm-with-regard-to-pornography/) - The past two weeks featured two opposing Op-Eds in the Salt Lake Tribune (here and here) focusing on the issue of pornography, and especially if an “addiction” model (“pornography is highly addicting”) is appropriate to be taught in high school settings. The impetus for the initial opinion piece was the propriety of allowing the group “Fight the
- [349: The Leaked Videos: A Church That Is Also a Corporation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/349-the-leaked-videos-a-church-that-is-also-a-corporation/) - On October 2nd 2016, the final day of the LDS Church's October General Conference, a dozen or so videos were leaked online that show the briefings of various topics given to the church's top leadership, and one of a general staff meeting of the Church History Department. All videos were from 2007 to 2012, and all were officially recorded
- [350: The LDS Church's New Mormon and Gay Website](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/350-the-lds-churchs-new-mormon-and-gay-website/) - On October 25, 2016, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a new website, "Mormon and Gay" (www.mormonandgay.lds.org) an update of its previous site articulating LDS positions on various aspects of same-sex attraction. What is the new site like? In what ways is it an improvement on the previous site and its messaging? Did the
- [Announcing a New Survey about LDS LGBT Policies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/announcing-a-new-survey-about-lds-lgbt-policies/) - Let your views be heard about current LDS policies and teachings about LGBT persons and issues! Two social psychologists, Michael Nielsen and David Wulff, have launched a survey with the hope of learning from all across the spectrum of belief and activity more about LDS understandings of and about LGBT Mormons and issues. This survey
- [351-352: "The Policy"—One Year Later](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/351-352-the-policy-one-year-later/) - On Thursday afternoon, November 5th, 2015, a leak of new directives regarding LGBT Latter-day Saints was made public, kicking off a tumultuous year within many Mormon circles. What came to be known informally as "The Policy" required stake leaders to excommunicate for "apostasy" any Latter-day Saints who were in same-sex marriages regardless of their belief level
- [353–354: Championing the "Addiction" Paradigm with Regard to Pornography/Sex Addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/353-354-championing-the-addiction-paradigm-with-regard-to-pornographysex-addiction/) - This two-part episode is a response to a panel of therapists and a neuroscientist who in an earlier episode (347–348) challenge the idea that pornography is physically addicting, suggesting instead that problematic pornography usage is a symptom of deeper issues and therefore the best therapeutic approaches focus less on pornography and more on uncovering these
- [355: Personal and Spiritual Renewal Following a Difficult Election Season](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/355-personal-and-spiritual-renewal-following-a-difficult-election-season/) - Many people are feeling beat-up emotionally and spiritually right now on the heels of such a difficult and ugly election season. Regardless of whether “our” preferred candidate won or not, the election campaign generated great divisiveness, often causing breakdowns in relationships with friends and loved ones—as well as general pessimism over the realization of just how divided
- [356–357: (Encore) A Christmas Primer: Exploring the Nativity in Scripture, Legend, History, and Hearts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/356-357-encore-a-christmas-primer-exploring-the-nativity-in-scripture-legend-history-and-hearts/) - This is an encore presentation of a December 2011 podcast episode examining the Christmas story as it traditionally gets told—looking closely at what the scriptures actually say and do not say about the birth of Christ and all the pieces of this familiar story. For instance, how do the Matthew and Luke accounts differ—even irreconcilably?
- [358–359: Improving Our Conversations about Important and Emotional Topics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/358-359-improving-our-conversations-about-important-and-emotional-topics/) - How many times have we inadvertently offended a person or group of persons because we simply aren’t thinking about how the things we say might strike them? Because we are in a hurry? Because we are writing or speaking while our emotions are high? Because we signal that we care less about them than we
- [360: Faith and Doubt: Balancing Truth, Goodness, and Beauty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/360-faith-and-doubt-balancing-truth-goodness-and-beauty/) - Doubting our long-held views of the world, especially if firm faith positions are part of it, is a high stakes matter. Not only do enter into a new relationship with one’s own whole way of thinking, which is stressful enough, but family dynamics and friendships and our social groups most often also begin to feel
- [361: Joy Amidst Sadness: Kim Puzey's Journey to Peace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/360-joy-amidst-sadness-kim-puzeys-journey-to-peace/) - This episode continues a conversation with one of the panelists from the previous installment, Kim B Puzey. Picking up where we left off in his life story, it explores with Kim more about how he joyfully orients toward Spirit and what is most valuable even as his life has been full of struggle and pain, such as the
- [362: Taking Jesus Seriously](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/362-taking-jesus-seriously/) - Meet in this podcast two wonderful, active Latter-day Saints who are "alive in Christ," Jesus focused, and modeling in their wards and circles a robust faith in Jesus Christ and the transformative power of the Atonement in ways that stretch far beyond forgiveness of one's sins. They are on engagement paths that both thrill and challenge them
- [363–364: Mormonism's Wonderful, Vulnerable God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/363-364-mormonisms-wonderful-vulnerable-god/) - For many who find themselves in the middle of a faith crisis, casting about for new footing and ways of orienting to life and others, one of largest stumbling blocks is often their view of God. All of a sudden, as they find themselves far more aware of the confusion that marks life on earth,
- [365: More on the Mormon God (with help from Process Theology)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/365-more-on-the-mormon-god-with-help-from-process-theology/) - In somewhat of a continuation of our previous episodes (363 & 364), Jim McLachlan and Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon are joined by David Ray Griffin, a world-renowned philosopher and theologian specializing in process theology. Griffin has recently published a new book, God Exists But Gawd Does Not: From Evil to Atheism to Fine-Tuning, in which lays out the powerful the arguments against the
- [366: Sin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/366-sin/) - Because it’s so central to Christianity, and because of the concerns so many have about “salvation,” the concept of “sin” deserves fresh consideration. What does scripture say about it? Does that match up with how it is often thought and spoken about within Mormonism? How have our views of it been affected by readings of
- [367–368: Faith within a Mormonism that Points Beyond Itself](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/367-368-faith-within-a-mormonism-that-points-beyond-itself/) - We all sort of "know" but still very often forget that God and religious and spiritual truths are couched in symbols, language, propositions, metaphors, stories, and ritual actions, meaning that, by definition, a religion's primary languages themselves are not meant to be taken literally. Words and stories and teachings are not the things in themselves
- [369–370: Helping Children Plant Lasting Seeds of Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/369-370-helping-children-plant-lasting-seeds-of-faith/) - Every person is different, and this is completely true with children, as well. Often we as parents will assume our children are picking up ideas, teachings, and various behavioral cues from us, our families, and our church in the way we hope they are, but this certainly isn't always true. And certain children will be
- [371: New Perspectives on Joseph Smith and Translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/371-new-perspectives-on-joseph-smith-and-translation/) - As Richard Bushman mentions in this podcast episode, one of the very first things Joseph Smith did in announcing himself to the world was to take on the title of "translator." What an audacious thing, especially as Mormonism associates translation with the gift of seership, even proclaiming that "a seer is greater than a prophet"
- [372: Jesus’ Abba: The God Who Has Not Failed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/372-jesus-abba-the-god-who-has-not-failed/) - John B. Cobb is one of the world's most renowned theologians and philosophers, noted especially for his Christological pluralism and work across many disciplines, and lately in major ways in ecological sustainability circles. His writing and thinking are marvelously clear and powerful, continuing even today at age 92. We are thrilled that just last week
- [373–377: (Encore) An Easter Primer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/373-377-encore-an-easter-primer/) - Encore presentation of a great discussion of all things Easter. First released 12 March 2013. Enjoy the old bumpers and their music! With a forty-day Lenten season that flows to a conclusion in Holy Week and its beautiful rituals, for many Christians, Easter (even more than Christmas) marks the spiritual high point of the year.
- [378: Engaging Constructively with General Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/378-engaging-constructively-with-general-conference/) - The April 2017 General Conference season is upon us. Having started last weekend on March 25th with the Women's session, it continues April 1st and 2nd with four general and one priesthood session. For many who have undergone (or are undergoing) a shift of faith, engaging with general conference can sometimes be a difficult experience.
- [382–383: The Living Nature of Mormon Covenants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/382-383-the-living-nature-of-mormon-covenants/) - Covenanting is a huge feature of Mormon theology and group life. Beginning at age eight with baptism, and extending through the temple endowment and sealing rites, Latter-day Saints make a lot of covenants. Sundays build into the sacrament ritual the chance to "renew" the covenants one has made. For many Mormons, making these covenants are
- [384–385: Gaining Spiritual Confidence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/384-385-gaining-spiritual-confidence/) - All religions point adherents toward gaining knowledge and insights for themselves through their own spiritual dives. Religious cultures, however, often (overtly but more often subtly) put a premium upon group cohesion, following rules and counsel from leaders or elders, staying on the well-worn path, and so forth. These cultures encourage one to rise up to
- [386: Announcing a July 2017 Mormon Matters Retreat!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/386-announcing-a-july-2017-mormon-matters-retreat/) - A MORMON MATTERS RETREAT! “Understanding and Navigating Healthy Perspectives and Journeys within Mormonism” Led by Dan Wotherspoon, Ph.D. Natasha Helfer Parker, LCMFT, CST, Marty Erickson, Ph.D., LMFT 14 – 16 JULY 2017, SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH _____ Many of us find ourselves a bit outside the Mormon norm but still feel committed to continue our journeys
- [387: LDS Church Changes to Its Scouting Program](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/387-lds-church-changes-to-its-scouting-program/) - On May 11, 2017, the LDS Church announced it is dropping Varsity and Venturer Scouts as the primary program for its U.S. and Canadian young men ages 14–18 effective at the end of the 2017 calendar year. In its place, the Church is asking leaders of these groups to now enact the guidelines and suggestions
- [388–389: Our Brains and Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/388-389-our-brains-and-faith/) - Our faith lives, including how we orient toward the world, God/Spirit (or whatever we consider the highest center(s) of value and power), and ourselves, are fed by many things. Some we can easily identify. Others—perhaps the majority, and especially the ones that are wired into various neural pathways—are hidden, unconsciously held, and only show themselves
- [390–392: Mormon Women Gaining Spiritual Confidence within a Patriarchal Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/390-392-mormon-women-gaining-spiritual-confidence-within-a-patriarchal-church/) - The title of this three-part episode says quite a bit about it. Several weeks ago, Mormon Matters released a conversation, “Gaining Spiritual Confidence,” featuring three men sharing their journeys toward and insights about a strong sense of their own spiritual connection with God/Spirit. It was terrific—but as a listener pointed out, if featured three men and wondered how the
- [395: Spiritual Mentors and Heroes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/395-spiritual-mentors-and-heroes/) - Most of us have someone special in our lives, or with whom we've become acquainted through reading or listening to, whose spiritual insights, wisdom, compassion, and ways of carrying themselves and meeting the world stand out for us. Some will truly be spiritual mentors for us, others more like heroes. But no matter if it
- [396–397: Spiritual Journeys Outside of Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/396-397-spiritual-journeys-outside-of-mormonism/) - This episode features two wonderful teachers, pastors, scholars, and clergy from non-Mormon faith traditions sharing their own spiritual journeys and the ways that God has moved in them throughout their lives and ministries. Neither shies away from sharing about their most difficult moments, the pain and confusion, the depression, and many other lonely and hopeless
- [400: "Yep, We're Fringe . . . and So Are You!"— Rejecting Toxic "Acceptability" Scripts Sunstone Style!](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/400-yep-were-fringe-and-so-are-you-rejecting-toxic-acceptability-scripts-sunstone-style/) - The 2017 Salt Lake Sunstone Symposium convenes in two weeks (July 26–29), and this episode introduces some of its highlights. But far more than just that, two of Sunstone's leaders—Lindsay Hansen Park, and Sunstone magazine editor Stephen Carter—speak candidly about the new directions Sunstone has been moving in lately, and the new identity it is embracing. And it is
- [401–402: The Uncontrolling Love of God—Talking Theology and Community, and Meeting a Fellow Traveler in Thomas Jay Oord](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/401-402-the-uncontrolling-love-of-god-talking-theology-and-community-and-meeting-a-fellow-traveler-in-thomas-jay-oord/) - This two-part episode features a wonderful conversation with Thomas Jay Oord, an author, teacher, theologian, and elder in the Church of the Nazarene. Jim McLachlan and Brittney Hartley join Mormon Matters host Dan Wotherspoon in dialogue with Oord, exploring various ways he views God and us as human beings that have great similarities with Mormon
- [403–406: Revelations of Joseph Smith and Others: A Naturalistic Hypothesis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/403-406-revelations-of-joseph-smith-and-others-a-naturalistic-hypothesis/) - In her very important new book, Revelatory Events: Three Case Studies of the Emergence of New Spiritual Paths, historian and religion scholar Ann Taves offers a naturalistic framing for revelation, in this case extending it to the complex issue of founding figures of a religion or spiritual communities and their close followers believing the sources of the revelations were outside of themselves. In the three
- [407-409: The Wilderness of Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/407-409-the-wilderness-of-faith/) - This three-part episode features Kim Puzey and Lisa Scott, two brilliant and insightful people who are deeply familiar with both wilderness living and faith journeying. Drawing on their backgrounds as guides for wilderness experiences (some chosen by participants, while others were offered as options for adjudicated youth who otherwise would have been sent to jail), Kim and Lisa share lessons
- [410–411: (Encore) Theologies of Nature: Mormon Resources for Thinking about Natural Disasters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/410-411-theologies-of-nature-mormon-resources-for-thinking-about-natural-disasters/) - This is an encore presentation of a podcast conversation we had in April 2011 on the heels of the then-recent Japanese earthquakes and tsunamis. With Hurricane Harvey currently devastating Houston and surrounding areas, it's as timely now as it was then. Are there theologically and pragmatically healthy discussions to be had within Mormonism about nature,
- [413: The New Plan for Relief Society and Adult Priesthood Meetings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/413-the-new-plan-for-relief-society-and-adult-priesthood-meetings/) - On 25 August, the Church announced a new plan for Relief Society and Priesthood meetings to begin January 2018. Instead of focusing two weeks each month on lessons drawn from a teachings of the prophets manual (this year studying President Gordon B. Hinckley), those two weeks will focus on recent conference addresses, but will allow
- [414: (Encore) Engaging Constructively with General Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/414-encore-engaging-constructively-with-general-conference/) - The October 2017 General Conference season is upon us. Having started last weekend with the Women's session, it continues September 30th and October 1st with four general and one priesthood session. For many who have undergone (or are undergoing) a shift of faith, engaging with general conference can sometimes be a difficult experience. Because of new perspectives
- [415: "That We May Be One": A Gay Mormon's Perspective on Faith and Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/415-that-we-may-be-one-a-gay-mormons-perspective-on-faith-and-family/) - In his new book, That We May Be One: A Gay Mormon's Perspective on Faith and Family (Published by Deseret Book), Tom Christofferson shares his story of coming to terms with being gay, leaving Mormonism for several decades, and then deciding to reunite with his beloved faith community. Along the way, it tells of his remarkable
- [416–417: Assessing the History and Value of Mormon Apologetics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/416-417-assessing-the-history-and-value-of-mormon-apologetics/) - Doing "apologetics," which means to "speak in defense," has been a longstanding tradition within Christianity, including Mormonism. Some forms of apologetics are often labeled "negative," meaning the attempt by those writing is foremost to take on the arguments of critics. "Positive" apologetics, on the other hand, is characterized as efforts to shore up some aspect
- [418–419: Exploring the Messages in and Responses to Elder Dallin H. Oaks's Recent General Conference Talk](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/418-419-exploring-the-messages-in-and-responses-to-elder-dallin-h-oakss-recent-general-conference-talk/) - During the recent October 2017 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Council of Twelve Apostles gave a talk titled, "The Plan and the Proclamation." In it, he framed some of the current trends and laws of today's society as coming from "the world," while
- [421–423: Examining Mormon Apologetics, Neo-Apologetics, and Informational Obligations to Church Members and Investigators](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/421-423-examining-mormon-apologetics-neo-apologetics-and-informational-obligations-to-church-members-and-investigators/) - In this, the second installment in a series of co-hosted and co-released shows related to Mormon Apologetics, Mormon Matters and Mormon Stories hosts Dan Wotherspoon and John Dehlin interview and engage with two wonderful, bright, and articulate voices in Mormon Studies: Loyd Isao Ericson, from Greg Kofford Books and co-editor of the volume Perspectives in
- [424-426: Celebrating the Different Spiritualities in the Two Halves of Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/424-426-celebrating-the-different-spiritualities-in-the-two-halves-of-life/) - The four people on this three-part podcast episode love Richard Rohr's book, Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life. If you find yourself experiencing a faith crisis or in some way are actively feeling called to reexamine and make peace with or in some way better integrate within your heart and mind
- [381: Why Ritual “Makes Sense”](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/381-why-ritual-makes-sense/) - Ritual is strange—or so it seems to our rational minds—yet, strangely, for many of us who participate in these often highly stylized and repetitive actions, we feel better afterward. Why is this so? Is there a method to ritual's madness that helps explain this phenomena? I think so. In a departure from the usual Mormon
- [420: (Encore) The Abuse and Forgiveness Dilemma](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item/420-encore-the-abuse-and-forgiveness-dilemma/) - The sexual assault and abuse scandals rocking Hollywood these days, along with the “Me, too” campaign that is encouraging victims of unwanted or abusive sexual advances to speak up make this a prime moment to re-release one of Mormon Matters podcast’s most powerful episodes. Below is a description of the episode. The April 2012 General

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- [historicity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/historicity/)
- [gay](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/gay/)
- [politics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/politics/)
- [mike huckabee](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/mike-huckabee/)
- [Asides](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/asides/)
- [news](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/news/)
- [introductions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/introductions/)
- [race](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/race/)
- [blacks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/blacks/)
- [racism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/racism/)
- [missionary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/missionary/)
- [theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/theology/)
- [Folklore](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/folklore/)
- [Culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/culture/)
- [music](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/music/)
- [BYU](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/byu/)
- [Bible](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/bible/)
- [millet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/millet/)
- [community of christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/community-of-christ/)
- [RLDS](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/rlds/)
- [questioning](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/questioning/)
- [doubt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/doubt/)
- [missions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/missions/)
- [christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/christ/)
- [christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/christianity/)
- [evangelicals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/evangelicals/)
- [Government](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/government/)
- [baseball](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/baseball/)
- [athletics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/athletics/)
- [sports](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/sports/)
- [curiosity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/curiosity/)
- [prophets](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/prophets/)
- [scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/scripture/)
- [temple](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/temple/)
- [Humor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/humor/)
- [Bickertonites](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/bickertonites/)
- [jehovahs witnesses](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/jehovahs-witnesses/)
- [geography](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/geography/)
- [Anti-Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/anti-mormon/)
- [babies and bathwater](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/babies-and-bathwater/)
- [surviving](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/surviving/)
- [new order mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/new-order-mormon/)
- [Discrimination](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/discrimination/)
- [eschatoloty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/eschatoloty/)
- [Word of Wisdom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/word-of-wisdom/)
- [plan of salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/plan-of-salvation/)
- [restoration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/restoration/)
- [inter-faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/inter-faith/)
- [General Authorities](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/general-authorities/)
- [succession](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/succession/)
- [funny](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/funny/)
- [media manipulation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/media-manipulation/)
- [church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/church/)
- [Peace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/peace/)
- [liberal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/liberal/)
- [sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/sexuality/)
- [Trinity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/trinity/)
- [depression](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/depression/)
- [Utah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/utah/)
- [President Monson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/president-monson/)
- [God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/god/)
- [Jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/jesus/)
- [obedience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/obedience/)
- [Nephi](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/nephi/)
- [death](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/death/)
- [science](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/science/)
- [baptism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/baptism/)
- [sacrament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/sacrament/)
- [psychometrics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/psychometrics/)
- [eternity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/eternity/)
- [Charity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/charity/)
- [Money](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/money/)
- [General Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/general-conference/)
- [mercy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/mercy/)
- [general](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/general/)
- [conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/conference/)
- [sacrament meeting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/sacrament-meeting/)
- [Bloggernacle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/bloggernacle/)
- [children](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/children/)
- [television](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/television/)
- [First Amendment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/first-amendment/)
- [Leaders](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/leaders/)
- [FLDS](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/flds/)
- [abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/abuse/)
- [Devil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/devil/)
- [war](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/war/)
- [love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/love/)
- [Happiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/happiness/)
- [visions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/visions/)
- [apostles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/apostles/)
- [prayer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/prayer/)
- [salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/salvation/)
- [grace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/grace/)
- [repentance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/repentance/)
- [doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/doctrine/)
- [seminary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/seminary/)
- [revelation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/revelation/)
- [dreams](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/dreams/)
- [spirituality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/spirituality/)
- [Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/priesthood/)
- [Logic](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/logic/)
- [parables](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/parables/)
- [Good Samaritan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/good-samaritan/)
- [reverence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/reverence/)
- [apostasy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/apostasy/)
- [Sermon on the Mount](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/sermon-on-the-mount/)
- [spiritual progression](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/spiritual-progression/)
- [families](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/families/)
- [art](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/art/)
- [service](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/service/)
- [diversity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/diversity/)
- [fear](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/fear/)
- [civil disobedience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/civil-disobedience/)
- [sabbath](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/sabbath/)
- [Holy Ghost](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/holy-ghost/)
- [excommunication](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/excommunication/)
- [violence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/violence/)
- [resignation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/resignation/)
- [media](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/media/)
- [primary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/primary/)
- [pornography](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/pornography/)
- [adultery](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/adultery/)
- [education](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/education/)
- [memory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/memory/)
- [5CT](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/5ct/)
- [correlation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/correlation/)
- [meetings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/meetings/)
- [burdens](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/burdens/)
- [cross](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/cross/)
- [mysticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/mysticism/)
- [resolutions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/resolutions/)
- [meekness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/meekness/)
- [Beatitudes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/beatitudes/)
- [ordinances](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/ordinances/)
- [symbols](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/symbols/)
- [righteousness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/righteousness/)
- [accountability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/accountability/)
- [environment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/environment/)
- [patriarchy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/patriarchy/)
- [home teaching](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/home-teaching/)
- [Scriptural translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/scriptural-translation/)
- [Niblets](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/niblets/)
- [Resurrection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/resurrection/)
- [Early Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/early-christianity/)
- [pacifism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/pacifism/)
- [virgin birth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/virgin-birth/)
- [foreordination](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/foreordination/)
- [creation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/creation/)
- [LDS lessons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/lds-lessons/)
- [Patriarchal Blessing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/patriarchal-blessing/)
- [metaphor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/metaphor/)
- [Holocaust](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/holocaust/)
- [Jews](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/jews/)
- [conferences and symposia](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/conferences-and-symposia/)
- [social justice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/social-justice/)
- [Easter](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/easter/)
- [time management](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/time-management/)
- [stewardship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/stewardship/)
- [Mother's Day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/money/mothers-day-money/)
- [Blood Atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/blood-atonement/)
- [journals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/journals/)
- [Restoration Groups](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/restoration-groups/)
- [Islam/Muslim](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/islammuslim/)
- [Retreat](https://www.mormonmatters.org/category/retreat/)

## Tags

- [preach my gospel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/preach-my-gospel/)
- [leadership](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/leadership/)
- [Nicene Creed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nicene-creed/)
- [Creeds](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/creeds/)
- [Nicaea Council](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nicaea-council/)
- [Catholic Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/catholic-church/)
- [Arius](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/arius/)
- [Arian Controversy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/arian-controversy/)
- [Athanasius](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/athanasius/)
- [Non-violence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/non-violence/)
- [Iraq War](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/iraq-war/)
- [Gandhi](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gandhi/)
- [New Jerusalem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/new-jerusalem/)
- [Joseph Smith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/joseph-smith/)
- [Creeds of Christendom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/creeds-of-christendom/)
- [creedless](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/creedless/)
- [Mormon Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-church/)
- [truth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/truth/)
- [Mormon Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-doctrine/)
- [scriptural truths](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/scriptural-truths/)
- [Consumerism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/consumerism/)
- [Christians](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/christians/)
- [Mormons are Christians](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormons-are-christians/)
- [UVSC](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/uvsc/)
- [institute](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/institute/)
- [criticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/criticism/)
- [exploration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/exploration/)
- [missionary work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/missionary-work/)
- [Human rights](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/human-rights/)
- [Gay rights](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gay-rights/)
- [ethnicity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ethnicity/)
- [mormon culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-culture/)
- [lds church growth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lds-church-growth/)
- [school](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/school/)
- [honor code](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/honor-code/)
- [civil rights](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/civil-rights/)
- [scriptures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/scriptures/)
- [family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/family/)
- [economy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/economy/)
- [food](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/food/)
- [blessing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/blessing/)
- [disaffection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/disaffection/)
- [State](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/state/)
- [Nature of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nature-of-god/)
- [Orthodox Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/orthodox-christianity/)
- [Anti-War](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/anti-war/)
- [Protest](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/protest/)
- [Catholic](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/catholic/)
- [Sin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sin/)
- [Globalisation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/globalisation/)
- [21st Century](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/21st-century/)
- [Sex](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sex/)
- [President Benson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/president-benson/)
- [Ezra Taft Benson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ezra-taft-benson/)
- [Dalin H Oaks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dalin-h-oaks/)
- [Protestants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/protestants/)
- [Drug Abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/drug-abuse/)
- [Evolution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/evolution/)
- [psychology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/psychology/)
- [masturbation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/masturbation/)
- [Roadshow](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/roadshow/)
- [non-mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/non-mormons/)
- [Murder](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/murder/)
- [Forgiveness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/forgiveness/)
- [Christlike](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/christlike/)
- [Banking](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/banking/)
- [Morality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/morality/)
- [superheroes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/superheroes/)
- [Transgender](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/transgender/)
- [merit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/merit/)
- [influence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/influence/)
- [works](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/works/)
- [actions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/actions/)
- [justice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/justice/)
- [Mormon Tabernacle Choir](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-tabernacle-choir/)
- [worship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/worship/)
- [Navajo](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/navajo/)
- [travel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/travel/)
- [american indians](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/american-indians/)
- [New Mexico](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/new-mexico/)
- [Eugene England](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eugene-england/)
- [worthiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/worthiness/)
- [commandments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/commandments/)
- [ex-Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ex-mormon/)
- [Kirtland](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kirtland/)
- [parents](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/parents/)
- [Muslim](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/muslim/)
- [Apostle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/apostle/)
- [Surpreme Court](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/surpreme-court/)
- [law](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/law/)
- [ACLU](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/aclu/)
- [Gentiles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gentiles/)
- [moral](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/moral/)
- [relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/relationships/)
- [etiquette](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/etiquette/)
- [Blogernacle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/blogernacle/)
- [evil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/evil/)
- [capitalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/capitalism/)
- [donations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/donations/)
- [Jewish](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jewish/)
- [Monotheism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/monotheism/)
- [Polytheism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/polytheism/)
- [Muslism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/muslism/)
- [Islam](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/islam/)
- [Damnation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/damnation/)
- [Weeping](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/weeping/)
- [Wailing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/wailing/)
- [Gnashing of Teeth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gnashing-of-teeth/)
- [Free Agency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/free-agency/)
- [Sunstone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sunstone/)
- [world religions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/world-religions/)
- [teachers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/teachers/)
- [miracle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/miracle/)
- [providence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/providence/)
- [fatalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fatalism/)
- [First Vision](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/first-vision/)
- [ancestors](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ancestors/)
- [age](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/age/)
- [geriatrics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/geriatrics/)
- [meaning](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/meaning/)
- [Jesus Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jesus-christ/)
- [Mormon History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-history/)
- [Shopping](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/shopping/)
- [Materialism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/materialism/)
- [Greed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/greed/)
- [Wealth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/wealth/)
- [Sacrifice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sacrifice/)
- [prophecy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prophecy/)
- [second coming](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/second-coming/)
- [controversy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/controversy/)
- [conversion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/conversion/)
- [change of heart](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/change-of-heart/)
- [Moroni](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/moroni/)
- [angels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/angels/)
- [gold plates](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gold-plates/)
- [nature](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nature/)
- [interpretation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/interpretation/)
- [translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/translation/)
- [seerstone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/seerstone/)
- [voting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/voting/)
- [same-sex marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/same-sex-marriage/)
- [Old Testament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/old-testament/)
- [communication](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/communication/)
- [public relations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/public-relations/)
- [brand](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/brand/)
- [image](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/image/)
- [profanity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/profanity/)
- [abortion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/abortion/)
- [legislation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/legislation/)
- [Elijah Able](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/elijah-able/)
- [Green Flake](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/green-flake/)
- [1978](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/1978/)
- [Jane Manning James](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jane-manning-james/)
- [pride](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pride/)
- [Paul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/paul/)
- [fault-finding](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fault-finding/)
- [genealogy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/genealogy/)
- [genetics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/genetics/)
- [new age](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/new-age/)
- [brainwash](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/brainwash/)
- [torture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/torture/)
- [terror](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/terror/)
- [child soldier](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/child-soldier/)
- [age of accountability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/age-of-accountability/)
- [age limits](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/age-limits/)
- [teenagers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/teenagers/)
- [adults](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/adults/)
- [gender](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gender/)
- [Proclamation on the Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/proclamation-on-the-family/)
- [priestcraft](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/priestcraft/)
- [living allowance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/living-allowance/)
- [Craig Blomberg](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/craig-blomberg/)
- [Reason](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/reason/)
- [Internet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/internet/)
- [Fellowship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fellowship/)
- [Intellectual Openness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intellectual-openness/)
- [Praise](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/praise/)
- [Glory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/glory/)
- [relief society](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/relief-society/)
- [lesson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lesson/)
- [Momron culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/momron-culture/)
- [familiies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/familiies/)
- [parenting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/parenting/)
- [renaissance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/renaissance/)
- [missionaries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/missionaries/)
- [Belief](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/belief/)
- [Santa Claus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/santa-claus/)
- [analogies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/analogies/)
- [understanding](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/understanding/)
- [eternal progression](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eternal-progression/)
- [theosis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/theosis/)
- [king follett](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/king-follett/)
- [holiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/holiness/)
- [principles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/principles/)
- [unity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/unity/)
- [conservative](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/conservative/)
- [loyalty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/loyalty/)
- [urim & thummim](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/urim-thummim/)
- [apocalypse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/apocalypse/)
- [millenium](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/millenium/)
- [Prophet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prophet/)
- [pioneer day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pioneer-day/)
- [ralph](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ralph/)
- [nader](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nader/)
- [tolerance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/tolerance/)
- [Ritual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ritual/)
- [Zion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/zion/)
- [purification](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/purification/)
- [Israel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/israel/)
- [Jackson County](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jackson-county/)
- [activity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/activity/)
- [friends](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/friends/)
- [Mormon Studies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-studies/)
- [LDS culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lds-culture/)
- [prosperity theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prosperity-theology/)
- [fundraising](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fundraising/)
- [suicide](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/suicide/)
- [LDS History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lds-history/)
- [Eight Witnesses](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eight-witnesses/)
- [Political Correctness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/political-correctness/)
- [religious tolerance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/religious-tolerance/)
- [doug pinnick](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/doug-pinnick/)
- [king's X](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kings-x/)
- [dissent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dissent/)
- [Alma 36](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/alma-36/)
- [Chiasmus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/chiasmus/)
- [friendship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/friendship/)
- [quiz](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/quiz/)
- [mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormonism/)
- [academia](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/academia/)
- [power](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/power/)
- [intellectual freedom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intellectual-freedom/)
- [body image](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/body-image/)
- [anorexia](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/anorexia/)
- [Saturday's Warrior](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/saturdays-warrior/)
- [My Turn On Earth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/my-turn-on-earth/)
- [plays](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/plays/)
- [bigotry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bigotry/)
- [prejudice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prejudice/)
- [intelligence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intelligence/)
- [fos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fos/)
- [nature of man](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nature-of-man/)
- [philosophy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/philosophy/)
- [postmodernism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/postmodernism/)
- [testimony meeting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/testimony-meeting/)
- [editing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/editing/)
- [comics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/comics/)
- [superhero](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/superhero/)
- [knowledge](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/knowledge/)
- [presidential debate](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/presidential-debate/)
- [McCain](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mccain/)
- [Obama](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/obama/)
- [inquiry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/inquiry/)
- [curriculum](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/curriculum/)
- [douglas adams](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/douglas-adams/)
- [mormon artist](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-artist/)
- [Mormon Renaissance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-renaissance/)
- [James Goldberg](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/james-goldberg/)
- [Young Sim](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/young-sim/)
- [Respect Me](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/respect-me/)
- [hymns](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hymns/)
- [primary songs](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/primary-songs/)
- [hymnal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hymnal/)
- [songs](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/songs/)
- [hymnbook](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hymnbook/)
- [exalatation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/exalatation/)
- [Sidney Rigdon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sidney-rigdon/)
- [D&C 76](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dc-76/)
- [three degrees of glory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/three-degrees-of-glory/)
- [Modalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/modalism/)
- [Swedenborg](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/swedenborg/)
- [pontius pilate](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pontius-pilate/)
- [judgment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/judgment/)
- [hymn](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hymn/)
- [health](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/health/)
- [equality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/equality/)
- [motherhood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/motherhood/)
- [literature](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/literature/)
- [authors](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/authors/)
- [church history](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/church-history/)
- [interfaith dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/interfaith-dialogue/)
- [Protestantism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/protestantism/)
- [Egyptology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/egyptology/)
- [suffering](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/suffering/)
- [persecution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/persecution/)
- [Karpmann triangle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/karpmann-triangle/)
- [karpman triangle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/karpman-triangle/)
- [drama triangle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/drama-triangle/)
- [atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/atonement/)
- [Utah War](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/utah-war/)
- [pragmatism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pragmatism/)
- [progressivism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/progressivism/)
- [naturalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/naturalism/)
- [teaching](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/teaching/)
- [sunday school](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sunday-school/)
- [narrative](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/narrative/)
- [villains](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/villains/)
- [scholarship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/scholarship/)
- [Mountain Meadows](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mountain-meadows/)
- [Emma Smith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/emma-smith/)
- [Sunday](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sunday/)
- [letters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/letters/)
- [prop 8](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prop-8/)
- [The Black Swan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/the-black-swan/)
- [garments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/garments/)
- [secular humanism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/secular-humanism/)
- [atheism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/atheism/)
- [Twilight](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/twilight/)
- [censorship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/censorship/)
- [Puritan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/puritan/)
- [covenant](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/covenant/)
- [Richard G. Scott](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/richard-g-scott/)
- [personal revelation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/personal-revelation/)
- [conformity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/conformity/)
- [nativity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nativity/)
- [pundit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pundit/)
- [Christmas music](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/christmas-music/)
- [Creedal Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/creedal-christianity/)
- [orson scott card](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/orson-scott-card/)
- [EFY music](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/efy-music/)
- [David Lee Roth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/david-lee-roth/)
- [Yellowcard](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/yellowcard/)
- [Dashboard Confessional](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dashboard-confessional/)
- [genocide](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/genocide/)
- [authority](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/authority/)
- [Middle East](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/middle-east/)
- [journalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/journalism/)
- [FARMS](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/farms/)
- [male nipples](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/male-nipples/)
- [nipple](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nipple/)
- [breastfeeding](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/breastfeeding/)
- [facebook](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/facebook/)
- [Victorian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/victorian/)
- [plane crashes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/plane-crashes/)
- [Outliers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/outliers/)
- [Malcolm Gladwell](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/malcolm-gladwell/)
- [Korean Air](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/korean-air/)
- [deference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/deference/)
- [power distance index](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/power-distance-index/)
- [pdi](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pdi/)
- [caution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/caution/)
- [compassion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/compassion/)
- [motivation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/motivation/)
- [Jonathan Haidt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jonathan-haidt/)
- [Moral foundations theory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/moral-foundations-theory/)
- [ingroup/loyalty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ingrouployalty/)
- [ethics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ethics/)
- [liberal vs. conservative](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/liberal-vs-conservative/)
- [celibacy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/celibacy/)
- [false doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/false-doctrine/)
- [paintings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/paintings/)
- [simon dewey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/simon-dewey/)
- [greg olsen](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/greg-olsen/)
- [black jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/black-jesus/)
- [Baha'i](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bahai/)
- [Alevi](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/alevi/)
- [Eastern Orthodoxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eastern-orthodoxy/)
- [creed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/creed/)
- [Articles of Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/articles-of-faith/)
- [study](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/study/)
- [oliver cowdery](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/oliver-cowdery/)
- [Doctrine & Covenants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/doctrine-covenants/)
- [Gospel Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gospel-doctrine/)
- [imperfection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/imperfection/)
- [weakness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/weakness/)
- [tradition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/tradition/)
- [parenthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/parenthood/)
- [divining rods](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/divining-rods/)
- [seer stone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/seer-stone/)
- [rod of Aaron](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/rod-of-aaron/)
- [true north](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/true-north/)
- [direction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/direction/)
- [epistomology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/epistomology/)
- [dentist](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dentist/)
- [dentistry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dentistry/)
- [godhead](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/godhead/)
- [heavenly father](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/heavenly-father/)
- [former mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/former-mormon/)
- [every member a missionary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/every-member-a-missionary/)
- [storytelling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/storytelling/)
- [myth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/myth/)
- [themes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/themes/)
- [mental health](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mental-health/)
- [Del Parsons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/del-parsons/)
- [Jesus pictures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jesus-pictures/)
- [Brigham Young](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/brigham-young/)
- [vision](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/vision/)
- [task-oriented](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/task-oriented/)
- [research](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/research/)
- [alliances](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/alliances/)
- [coalitions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/coalitions/)
- [religious right](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/religious-right/)
- [change](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/change/)
- [Tom Hanks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/tom-hanks/)
- [Big Love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/big-love/)
- [SSM](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ssm/)
- [Bruce R. McConkie](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bruce-r-mcconkie/)
- [canon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/canon/)
- [illness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/illness/)
- [healing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/healing/)
- [consecration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/consecration/)
- [bishops](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bishops/)
- [wards](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/wards/)
- [complaint](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/complaint/)
- [shoot the messenger](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/shoot-the-messenger/)
- [fellowshipping](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fellowshipping/)
- [battlestar galactica](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/battlestar-galactica/)
- [ron moore](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ron-moore/)
- [series finale](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/series-finale/)
- [spoilers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spoilers/)
- [greek mythology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/greek-mythology/)
- [kara thrace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kara-thrace/)
- [lee adama](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lee-adama/)
- [lara roslin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lara-roslin/)
- [glen larson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/glen-larson/)
- [battlestar galactica series finale review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/battlestar-galactica-series-finale-review/)
- [bsg](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bsg/)
- [battlestar galactica review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/battlestar-galactica-review/)
- [what is this I don't even](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/what-is-this-i-dont-even/)
- [twelve apostles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/twelve-apostles/)
- [quorum of the seventy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/quorum-of-the-seventy/)
- [leadership experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/leadership-experience/)
- [young women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/young-women/)
- [self esteem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/self-esteem/)
- [expedient](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/expedient/)
- [condemnation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/condemnation/)
- [joy of my countenance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/joy-of-my-countenance/)
- [D&C 88](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dc-88/)
- [first shall be last](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/first-shall-be-last/)
- [last shall be first](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/last-shall-be-first/)
- [checklists](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/checklists/)
- [exclusivity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/exclusivity/)
- [christian chain mail](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/christian-chain-mail/)
- [faith promoting rumor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/faith-promoting-rumor/)
- [divinity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/divinity/)
- [lyrics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lyrics/)
- [authenticity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/authenticity/)
- [persona](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/persona/)
- [mask](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mask/)
- [dogma](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dogma/)
- [intolerance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intolerance/)
- [david o. mckay](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/david-o-mckay/)
- [cafeteria mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cafeteria-mormon/)
- [eternal marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eternal-marriage/)
- [men and women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/men-and-women/)
- [funeral](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/funeral/)
- [altruism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/altruism/)
- [good and evil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/good-and-evil/)
- [spiritual gifts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spiritual-gifts/)
- [saran](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/saran/)
- [satan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/satan/)
- [temptation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/temptation/)
- [outer darkness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/outer-darkness/)
- [marie](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/marie/)
- [osmond](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/osmond/)
- [barack](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/barack/)
- [dead](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dead/)
- [Father's Day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fathers-day/)
- [Mother's Day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mothers-day/)
- [MBTI](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mbti/)
- [Kiersey Temperament Sorter](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kiersey-temperament-sorter/)
- [polyandry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/polyandry/)
- [intellectualism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intellectualism/)
- [fideism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fideism/)
- [Passover; Jewish; atonement; fos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/passover-jewish-atonement-fos/)
- [Baptism; Jews; fos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/baptism-jews-fos/)
- [medicine; fos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/medicine-fos/)
- [time](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/time/)
- [philosophy of time](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/philosophy-of-time/)
- [st. augustine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/st-augustine/)
- [confessions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/confessions/)
- [perception](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/perception/)
- [alma 32](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/alma-32/)
- [meditation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/meditation/)
- [studying](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/studying/)
- [speculation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/speculation/)
- [Malay](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/malay/)
- [afterlife](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/afterlife/)
- [welfare](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/welfare/)
- [duality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/duality/)
- [Hinduism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hinduism/)
- [Albert Einstein](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/albert-einstein/)
- [rationality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/rationality/)
- [agency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/agency/)
- [groupthink](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/groupthink/)
- [hierarchy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hierarchy/)
- [structure](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/structure/)
- [formality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/formality/)
- [SAHM](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sahm/)
- [Spirit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spirit/)
- [cultural mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cultural-mormonism/)
- [Heroes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/heroes/)
- [awards](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/awards/)
- [bloggers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bloggers/)
- [chastity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/chastity/)
- [singles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/singles/)
- [cyber-dating](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cyber-dating/)
- [divorce](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/divorce/)
- [Cougars](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cougars/)
- [interfaith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/interfaith/)
- [new religious movements](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/new-religious-movements/)
- [shakers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/shakers/)
- [new york religions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/new-york-religions/)
- [Judaism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/judaism/)
- [House of Israel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/house-of-israel/)
- [Lost Tribes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lost-tribes/)
- [therapy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/therapy/)
- [zoroastrianism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/zoroastrianism/)
- [guru nanak](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/guru-nanak/)
- [zoroaster](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/zoroaster/)
- [sikhs](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sikhs/)
- [King James Version](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/king-james-version/)
- [Enos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/enos/)
- [Edward Cullen](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/edward-cullen/)
- [pornography addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pornography-addiction/)
- [vampires](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/vampires/)
- [heroin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/heroin/)
- [addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/addiction/)
- [alcoholism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/alcoholism/)
- [Mormon pornography problem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-pornography-problem/)
- [statistics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/statistics/)
- [Pew forum research](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pew-forum-research/)
- [personal story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/personal-story/)
- [the sopranos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/the-sopranos/)
- [bishop mike young](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bishop-mike-young/)
- [prosperity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prosperity/)
- [symbolism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/symbolism/)
- [animal cruelty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/animal-cruelty/)
- [egg hatcheries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/egg-hatcheries/)
- [male chicks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/male-chicks/)
- [mercy for animals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mercy-for-animals/)
- [Hy-Line North America](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hy-line-north-america/)
- [asylum](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/asylum/)
- [birth control](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/birth-control/)
- [temples](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/temples/)
- [endowment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/endowment/)
- [prisoners](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prisoners/)
- [employment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/employment/)
- [psychiatry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/psychiatry/)
- [intellectual property](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intellectual-property/)
- [sex abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sex-abuse/)
- [criminal law](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/criminal-law/)
- [pioneers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pioneers/)
- [Eve](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eve/)
- [Adam](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/adam/)
- [tax](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/tax/)
- [legal history](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/legal-history/)
- [moderation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/moderation/)
- [moderation in all things](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/moderation-in-all-things/)
- [military](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/military/)
- [constitutional law](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/constitutional-law/)
- [dress code](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dress-code/)
- [jung](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jung/)
- [dream interpretation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dream-interpretation/)
- [wonder](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/wonder/)
- [opinion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/opinion/)
- [courts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/courts/)
- [bias](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bias/)
- [singles ward](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/singles-ward/)
- [Treasure-seeking](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/treasure-seeking/)
- [Solomon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/solomon/)
- [Church courts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/church-courts/)
- [win/win](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/winwin/)
- [porn](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/porn/)
- [bednar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bednar/)
- [avatars](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/avatars/)
- [black](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/black/)
- [buddhism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/buddhism/)
- [enlightenment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/enlightenment/)
- [ghosts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ghosts/)
- [spirits](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spirits/)
- [humidity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/humidity/)
- [photography](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/photography/)
- [spooky](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spooky/)
- [lawyers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lawyers/)
- [william lane craig](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/william-lane-craig/)
- [ex nihilo](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ex-nihilo/)
- [science and religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/science-and-religion/)
- [kalam cosmological argument](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kalam-cosmological-argument/)
- [Howard Hughes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/howard-hughes/)
- [fast and testimony meeting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fast-and-testimony-meeting/)
- [certainty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/certainty/)
- [poetry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/poetry/)
- [Logos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/logos/)
- [Robert Wright](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/robert-wright/)
- [The Evolution of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/the-evolution-of-god/)
- [Old Testament; Sunday School](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/old-testament-sunday-school/)
- [sleep](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sleep/)
- [justin marler](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/justin-marler/)
- [death to the world](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/death-to-the-world/)
- [orthodox church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/orthodox-church/)
- [monks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/monks/)
- [icons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/icons/)
- [saints](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/saints/)
- [modesty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/modesty/)
- [youth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/youth/)
- [thanksgiving](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/thanksgiving/)
- [haidt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/haidt/)
- [Stephanie Meyer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/stephanie-meyer/)
- [Entertainment Weekly](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/entertainment-weekly/)
- [New Moon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/new-moon/)
- [Breaking Dawn](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/breaking-dawn/)
- [Bella](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bella/)
- [domestic abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/domestic-abuse/)
- [sexism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sexism/)
- [anti-feminist](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/anti-feminist/)
- [First Presidency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/first-presidency/)
- [predictions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/predictions/)
- [near death experiences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/near-death-experiences/)
- [betty eadie](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/betty-eadie/)
- [raymond moody](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/raymond-moody/)
- [bruce greyson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bruce-greyson/)
- [NDERF](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nderf/)
- [IANDS](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/iands/)
- [Elder's Quorum](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/elders-quorum/)
- [High Priests' Group](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/high-priests-group/)
- [NDE](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nde/)
- [sex education](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sex-education/)
- [Glee](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/glee/)
- [CNN](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cnn/)
- [Reese's Peanut Butter Cups](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/reeses-peanut-butter-cups/)
- [occupation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/occupation/)
- [work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/work/)
- [miley cyrus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/miley-cyrus/)
- [technology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/technology/)
- [Kindle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kindle/)
- [Kindle review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kindle-review/)
- [reading](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/reading/)
- [Mormon Matters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-matters/)
- [By Common Consent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/by-common-consent/)
- [bishop](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bishop/)
- [cleavage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cleavage/)
- [Aaronic priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/aaronic-priesthood/)
- [Confederate flag](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/confederate-flag/)
- [appearance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/appearance/)
- [disciplinary council](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/disciplinary-council/)
- [Adam and Eve](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/adam-and-eve/)
- [academic freedom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/academic-freedom/)
- [Enoch](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/enoch/)
- [United Order](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/united-order/)
- [Noah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/noah/)
- [Flood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/flood/)
- [Biblical criticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/biblical-criticism/)
- [Adversity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/adversity/)
- [Acceptance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/acceptance/)
- [Gratitude](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gratitude/)
- [Palestine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/palestine/)
- [eternal increase](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eternal-increase/)
- [correlation committee](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/correlation-committee/)
- [social networks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/social-networks/)
- [ideas](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ideas/)
- [NOM](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nom/)
- [transsexual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/transsexual/)
- [teach](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/teach/)
- [conferences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/conferences/)
- [community](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/community/)
- [mike zuckerberg](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mike-zuckerberg/)
- [elder bednar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/elder-bednar/)
- [reviews](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/reviews/)
- [Question](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/question/)
- [greg prince](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/greg-prince/)
- [temple recommend](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/temple-recommend/)
- [nutrition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nutrition/)
- [vegetarian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/vegetarian/)
- [roxy rawson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/roxy-rawson/)
- [linescratchers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/linescratchers/)
- [LDS musicians](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lds-musicians/)
- [southpark](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/southpark/)
- [The Book of Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/the-book-of-mormon/)
- [Broadway](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/broadway/)
- [South Park](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/south-park/)
- [inspiration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/inspiration/)
- [footprints in the sand](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/footprints-in-the-sand/)
- [doggerel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/doggerel/)
- [film](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/film/)
- [mission](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mission/)
- [raising the bar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/raising-the-bar/)
- [put on a shelf](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/put-on-a-shelf/)
- [grass roots](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/grass-roots/)
- [Book Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/book-review/)
- [monty hall problem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/monty-hall-problem/)
- [probability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/probability/)
- [simplicity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/simplicity/)
- [intuition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intuition/)
- [Children's Songbook](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/childrens-songbook/)
- [immigration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/immigration/)
- [Mexico](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mexico/)
- [Arizona](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/arizona/)
- [Pearce](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pearce/)
- [Eternal Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eternal-family/)
- [cosmology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cosmology/)
- [Lost](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lost/)
- [spirit world](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spirit-world/)
- [Mormon Marriage Ref](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-marriage-ref/)
- [eternal progress](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/eternal-progress/)
- [Corinthians](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/corinthians/)
- [mormons and bikinis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormons-and-bikinis/)
- [mormon garments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-garments/)
- [mormons and Las Vegas](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormons-and-las-vegas/)
- [Callings and Releases](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/callings-and-releases/)
- [comedian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/comedian/)
- [stand-up](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/stand-up/)
- [fatherhood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fatherhood/)
- [puberty rites](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/puberty-rites/)
- [aboriginals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/aboriginals/)
- [nature religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/nature-religion/)
- [social religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/social-religion/)
- [mythology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mythology/)
- [sacred grove](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sacred-grove/)
- [mountain of the lord](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mountain-of-the-lord/)
- [writing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/writing/)
- [FIRO-B](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/firo-b/)
- [inclusion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/inclusion/)
- [clique](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/clique/)
- [social network](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/social-network/)
- [spiritual guidance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spiritual-guidance/)
- [E. Scott](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/e-scott/)
- [free will](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/free-will/)
- [determinism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/determinism/)
- [chorister](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/chorister/)
- [practice song](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/practice-song/)
- [fidelity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/fidelity/)
- [struggle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/struggle/)
- [Buildings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/buildings/)
- [moral agency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/moral-agency/)
- [proxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/proxy/)
- [couple sexual style](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/couple-sexual-style/)
- [couples](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/couples/)
- [intimacy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intimacy/)
- [web design](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/web-design/)
- [LDS church websites](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lds-church-websites/)
- [negative patterns in relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/negative-patterns-in-relationships/)
- [Emotionally Focused Therapy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/emotionally-focused-therapy/)
- [marriage counseling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/marriage-counseling/)
- [marital therapy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/marital-therapy/)
- [couple therapy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/couple-therapy/)
- [bad therapists](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bad-therapists/)
- [emotion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/emotion/)
- [logical thinking](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/logical-thinking/)
- [rational thought](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/rational-thought/)
- [cognition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cognition/)
- [pride cycle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pride-cycle/)
- [The Word as a seed](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/the-word-as-a-seed/)
- [courage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/courage/)
- [personal growth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/personal-growth/)
- [adolecents](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/adolecents/)
- [young men](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/young-men/)
- [mormon.org](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-org/)
- [membership](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/membership/)
- [pr](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pr/)
- [marketing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/marketing/)
- [confession](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/confession/)
- [adolescents](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/adolescents/)
- [infidelity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/infidelity/)
- [volcanism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/volcanism/)
- [cutting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cutting/)
- [anxiety](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/anxiety/)
- [priesthood ban](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/priesthood-ban/)
- [dualism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dualism/)
- [monism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/monism/)
- [forgivrnrss](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/forgivrnrss/)
- [proposition 8](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/proposition-8/)
- [marlin jensen](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/marlin-jensen/)
- [stress](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/stress/)
- [finances](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/finances/)
- [basketball](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/basketball/)
- [brandon davies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/brandon-davies/)
- [election](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/election/)
- [glenn beck](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/glenn-beck/)
- [jon huntsman](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jon-huntsman/)
- [natural disasters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/natural-disasters/)
- [theodicy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/theodicy/)
- [talks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/talks/)
- [athletes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/athletes/)
- [attitudes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/attitudes/)
- [Book of Mormon Musical](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/book-of-mormon-musical/)
- [David Brooks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/david-brooks/)
- [Creed or Chaos](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/creed-or-chaos/)
- [young adults](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/young-adults/)
- [inactivity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/inactivity/)
- [Millennials](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/millennials/)
- [Heavenly Mother](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/heavenly-mother/)
- [Mother](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mother/)
- [contemporary issues](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/contemporary-issues/)
- [deity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/deity/)
- [feminine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/feminine/)
- [identity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/identity/)
- [labels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/labels/)
- [TBM](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/tbm/)
- [negro](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/negro/)
- [Christian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/christian/)
- [evagelical](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/evagelical/)
- [dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dialogue/)
- [undocumented workers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/undocumented-workers/)
- [debates](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/debates/)
- [intellectual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intellectual/)
- [learned](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/learned/)
- [temperament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/temperament/)
- [performance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/performance/)
- [liminality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/liminality/)
- [rites](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/rites/)
- [rites of passage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/rites-of-passage/)
- [practices](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/practices/)
- [uniqueness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/uniqueness/)
- [distinctive teachings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/distinctive-teachings/)
- [doctrinal emphases](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/doctrinal-emphases/)
- [public image](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/public-image/)
- [bodies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bodies/)
- [self-image](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/self-image/)
- [teaching correct principles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/teaching-correct-principles/)
- [independent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/independent/)
- [discussions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/discussions/)
- [legacy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/legacy/)
- [symposium](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/symposium/)
- [journal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/journal/)
- [magazine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/magazine/)
- [bearing testimony](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bearing-testimony/)
- [Chieko Okazaki](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/chieko-okazaki/)
- [Marion D. Hanks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/marion-d-hanks/)
- [BYU organic evolution controversy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/byu-organic-evolution-controversy/)
- [William Chamberlin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/william-chamberlin/)
- [Ralph Chamberlin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ralph-chamberlin/)
- [Henry Peterson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/henry-peterson/)
- [Joseph Peterson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/joseph-peterson/)
- [roles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/roles/)
- [value](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/value/)
- [self-worth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/self-worth/)
- [9/11](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/911/)
- [peacemaking](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/peacemaking/)
- [prophetic discourse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prophetic-discourse/)
- [guilt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/guilt/)
- [shame](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/shame/)
- [toxic shame](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/toxic-shame/)
- [unconditional love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/unconditional-love/)
- [Prodigal Son](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/prodigal-son/)
- [Student Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/student-review/)
- [Daily Universe](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/daily-universe/)
- [newspaper](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/newspaper/)
- [capital punishment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/capital-punishment/)
- [death penalty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/death-penalty/)
- [blood atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/blood-atonement-2/)
- [Robert Jeffress](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/robert-jeffress/)
- [cult](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cult/)
- [Mormon Moment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-moment/)
- [survey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/survey/)
- [Economics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/economics/)
- [Communalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/communalism/)
- [Occupy Wall Street](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/occupy-wall-street/)
- [Harper’s Magazine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/harper’s-magazine/)
- [Hugh Nibley](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hugh-nibley/)
- [YSA](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ysa/)
- [dating](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/dating/)
- [pressure](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pressure/)
- [gospel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gospel/)
- [Childlike](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/childlike/)
- [Humility](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/humility/)
- [Men](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/men/)
- [Preside](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/preside/)
- [Gender roles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/gender-roles/)
- [Lucifer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lucifer/)
- [War in Heaven](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/war-in-heaven/)
- [Humans](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/humans/)
- [Devils](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/devils/)
- [Mary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mary/)
- [Magi](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/magi/)
- [Shepherds](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/shepherds/)
- [Star of Bethlehem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/star-of-bethlehem/)
- [Manger](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/manger/)
- [December 25th](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/december-25th/)
- [Religious Experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/religious-experience/)
- [Correspondence Theory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/correspondence-theory/)
- [Modernism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/modernism/)
- [Sociology of Knowledge](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sociology-of-knowledge/)
- [Discourse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/discourse/)
- [Lamentation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lamentation/)
- [Vulnerability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/vulnerability/)
- [Millennium](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/millennium/)
- [End of the World](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/end-of-the-world/)
- [Rapture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/rapture/)
- [Independence (MO)](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/independence-mo/)
- [Recovery](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/recovery/)
- [Alcoholics Anonymous](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/alcoholics-anonymous/)
- [12 Steps](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/12-steps/)
- [Addiction and Recovery Program](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/addiction-and-recovery-program/)
- [Satisfaction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/satisfaction/)
- [Purpose](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/purpose/)
- [Institutions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/institutions/)
- [Boundaries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/boundaries/)
- [Spiritual Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spiritual-journey/)
- [Patriarch](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/patriarch/)
- [Words of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/words-of-god/)
- [Lineage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/lineage/)
- [Twelve Tribes of Israel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/twelve-tribes-of-israel/)
- [Pre-existence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pre-existence/)
- [Doomsday](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/doomsday/)
- [End Times](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/end-times/)
- [World Decay](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/world-decay/)
- [Pessimism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/pessimism/)
- [Hell in a Hand Basket](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hell-in-a-hand-basket/)
- [Spiritual Crisis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spiritual-crisis/)
- [Spiritual Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spiritual-development/)
- [Human Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/human-development/)
- [Wrestling with God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/wrestling-with-god/)
- [Wrestling with Ourselves](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/wrestling-with-ourselves/)
- [Jacob and the Angel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jacob-and-the-angel/)
- [Jacob and Esau](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jacob-and-esau/)
- [Confidence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/confidence/)
- [Activism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/activism/)
- [Initiative](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/initiative/)
- [Open Stories Foundation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/open-stories-foundation/)
- [Religious Disaffection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/religious-disaffection/)
- [Memoir](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/memoir/)
- [Autobiography](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/autobiography/)
- [Coming of Age](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/coming-of-age/)
- [Search for God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/search-for-god/)
- [Temple Work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/temple-work/)
- [Baptism for the Dead](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/baptism-for-the-dead/)
- [Holocaust victims](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/holocaust-victims/)
- [Self-righteousness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/self-righteousness/)
- [Wrestling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/wrestling/)
- [Jacob](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/jacob/)
- [Esau](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/esau/)
- [Isaac](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/isaac/)
- [Rebekah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/rebekah/)
- [physicality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/physicality/)
- [Holy Spirit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/holy-spirit/)
- [Neuroscience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/neuroscience/)
- [Brain Functioning](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/brain-functioning/)
- [Cognitive Bias](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cognitive-bias/)
- [TempleBan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/templeban/)
- [Transhumanism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/transhumanism/)
- [Future](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/future/)
- [Singularity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/singularity/)
- [Orthodoxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/orthodoxy/)
- [Unorthodoxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/unorthodoxy/)
- [Ward](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ward/)
- [Mixed-faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mixed-faith/)
- [Faith Transition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/faith-transition/)
- [Institution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/institution/)
- [Individuals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/individuals/)
- [Spiritual Growth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spiritual-growth/)
- [Spiritual Journeys](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/spiritual-journeys/)
- [Negotiating Tensions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/negotiating-tensions/)
- [Family Relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/family-relationships/)
- [Middle Way](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/middle-way/)
- [Polynesian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/polynesian/)
- [Maori](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/maori/)
- [Tongan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/tongan/)
- [Bi-culturalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/bi-culturalism/)
- [Performing culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/performing-culture/)
- [Polynesian Cultural Center](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/polynesian-cultural-center/)
- [The Other Side of Heaven](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/the-other-side-of-heaven/)
- [Colonialism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/colonialism/)
- [Mid-Singles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mid-singles/)
- [Singles Wards](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/singles-wards/)
- [Cleanflix](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/cleanflix/)
- [Hollywood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/hollywood/)
- [Violence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/violence-2/)
- [Artistic Expression](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/artistic-expression/)
- [GLBTI](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/glbti/)
- [Intersex](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/intersex/)
- [Children of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/children-of-god/)
- [Kinship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/kinship/)
- [Heavenly Parents](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/heavenly-parents/)
- [Mental Illness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mental-illness/)
- [Grief](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/grief/)
- [Faith Crisis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/faith-crisis/)
- [Sacred History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sacred-history/)
- [Professionalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/professionalism/)
- [Marlin K. Jensen](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/marlin-k-jensen/)
- [Voice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/voice/)
- [Goals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/goals/)
- [William James](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/william-james/)
- [Strenuous Mood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/strenuous-mood/)
- [Circumcision](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/circumcision/)
- [Orthopraxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/orthopraxy/)
- [Teachings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/teachings/)
- [Policy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/policy/)
- [Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/development/)
- [Savior](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/savior/)
- [Exaltation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/exaltation/)
- [Plan of Salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/plan-of-salvation-2/)
- [Calling and Election](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/calling-and-election/)
- [Victimization](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/victimization/)
- [Counseling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/counseling/)
- [Safety](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/safety/)
- [GLBT](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/glbt/)
- [Family Support](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/family-support/)
- [Resources](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/resources/)
- [Family Acceptance Project](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/family-acceptance-project/)
- [Family Fellowship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/family-fellowship/)
- [Mormon Theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-theology/)
- [Mormon Trail](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mormon-trail/)
- [Handcart treks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/handcart-treks/)
- [Mythologizing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/mythologizing/)
- [Idealized Narratives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/idealized-narratives/)
- [Environmentalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/environmentalism/)
- [Ecology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/ecology/)
- [Sustainability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/sustainability/)
- [Earth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/tag/earth/)

## Portfolio Tags

- [Apologetics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/apologetics/)
- [Abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/abuse/)
- [Forgiveness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/forgiveness/)
- [General Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/general-conference/)
- [Dallin H. Oaks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dallin-h-oaks/)
- [History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/history/)
- [Homosexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/homosexuality/)
- [Gay](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gay/)
- [Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith/)
- [Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/family/)
- [Relief Society](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/relief-society/)
- [Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/priesthood/)
- [Mormon Matters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-matters/)
- [Retreat](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/retreat/)
- [Natural Disaster](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/natural-disaster/)
- [Theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/theology/)
- [Nature](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/nature/)
- [Hope](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hope/)
- [Revelations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/revelations/)
- [Joseph Smith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/joseph-smith/)
- [Community](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/community/)
- [Thomas Jay Oord](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/thomas-jay-oord/)
- [Sunstone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sunstone/)
- [Women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/women/)
- [Science](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/science/)
- [Scouting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scouting/)
- [Culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/culture/)
- [Covenants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/covenants/)
- [Endowment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/endowment/)
- [Temple](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/temple/)
- [Ritual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ritual/)
- [Faith Journeys](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-journeys/)
- [LDS](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds/)
- [Falling Upward](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/falling-upward/)
- [Spirituality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spirituality/)
- [Richard Rohr](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/richard-rohr/)
- [Wisdom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/wisdom/)
- [Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon/)
- [Apologists](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/apologists/)
- [Disclosure](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/disclosure/)
- [Faith Crisis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-crisis/)
- [Neo-apologists](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/neo-apologists/)
- [Religious harm](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/religious-harm/)
- [Religious support](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/religious-support/)
- [scholarship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scholarship/)
- [Transparency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/transparency/)
- [Cohabitation without Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cohabitation-without-marriage/)
- [Elder Dallin H. Oaks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/elder-dallin-h-oaks/)
- [Raising Children in Same-sex Homes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/raising-children-in-same-sex-homes/)
- [same-sex marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/same-sex-marriage/)
- [The World vs Latter-day Saints](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/the-world-vs-latter-day-saints/)
- [FAIR Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fair-mormon/)
- [FARMS](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/farms/)
- [Hugh Nibley](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hugh-nibley/)
- [Maxwell Institute](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/maxwell-institute/)
- [D. Todd Christofferson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/d-todd-christofferson/)
- [LGBT](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lgbt/)
- [Spiritual Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-journey/)
- [Tom Christofferson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tom-christofferson/)
- [apostles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/apostles/)
- [Constructive Engagement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/constructive-engagement/)
- [General Church leaders](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/general-church-leaders/)
- [prophets](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/prophets/)
- [Spiritual Journeys](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-journeys/)
- [curriculum](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/curriculum/)
- [Discussion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/discussion/)
- [leadership](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/leadership/)
- [Model](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/model/)
- [teaching](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/teaching/)
- [Earthquakes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/earthquakes/)
- [Emergency Preparedness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/emergency-preparedness/)
- [Hurricanes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hurricanes/)
- [natural disasters](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/natural-disasters/)
- [theodicy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/theodicy/)
- [Tornados](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tornados/)
- [Survival](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/survival/)
- [Wilderness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/wilderness/)
- [Ann Taves](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ann-taves/)
- [Cognitive Science](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cognitive-science/)
- [Cognitive Social Science](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cognitive-social-science/)
- [Hypnosis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hypnosis/)
- [Neuroscience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/neuroscience/)
- [New Religious Paths](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/new-religious-paths/)
- [revelation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/revelation/)
- [creation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/creation/)
- [Embodiment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/embodiment/)
- [Faith Communities](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-communities/)
- [God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/god/)
- [love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/love/)
- [Soul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/soul/)
- [Spirit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spirit/)
- [2017 Salt Lake Sunstone Symposium](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/2017-salt-lake-sunstone-symposium/)
- [Elna Baker](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/elna-baker/)
- [Mehrsa Baradaran](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mehrsa-baradaran/)
- [Melissa Harris-Perry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/melissa-harris-perry/)
- [Mindy Gledhill](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mindy-gledhill/)
- [A Thoughtful Faith Facebook Support Group](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/a-thoughtful-faith-facebook-support-group/)
- [Engagement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/engagement/)
- [Faith challenges](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-challenges/)
- [Speaking Up in Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/speaking-up-in-church/)
- [Calling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/calling/)
- [conversion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/conversion/)
- [Dark Night of the Soul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dark-night-of-the-soul/)
- [Godwrestling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/godwrestling/)
- [Ministry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ministry/)
- [Hero’s Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/heros-journey/)
- [Joseph A Durick](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/joseph-a-durick/)
- [LDS. Mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-mormon/)
- [Phyllis Tickle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/phyllis-tickle/)
- [Spiritual Hero](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-hero/)
- [Spiritual Mentor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-mentor/)
- [William James](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/william-james/)
- [certainty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/certainty/)
- [doubt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/doubt/)
- [Living Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/living-faith/)
- [Peter Enns](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/peter-enns/)
- [Spiritual experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-experience/)
- [Trust](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/trust/)
- [Activism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/activism/)
- [Conflict](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/conflict/)
- [Heavenly Mother](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/heavenly-mother/)
- [Mormon Women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-women/)
- [Spiritual Confidence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-confidence/)
- [Brain](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/brain/)
- [Bridge Building](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/bridge-building/)
- [Four Quadrants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/four-quadrants/)
- [Four Questions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/four-questions/)
- [Hidden Motivators](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hidden-motivators/)
- [Unconscious Processes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/unconscious-processes/)
- [Boy Scouts of America](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/boy-scouts-of-america/)
- [Cub Scouts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cub-scouts/)
- [LDS missions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-missions/)
- [LGBTQ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lgbtq/)
- [Scouts of Canada](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scouts-of-canada/)
- [Young Men’s program](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/young-mens-program/)
- [Young Women’s program](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/young-womens-program/)
- [Negotiating Difficult Relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/negotiating-difficult-relationships/)
- [Raising Children](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/raising-children/)
- [Sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sexuality/)
- [Understanding Differences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/understanding-differences/)
- [Experimenting on the Word](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/experimenting-on-the-word/)
- [Overcoming Discouragement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/overcoming-discouragement/)
- [Peer Pressure](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/peer-pressure/)
- [Spiritual Journeying](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-journeying/)
- [baptism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/baptism/)
- [marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/marriage/)
- [Promises](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/promises/)
- [Priesthood Lessons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/priesthood-lessons/)
- [Questions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/questions/)
- [Relief Society Lessons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/relief-society-lessons/)
- [scriptures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scriptures/)
- [sunday school](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sunday-school/)
- [Easter](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/easter/)
- [Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/christianity/)
- [Abba](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/abba/)
- [atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/atonement/)
- [Ecological Sustainability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ecological-sustainability/)
- [Economics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/economics/)
- [Jesus Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jesus-christ/)
- [Modernity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/modernity/)
- [book of mormon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/book-of-mormon/)
- [Doctrine and Covenants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/doctrine-and-covenants/)
- [New Perspectives on Translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/new-perspectives-on-translation/)
- [Pearl of Great Price](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pearl-of-great-price/)
- [Seership](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/seership/)
- [translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/translation/)
- [Moral Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/moral-development/)
- [parenting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/parenting/)
- [Spiritual Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-development/)
- [Teaching Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/teaching-faith/)
- [Teaching Values](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/teaching-values/)
- [Emergent Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/emergent-christianity/)
- [Marcus Borg](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/marcus-borg/)
- [Metaphor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/metaphor/)
- [sacrament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sacrament/)
- [symbolism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/symbolism/)
- [Consequences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/consequences/)
- [grace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/grace/)
- [Responsibility](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/responsibility/)
- [Sin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sin/)
- [Creatio ex nihilo](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/creatio-ex-nihilo/)
- [Mormon Theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-theology/)
- [Problem of Evil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/problem-of-evil/)
- [Process theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/process-theology/)
- [agency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/agency/)
- [Eternity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/eternity/)
- [evil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/evil/)
- [healing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/healing/)
- [Omnipotence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/omnipotence/)
- [scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scripture/)
- [suffering](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/suffering/)
- [Enlivened Spirituality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/enlivened-spirituality/)
- [hymns](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hymns/)
- [music](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/music/)
- [worship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/worship/)
- [depression](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/depression/)
- [Loss](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/loss/)
- [Peace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/peace/)
- [Beauty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/beauty/)
- [Goodness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/goodness/)
- [relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/relationships/)
- [truth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/truth/)
- [Conversation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/conversation/)
- [Effective Communication](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/effective-communication/)
- [Large Group Conversation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/large-group-conversation/)
- [Small Group Conversation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/small-group-conversation/)
- [Christmas](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/christmas/)
- [December 25th](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/december-25th/)
- [Magi](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/magi/)
- [Mary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mary/)
- [Nativity Story](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/nativity-story/)
- [Shepherds](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/shepherds/)
- [Star of Bethlehem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/star-of-bethlehem/)
- [2016 U.S. Election](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/2016-u-s-election/)
- [Determining the Future](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/determining-the-future/)
- [Emotional Health](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/emotional-health/)
- [Healing Divisiveness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/healing-divisiveness/)
- [Self-Care](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/self-care/)
- [pornography](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pornography/)
- [pornography addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pornography-addiction/)
- [Sex](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sex/)
- [Sex Addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sex-addiction/)
- [Therapies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/therapies/)
- [Policy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/policy/)
- [survey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/survey/)
- [LDS Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-doctrine/)
- [Mormon and Gay Website](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-and-gay-website/)
- [Same-Sex Attraction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/same-sex-attraction/)
- [Corporation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/corporation/)
- [addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/addiction/)
- [Fight the New Drug](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fight-the-new-drug/)
- [Public Education](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/public-education/)
- [doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/doctrine/)
- [intimacy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/intimacy/)
- [Praxis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/praxis/)
- [Stumbling-blocks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/stumbling-blocks/)
- [dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dialogue/)
- [journals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/journals/)
- [Jubilee celebration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jubilee-celebration/)
- [Articles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/articles/)
- [Essays](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/essays/)
- [Intellectual History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/intellectual-history/)
- [complaint](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/complaint/)
- [Faith and Doubt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-and-doubt/)
- [Women’s Issues](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/womens-issues/)
- [Beehives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/beehives/)
- [Laurels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/laurels/)
- [MIA Maids](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mia-maids/)
- [Mission President](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mission-president/)
- [Names](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/names/)
- [Positions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/positions/)
- [Titles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/titles/)
- [Young Women’s Organization Theme](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/young-womens-organization-theme/)
- [Anti-Nephi-Lehies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/anti-nephi-lehies/)
- [Captain Moroni](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/captain-moroni/)
- [Stripling Warriors](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/stripling-warriors/)
- [war](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/war/)
- [cross](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cross/)
- [mercy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mercy/)
- [Plan of Salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/plan-of-salvation/)
- [Humor](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/humor/)
- [David Campbell](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/david-campbell/)
- [Derrick Clements](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/derrick-clements/)
- [Jana Riess](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jana-riess/)
- [Millennials](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/millennials/)
- [Religiosity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/religiosity/)
- [Carol Lynn Pearson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/carol-lynn-pearson/)
- [Emma Hale Smith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/emma-hale-smith/)
- [Plural Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/plural-marriage/)
- [polygamy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/polygamy/)
- [Charity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/charity/)
- [Evangelical Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/evangelical-christianity/)
- [motivation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/motivation/)
- [Adam Miller](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adam-miller/)
- [Future](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/future/)
- [compassion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/compassion/)
- [Mathew N Schmalz](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mathew-n-schmalz/)
- [Reconciliation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/reconciliation/)
- [Jeffrey R Holland](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jeffrey-r-holland/)
- [Joseph Smith’s First Vision Accounts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/joseph-smiths-first-vision-accounts/)
- [Leaving the Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/leaving-the-church/)
- [Nature of Online Discussions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/nature-of-online-discussions/)
- [Richard J Maynes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/richard-j-maynes/)
- [Doctrinal Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/doctrinal-development/)
- [Jesus in Art](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jesus-in-art/)
- [second coming](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/second-coming/)
- [Was Jesus Married](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/was-jesus-married/)
- [Alcoholics Anonymous](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/alcoholics-anonymous/)
- [Recovery](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/recovery/)
- [Divine Nature](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/divine-nature/)
- [meditation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/meditation/)
- [mysticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mysticism/)
- [Prodigal Son](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/prodigal-son/)
- [Spiritual Disciplines](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-disciplines/)
- [Spiritual Transformation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-transformation/)
- [Betrayal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/betrayal/)
- [shame](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/shame/)
- [Addiction treatment programs](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/addiction-treatment-programs/)
- [Family Dynamics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/family-dynamics/)
- [Apocalypticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/apocalypticism/)
- [End of the World](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/end-of-the-world/)
- [justice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/justice/)
- [Path of the Bodhisattva](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/path-of-the-bodhisattva/)
- [Saviors on Mount Zion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/saviors-on-mount-zion/)
- [Sorrow](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sorrow/)
- [Apocalyticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/apocalyticism/)
- [Boundary Maintenance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/boundary-maintenance/)
- [End Times](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/end-times/)
- [Identity formation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/identity-formation/)
- [judgment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/judgment/)
- [Alcholics Anonymous](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/alcholics-anonymous/)
- [Atonement of Jesus Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/atonement-of-jesus-christ/)
- [LDS Addiction and Recovery Program](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-addiction-and-recovery-program/)
- [Physiology of Addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/physiology-of-addiction/)
- [Change Strategies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/change-strategies/)
- [Conscience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/conscience/)
- [Faith Struggle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-struggle/)
- [Gospel of Jesus Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gospel-of-jesus-christ/)
- [Church Handbook of Instructions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/church-handbook-of-instructions/)
- [Discipleship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/discipleship/)
- [Elder Todd D. Christofferson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/elder-todd-d-christofferson/)
- [LGBT Policy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lgbt-policy/)
- [President Russell M. Nelson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/president-russell-m-nelson/)
- [Zion Building](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/zion-building/)
- [Belief](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/belief/)
- [Zion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/zion/)
- [attitudes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/attitudes/)
- [gender](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gender/)
- [Gender Survey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gender-survey/)
- [Women’s Ordination](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/womens-ordination/)
- [self esteem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/self-esteem/)
- [Sex Counseling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sex-counseling/)
- [Sex Therapy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sex-therapy/)
- [Values](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/values/)
- [Brokenness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/brokenness/)
- [Demythologizing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/demythologizing/)
- [Disenchantment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/disenchantment/)
- [Myths](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/myths/)
- [Paul Tillich](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/paul-tillich/)
- [Rituals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/rituals/)
- [Symbols](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/symbols/)
- [Biological Origins of Sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/biological-origins-of-sexuality/)
- [Sexual Attraction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sexual-attraction/)
- [Sexual Identity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sexual-identity/)
- [Sexual Orientation Change Therapy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sexual-orientation-change-therapy/)
- [Social Factors in Sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/social-factors-in-sexuality/)
- [Parker Palmer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/parker-palmer/)
- [Spiritual Renewal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-renewal/)
- [Tragic Gap](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tragic-gap/)
- [apostasy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/apostasy/)
- [Children of LGBT Parents](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/children-of-lgbt-parents/)
- [New Policies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/new-policies/)
- [B.H. Roberts](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/b-h-roberts/)
- [Boyd K. Packer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/boyd-k-packer/)
- [Deceit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/deceit/)
- [Joseph Fielding Smith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/joseph-fielding-smith/)
- [Leonard Arrington](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/leonard-arrington/)
- [Lying](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lying/)
- [Iron Rod](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/iron-rod/)
- [Lianona](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lianona/)
- [Richard D Poll](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/richard-d-poll/)
- [Spiritual Temperaments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-temperaments/)
- [Eugene England](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/eugene-england/)
- [Lay Clergy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lay-clergy/)
- [Mormon Ward](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-ward/)
- [School of Love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/school-of-love/)
- [Empathy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/empathy/)
- [Faith journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-journey/)
- [Cynicism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cynicism/)
- [Skepticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/skepticism/)
- [Being Wrong](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/being-wrong/)
- [Believing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/believing/)
- [Gift of the Holy Ghost](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gift-of-the-holy-ghost/)
- [Kathryn Schulz](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/kathryn-schulz/)
- [Knowing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/knowing/)
- [testimony](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/testimony/)
- [CES Letter](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ces-letter/)
- [Historical Sites](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/historical-sites/)
- [Mormon History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-history/)
- [MormonThink](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormonthink/)
- [Public History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/public-history/)
- [storytelling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/storytelling/)
- [Dan Wotherspoon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dan-wotherspoon/)
- [John Dehlin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/john-dehlin/)
- [Mormon Spirituality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-spirituality/)
- [Mormon Stories](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-stories/)
- [Covenantal Theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/covenantal-theology/)
- [Elijah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/elijah/)
- [Origin](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/origin/)
- [Pelagius](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pelagius/)
- [BYU](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/byu/)
- [Claremont Graduate University](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/claremont-graduate-university/)
- [Mormon Studies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-studies/)
- [Religious Studies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/religious-studies/)
- [University of Southern California](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/university-of-southern-california/)
- [Utah State University](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/utah-state-university/)
- [Utah Valley University](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/utah-valley-university/)
- [Calling and Election](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/calling-and-election/)
- [Confirmation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/confirmation/)
- [Holy Ghost](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/holy-ghost/)
- [Holy Spirit of Promise](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/holy-spirit-of-promise/)
- [Ordinance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ordinance/)
- [Magic World View](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/magic-world-view/)
- [Seer stones](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/seer-stones/)
- [magazine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/magazine/)
- [Open Forum](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/open-forum/)
- [symposium](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/symposium/)
- [Divine Love](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/divine-love/)
- [guilt](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/guilt/)
- [Interviews](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interviews/)
- [worthiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/worthiness/)
- [Worthy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/worthy/)
- [Allies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/allies/)
- [Ally](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ally/)
- [Privilege](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/privilege/)
- [race](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/race/)
- [service](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/service/)
- [Body of Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/body-of-christ/)
- [Art-Faith Tension](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/art-faith-tension/)
- [Community Storytelling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/community-storytelling/)
- [Deseret Book](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/deseret-book/)
- [Excel Entertainment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/excel-entertainment/)
- [film](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/film/)
- [Filmmaking](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/filmmaking/)
- [LDS Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-church/)
- [Interpersonal Dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interpersonal-dialogue/)
- [Maintaining Relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/maintaining-relationships/)
- [Devotion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/devotion/)
- [Holy Envy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/holy-envy/)
- [interfaith dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interfaith-dialogue/)
- [mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormonism/)
- [Personal Journeys](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/personal-journeys/)
- [Roman Catholicism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/roman-catholicism/)
- [Adam](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adam/)
- [Elder Jeffrey R. Holland](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/elder-jeffrey-r-holland/)
- [Eve](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/eve/)
- [Fall](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fall/)
- [Garden of Eden](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/garden-of-eden/)
- [Ressurection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ressurection/)
- [Scriptural Literalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scriptural-literalism/)
- [Being Heard](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/being-heard/)
- [Loving Critics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/loving-critics/)
- [Speaking Up](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/speaking-up/)
- [Sustaining](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sustaining/)
- [Uncritical Lovers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/uncritical-lovers/)
- [Unloving Critics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/unloving-critics/)
- [Voice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/voice/)
- [Existential Crisis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/existential-crisis/)
- [Human Fulfillment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/human-fulfillment/)
- [Unbelief](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/unbelief/)
- [Cleansing the Temple; Jesus’ Anointing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cleansing-the-temple-jesus-anointing/)
- [Entry into Jerusalem](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/entry-into-jerusalem/)
- [Gethsemane](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gethsemane/)
- [Holy Week](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/holy-week/)
- [Last Supper](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/last-supper/)
- [Passion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/passion/)
- [covenant](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/covenant/)
- [death](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/death/)
- [Paul](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/paul/)
- [Romans](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/romans/)
- [the Law](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/the-law/)
- [Healthy Communication Strategies](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/healthy-communication-strategies/)
- [Inter-religious Dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/inter-religious-dialogue/)
- [Interfaith Virtues](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interfaith-virtues/)
- [Intra-religious Dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/intra-religious-dialogue/)
- [Borderlands](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/borderlands/)
- [Carrie Newcomer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/carrie-newcomer/)
- [Krista Tippett](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/krista-tippett/)
- [U. Carlisle Hunsaker](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/u-carlisle-hunsaker/)
- [Church Discipline](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/church-discipline/)
- [Excommunication](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/excommunication/)
- [Kate Kelly](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/kate-kelly/)
- [Ancient Palestine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ancient-palestine/)
- [Biblical Scholarship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/biblical-scholarship/)
- [Christology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/christology/)
- [Early Christian Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/early-christian-church/)
- [Gospels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gospels/)
- [New Testament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/new-testament/)
- [myth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/myth/)
- [religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/religion/)
- [salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/salvation/)
- [Truth claims](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/truth-claims/)
- [Worldview](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/worldview/)
- [ordinances](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ordinances/)
- [performance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/performance/)
- [Sacred Space](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sacred-space/)
- [Sacred Time](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sacred-time/)
- [Symbol](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/symbol/)
- [Flunking Sainthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/flunking-sainthood/)
- [Gospel Burn-out](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gospel-burn-out/)
- [Gospel Grind](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gospel-grind/)
- [Spiritual Praxis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-praxis/)
- [First Principles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/first-principles/)
- [repentance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/repentance/)
- [Extroversion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/extroversion/)
- [Introversion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/introversion/)
- [Personality Types](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/personality-types/)
- [Social experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/social-experience/)
- [Temperaments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/temperaments/)
- [Question 7](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/question-7/)
- [Temple Recommends](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/temple-recommends/)
- [temples](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/temples/)
- [Adult Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adult-faith/)
- [Faith Transitions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-transitions/)
- [Institutional Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/institutional-development/)
- [Institutional versus Individual Needs](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/institutional-versus-individual-needs/)
- [Socio-cultural Evolution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/socio-cultural-evolution/)
- [understanding](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/understanding/)
- [Gospel Topics Essays](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gospel-topics-essays/)
- [Joseph Smith’s Plural Wives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/joseph-smiths-plural-wives/)
- [LDS.org](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-org/)
- [Manifesto](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/manifesto/)
- [polyandry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/polyandry/)
- [Sacred Clothing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sacred-clothing/)
- [Secrecy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/secrecy/)
- [Temple Clothing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/temple-clothing/)
- [Temple Garments](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/temple-garments/)
- [Christian Service](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/christian-service/)
- [International Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/international-church/)
- [Meet the Mormons](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/meet-the-mormons/)
- [missionary work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/missionary-work/)
- [Mormon Multi-Culturalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-multi-culturalism/)
- [Mission Presidents](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mission-presidents/)
- [missionaries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/missionaries/)
- [Missionary Culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/missionary-culture/)
- [Parents of Missionaries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/parents-of-missionaries/)
- [Senior Couple Missionaries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/senior-couple-missionaries/)
- [Sharing the Gospel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sharing-the-gospel/)
- [Original Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/original-church/)
- [restoration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/restoration/)
- [authenticity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/authenticity/)
- [Difficult Issues](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/difficult-issues/)
- [Integrity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/integrity/)
- [Book of Job](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/book-of-job/)
- [David and Bathsheba](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/david-and-bathsheba/)
- [Hebrew Bible](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hebrew-bible/)
- [Job](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/job/)
- [Literary Criticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/literary-criticism/)
- [Tanakh](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tanakh/)
- [Wisdom Literature](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/wisdom-literature/)
- [holiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/holiness/)
- [Laughter](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/laughter/)
- [mormon culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-culture/)
- [Personal Relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/personal-relationships/)
- [Spiritual Grounding](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-grounding/)
- [Esau](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/esau/)
- [Favoritism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/favoritism/)
- [Isaac](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/isaac/)
- [Israel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/israel/)
- [Jacob](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jacob/)
- [Rebekah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/rebekah/)
- [Spiritual Growth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-growth/)
- [Christian Devotion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/christian-devotion/)
- [Bloggernacle](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/bloggernacle/)
- [feminism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/feminism/)
- [Healing perspectives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/healing-perspectives/)
- [September Six](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/september-six/)
- [Embodied God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/embodied-god/)
- [Omnibenevolent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/omnibenevolent/)
- [Omnipresent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/omnipresent/)
- [Omniscience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/omniscience/)
- [ethics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ethics/)
- [Fraternal organization](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fraternal-organization/)
- [Freemasonry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/freemasonry/)
- [Masonry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/masonry/)
- [Maxine Hanks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/maxine-hanks/)
- [Natasha Helfer Parker](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/natasha-helfer-parker/)
- [Kristine Haglund](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/kristine-haglund/)
- [Elbert Peck](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/elbert-peck/)
- [Faith Transition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-transition/)
- [James W. Fowler](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/james-w-fowler/)
- [Stages of Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/stages-of-faith/)
- [Abundance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/abundance/)
- [Stories](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/stories/)
- [Empowerment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/empowerment/)
- [Fallibility](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fallibility/)
- [Trusting Spirit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/trusting-spirit/)
- [Abraham](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/abraham/)
- [angels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/angels/)
- [Hospitality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hospitality/)
- [Incest](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/incest/)
- [Lot](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lot/)
- [Sarah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sarah/)
- [Sodom and Gomorrah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sodom-and-gomorrah/)
- [Becoming Like God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/becoming-like-god/)
- [Deification](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/deification/)
- [Doctrinal Change](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/doctrinal-change/)
- [LDS Gospel Topics Series](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-gospel-topics-series/)
- [theosis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/theosis/)
- [Empty Tomb](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/empty-tomb/)
- [Jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jesus/)
- [Lent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lent/)
- [Resurrection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/resurrection/)
- [Anger and Fear](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/anger-and-fear/)
- [Relationship Dynamics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/relationship-dynamics/)
- [modesty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/modesty/)
- [Morality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/morality/)
- [patriarchy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/patriarchy/)
- [youth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/youth/)
- [Book of Abraham](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/book-of-abraham/)
- [Greg Whiteley](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/greg-whiteley/)
- [mitt romney](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mitt-romney/)
- [Mormon media image](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-media-image/)
- [Mormon Moment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-moment/)
- [politics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/politics/)
- [Presidential elections](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/presidential-elections/)
- [Akedah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/akedah/)
- [Binding of Isaac](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/binding-of-isaac/)
- [Genesis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/genesis/)
- [Hagar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hagar/)
- [Ishmael](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ishmael/)
- [Canaan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/canaan/)
- [Confounding of languages](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/confounding-of-languages/)
- [Ham](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ham/)
- [Old Testament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/old-testament/)
- [Tower of Babel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tower-of-babel/)
- [Book of Mormon Translation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/book-of-mormon-translation/)
- [Martin Harris](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/martin-harris/)
- [Urim and Thummim](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/urim-and-thummim/)
- [christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/christ/)
- [Messiah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/messiah/)
- [Quest for the Historical Jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/quest-for-the-historical-jesus/)
- [Christianizing the Old Testament](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/christianizing-the-old-testament/)
- [Gospel Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gospel-doctrine/)
- [Mormonizing Scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormonizing-scripture/)
- [Cultural Influences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cultural-influences/)
- [Infallibility](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/infallibility/)
- [Personal Journey](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/personal-journey/)
- [Spiritual Maturation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-maturation/)
- [Apology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/apology/)
- [Curse of Cain](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/curse-of-cain/)
- [Cursing of Canaan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cursing-of-canaan/)
- [Ethnic Inferiority](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ethnic-inferiority/)
- [Less Valiant in Premortal Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/less-valiant-in-premortal-life/)
- [Mixed-Race Marriages](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mixed-race-marriages/)
- [Priesthood and Temple Ban](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/priesthood-and-temple-ban/)
- [Race and the Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/race-and-the-priesthood/)
- [Ark](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ark/)
- [Documentary Hypothesis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/documentary-hypothesis/)
- [Flood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/flood/)
- [Noah](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/noah/)
- [Acceptance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/acceptance/)
- [Inclusivity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/inclusivity/)
- [Pastoring](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pastoring/)
- [Collaboration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/collaboration/)
- [Good Shepherds](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/good-shepherds/)
- [Early Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/early-christianity/)
- [Early Mormonism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/early-mormonism/)
- [knowledge](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/knowledge/)
- [Eternal Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/eternal-family/)
- [Interreligious Dialogue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interreligious-dialogue/)
- [Mark Hofmann](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mark-hofmann/)
- [Ordain Women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ordain-women/)
- [Outsider Views](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/outsider-views/)
- [Salt Lake City](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/salt-lake-city/)
- [Adam and Eve](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adam-and-eve/)
- [Cain and Abel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cain-and-abel/)
- [Cursings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cursings/)
- [equality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/equality/)
- [Women’s Priesthood Ordination](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/womens-priesthood-ordination/)
- [Archetypes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/archetypes/)
- [Carl Jung](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/carl-jung/)
- [Joseph Campbell](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/joseph-campbell/)
- [Monomyth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/monomyth/)
- [church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/church/)
- [Goals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/goals/)
- [Individual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/individual/)
- [Institution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/institution/)
- [Safety](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/safety/)
- [Tension](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tension/)
- [Anti-War](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/anti-war/)
- [capitalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/capitalism/)
- [environment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/environment/)
- [Prophet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/prophet/)
- [Social Critic](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/social-critic/)
- [Critiques](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/critiques/)
- [Diffusion Theory of Religious Parallels](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/diffusion-theory-of-religious-parallels/)
- [Parallelism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/parallelism/)
- [Scholar](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scholar/)
- [Beck Controversy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/beck-controversy/)
- [Environmentalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/environmentalism/)
- [Near-Death Experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/near-death-experience/)
- [World War II](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/world-war-ii/)
- [Finite God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/finite-god/)
- [Mormon distinctiveness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-distinctiveness/)
- [Theism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/theism/)
- [Burial](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/burial/)
- [Cremation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cremation/)
- [Funerals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/funerals/)
- [Grief](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/grief/)
- [Grieving](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/grieving/)
- [Memorialization](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/memorialization/)
- [Blogging](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/blogging/)
- [facebook](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/facebook/)
- [mission](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mission/)
- [Mission Councils](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mission-councils/)
- [missionary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/missionary/)
- [Social Media](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/social-media/)
- [technology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/technology/)
- [Embracing All Truth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/embracing-all-truth/)
- [Human Family](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/human-family/)
- [tolerance](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tolerance/)
- [Watchman on the Tower](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/watchman-on-the-tower/)
- [Adam-God Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adam-god-doctrine/)
- [Adam-God Theory](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adam-god-theory/)
- [Brigham Young](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/brigham-young/)
- [Exaltation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/exaltation/)
- [Godhood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/godhood/)
- [Michael](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/michael/)
- [Spirit Birth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spirit-birth/)
- [Lamentation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lamentation/)
- [Pain](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pain/)
- [Pastoral Care](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pastoral-care/)
- [authority](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/authority/)
- [Best Practices](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/best-practices/)
- [Church Programs](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/church-programs/)
- [Gender Messages](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gender-messages/)
- [Worthiness Interviews](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/worthiness-interviews/)
- [chastity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/chastity/)
- [Morals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/morals/)
- [Virtue](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/virtue/)
- [Young Adult](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/young-adult/)
- [Couplet](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/couplet/)
- [Divinization](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/divinization/)
- [Lorenzo Snow](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lorenzo-snow/)
- [2013 Scriptures](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/2013-scriptures/)
- [Bible](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/bible/)
- [Official Declaration 1](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/official-declaration-1/)
- [Official Declaration 2](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/official-declaration-2/)
- [atheism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/atheism/)
- [C.S. Lewis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/c-s-lewis/)
- [Chaplaincy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/chaplaincy/)
- [Chaplains](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/chaplains/)
- [Counseling](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/counseling/)
- [Inter-faith Ministry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/inter-faith-ministry/)
- [Military Service](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/military-service/)
- [Adventure](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adventure/)
- [Faith and Reason](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-and-reason/)
- [Spiritual awakening](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-awakening/)
- [afterlife](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/afterlife/)
- [dualism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dualism/)
- [Mind-Body Connection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mind-body-connection/)
- [NDE](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/nde/)
- [Affinity Fraud](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/affinity-fraud/)
- [Faithful history](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faithful-history/)
- [Manti Te’o](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/manti-teo/)
- [Pacific Islander identity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pacific-islander-identity/)
- [Religious Idealism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/religious-idealism/)
- [Role model](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/role-model/)
- [Centering Prayer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/centering-prayer/)
- [Inner Path](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/inner-path/)
- [Kingdom of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/kingdom-of-god/)
- [Natural Man](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/natural-man/)
- [Spiritual Discipline](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-discipline/)
- [Alfred North Whitehead](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/alfred-north-whitehead/)
- [Charles Hartshorne](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/charles-hartshorne/)
- [Classical Theism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/classical-theism/)
- [Intelligences](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/intelligences/)
- [Interconnectedness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interconnectedness/)
- [Intrinsic Value](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/intrinsic-value/)
- [Panexperientialism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/panexperientialism/)
- [Manger](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/manger/)
- [Pre-mortality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pre-mortality/)
- [Universal salvation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/universal-salvation/)
- [Empiricism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/empiricism/)
- [Metaphysics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/metaphysics/)
- [NOMA](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/noma/)
- [Richness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/richness/)
- [Curse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/curse/)
- [racism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/racism/)
- [Righteousness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/righteousness/)
- [Secularism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/secularism/)
- [Skin Color](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/skin-color/)
- [Energy work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/energy-work/)
- [Goddess](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/goddess/)
- [Hybrid Spirituality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hybrid-spirituality/)
- [Pagan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pagan/)
- [Spiritual Supplements](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-supplements/)
- [identity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/identity/)
- [Law of Health](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/law-of-health/)
- [Word of Wisdom](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/word-of-wisdom/)
- [missions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/missions/)
- [rites of passage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/rites-of-passage/)
- [Sister Missionaries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sister-missionaries/)
- [Women’s Leadership](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/womens-leadership/)
- [narrative](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/narrative/)
- [Collective](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/collective/)
- [Exclusivism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/exclusivism/)
- [OneTrueChurch](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/onetruechurch/)
- [Organization](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/organization/)
- [Holy Spirit](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/holy-spirit/)
- [Transformation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/transformation/)
- [works](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/works/)
- [Citizenship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/citizenship/)
- [Conservatism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/conservatism/)
- [Government](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/government/)
- [progressivism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/progressivism/)
- [Society](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/society/)
- [Ascent Literature](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ascent-literature/)
- [Eleusinian Rites](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/eleusinian-rites/)
- [Sacred](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sacred/)
- [Secret](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/secret/)
- [Trustworthiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/trustworthiness/)
- [Emergence Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/emergence-christianity/)
- [Emergent Church](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/emergent-church/)
- [Great Emergence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/great-emergence/)
- [Liturgy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/liturgy/)
- [gospel](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/gospel/)
- [Inner city](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/inner-city/)
- [international](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/international/)
- [Middle Class](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/middle-class/)
- [Urban](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/urban/)
- [Comfort](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/comfort/)
- [Free Will Defense](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/free-will-defense/)
- [Soul-making](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/soul-making/)
- [Biblical criticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/biblical-criticism/)
- [Fact](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fact/)
- [inspiration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/inspiration/)
- [interpretation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interpretation/)
- [Brazil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/brazil/)
- [Brazilian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/brazilian/)
- [Experience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/experience/)
- [Earth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/earth/)
- [Ecology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ecology/)
- [Spirit and Matter](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spirit-and-matter/)
- [Stewardship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/stewardship/)
- [Sustainability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sustainability/)
- [ancestors](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ancestors/)
- [Handcart treks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/handcart-treks/)
- [Idealized Narratives](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/idealized-narratives/)
- [Mormon Trail](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-trail/)
- [Mythologizing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mythologizing/)
- [pioneer day](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pioneer-day/)
- [pioneers](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pioneers/)
- [Family Acceptance Project](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/family-acceptance-project/)
- [Family Fellowship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/family-fellowship/)
- [Family Support](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/family-support/)
- [Resources](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/resources/)
- [Boundaries](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/boundaries/)
- [Victimization](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/victimization/)
- [Savior](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/savior/)
- [canon](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/canon/)
- [Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/development/)
- [Discourse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/discourse/)
- [Teachings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/teachings/)
- [Orthodoxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/orthodoxy/)
- [Orthopraxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/orthopraxy/)
- [questioning](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/questioning/)
- [9/11](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/911/)
- [Circumcision](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/circumcision/)
- [pragmatism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pragmatism/)
- [Strenuous Mood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/strenuous-mood/)
- [accountability](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/accountability/)
- [pressure](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/pressure/)
- [change](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/change/)
- [Middle Way](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/middle-way/)
- [Marlin K. Jensen](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/marlin-k-jensen/)
- [Professionalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/professionalism/)
- [Sacred History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sacred-history/)
- [Mental Illness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mental-illness/)
- [suicide](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/suicide/)
- [Children of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/children-of-god/)
- [GLBTI](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/glbti/)
- [Heavenly Parents](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/heavenly-parents/)
- [Intersex](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/intersex/)
- [Kinship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/kinship/)
- [Artistic Expression](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/artistic-expression/)
- [censorship](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/censorship/)
- [Cleanflix](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cleanflix/)
- [editing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/editing/)
- [Hollywood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hollywood/)
- [Violence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/violence/)
- [celibacy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/celibacy/)
- [dating](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dating/)
- [divorce](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/divorce/)
- [Mid-Singles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mid-singles/)
- [singles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/singles/)
- [Singles Wards](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/singles-wards/)
- [Bi-culturalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/bi-culturalism/)
- [Colonialism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/colonialism/)
- [Maori](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/maori/)
- [Performing culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/performing-culture/)
- [Polynesian](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/polynesian/)
- [Polynesian Cultural Center](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/polynesian-cultural-center/)
- [The Other Side of Heaven](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/the-other-side-of-heaven/)
- [Tongan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tongan/)
- [Family Relationships](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/family-relationships/)
- [Individuals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/individuals/)
- [Negotiating Tensions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/negotiating-tensions/)
- [Humility](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/humility/)
- [Mixed-faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mixed-faith/)
- [Unorthodoxy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/unorthodoxy/)
- [Ward](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ward/)
- [Evolution](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/evolution/)
- [Singularity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/singularity/)
- [Transhumanism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/transhumanism/)
- [blacks](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/blacks/)
- [priesthood ban](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/priesthood-ban/)
- [TempleBan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/templeban/)
- [Brain Functioning](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/brain-functioning/)
- [Cognitive Bias](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cognitive-bias/)
- [emotion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/emotion/)
- [personal revelation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/personal-revelation/)
- [psychology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/psychology/)
- [Redemption](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/redemption/)
- [Parable](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/parable/)
- [Dissafection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dissafection/)
- [Patriarchal Blessings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/patriarchal-blessings/)
- [Blessings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/blessings/)
- [Happiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/happiness/)
- [Prayer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/prayer/)
- [Philosophy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/philosophy/)
- [Legend](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/legend/)
- [Satan](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/satan/)
- [Fatherhood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fatherhood/)
- [Obedience](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/obedience/)
- [Wealth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/wealth/)
- [Cult](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cult/)
- [Blood Atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/blood-atonement/)
- [Capital Punishment](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/capital-punishment/)
- [Student Review](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/student-review/)
- [Newspaper](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/newspaper/)
- [Motherhood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/motherhood/)
- [Tradition](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/tradition/)
- [Immigration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/immigration/)
- [Theater](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/theater/)
- [Honor Code](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/honor-code/)
- [Divine Collaboration](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/divine-collaboration/)
- [Fiona Givens](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/fiona-givens/)
- [Terryl Givens](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/terryl-givens/)
- [Dying](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dying/)
- [Hospice Care](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/hospice-care/)
- [Intensive Care](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/intensive-care/)
- [Spiritual Work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-work/)
- [Dreams](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dreams/)
- [Visions](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/visions/)
- [Baptism for the Dead](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/baptism-for-the-dead/)
- [Young Men](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/young-men/)
- [Young Women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/young-women/)
- [Primary](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/primary/)
- [New Year](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/new-year/)
- [2018](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/2018/)
- [Creative Tension](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/creative-tension/)
- [Faith Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faith-development/)
- [Myth and Ritual](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/myth-and-ritual/)
- [Religious Community](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/religious-community/)
- [Cosmo-centrism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/cosmo-centrism/)
- [Mortality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mortality/)
- [Contemplation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/contemplation/)
- [Spiritual Practice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/spiritual-practice/)
- [First Presidency](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/first-presidency/)
- [Quorum of the Twelve Apostles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/quorum-of-the-twelve-apostles/)
- [Russell M Nelson](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/russell-m-nelson/)
- [Henry B Eyring](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/henry-b-eyring/)
- [Dieter F Uchtdorf](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/dieter-f-uchtdorf/)
- [Callings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/callings/)
- [Common Consent](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/common-consent/)
- [Leadership Roulette](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/leadership-roulette/)
- [Agreement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/agreement/)
- [Loyalty](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/loyalty/)
- [Faithfulness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/faithfulness/)
- [Shadow](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/shadow/)
- [Shadow Work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/shadow-work/)
- [Shadow Practice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/shadow-practice/)
- [Jesus of Nazareth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/jesus-of-nazareth/)
- [Search for the Historical Jesus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/search-for-the-historical-jesus/)
- [Systemic Injustice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/systemic-injustice/)
- [Interviewing](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/interviewing/)
- [Ecclesiastical Abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ecclesiastical-abuse/)
- [Protecting Ourselves](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/protecting-ourselves/)
- [Protecting Children and Teens](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/protecting-children-and-teens/)
- [Scriptural Interpretation](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/scriptural-interpretation/)
- [Exegesis](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/exegesis/)
- [Love of God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/love-of-god/)
- [Perfection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/perfection/)
- [\](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/3064/)
- [LDS Theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-theology/)
- [LDS Practice](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/lds-practice/)
- [Social and Psychological Dynamics of Group Interaction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/social-and-psychological-dynamics-of-group-interaction/)
- [Finding Peace](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/finding-peace/)
- [Human Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/human-development/)
- [Child Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/child-development/)
- [Adult Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/adult-development/)
- [Sexual Abuse Scandal](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/sexual-abuse-scandal/)
- [MTC](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mtc/)
- [Joseph Bishop](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/joseph-bishop/)
- [Policy Changes](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/policy-changes/)
- [Mormon Matters Workshops and Retreats](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mormon-matters-workshops-and-retreats/)
- [Solemn Assembly](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/solemn-assembly/)
- [New Apostles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/new-apostles/)
- [Melchizedek Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/melchizedek-priesthood/)
- [Home Teaching](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/home-teaching/)
- [Visiting Teaching](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/visiting-teaching/)
- [Ministering](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/ministering/)
- [Will of the Lord](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/will-of-the-lord/)
- [Rhetoric](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/rhetoric/)
- [Women's Roles](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/womens-roles/)
- [Mental Health](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mental-health/)
- [Therapy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/therapy/)
- [Mus](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-tag/mus/)

## Portfolio Categories

- [Apologetics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/apologetics/)
- [Abuse](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/abuse/)
- [General Conference](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/general-conference/)
- [History](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/history/)
- [Homosexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/homosexuality/)
- [Relief Society](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/relief-society/)
- [Priesthood](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/priesthood/)
- [Retreat](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/retreat/)
- [Natural Disaster](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/natural-disaster/)
- [Faith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/faith/)
- [Revelations](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/revelations/)
- [Theology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/theology/)
- [Community](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/community/)
- [Sunstone](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/sunstone/)
- [Mentors](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/mentors/)
- [Women](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/women/)
- [Science](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/science/)
- [Scouting](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/scouting/)
- [Confidence](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/confidence/)
- [Covenants](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/covenants/)
- [Spirituality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/spirituality/)
- [LGBTQ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/lgbtq/)
- [Teaching](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/teaching/)
- [Christianity](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/christianity/)
- [Jesus Christ](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/jesus-christ/)
- [Joseph Smith](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/joseph-smith/)
- [God](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/god/)
- [Depression](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/depression/)
- [Communication](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/communication/)
- [Pornography](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/pornography/)
- [Addiction](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/addiction/)
- [Marriage](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/marriage/)
- [Scripture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/scripture/)
- [Atonement](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/atonement/)
- [Mormon Life](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/mormon-life/)
- [Polygamy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/polygamy/)
- [Forgiveness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/forgiveness/)
- [Apocalypticism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/apocalypticism/)
- [Sexuality](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/sexuality/)
- [Mythology](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/mythology/)
- [Classic Mormon Writings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/classic-mormon-writings/)
- [Testimony](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/testimony/)
- [Holy Ghost](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/holy-ghost/)
- [Worthiness](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/worthiness/)
- [Activism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/activism/)
- [Baptism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/baptism/)
- [Film](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/film/)
- [Excommunication](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/excommunication/)
- [Ordinances](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/ordinances/)
- [Temple](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/temple/)
- [Missionary Work](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/missionary-work/)
- [Apostasy](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/apostasy/)
- [Feminism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/feminism/)
- [Freemasonry](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/freemasonry/)
- [Prophets](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/prophets/)
- [Politics](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/politics/)
- [Race](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/race/)
- [Grief and Suffering](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/grief-and-suffering/)
- [Social Media](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/social-media/)
- [Truth](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/truth/)
- [Doctrine](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/doctrine/)
- [Personal Essays](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/personal-essays/)
- [Environmentalism](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/environmentalism/)
- [Mormon Culture](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/mormon-culture/)
- [Disaffection](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/disaffection/)
- [Church Leadership](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/church-leadership/)
- [Intellectuals](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/intellectuals/)
- [Mormon & Gospel Teachings](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/mormon-gospel-teachings/)
- [Top 10](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/top-10/)
- [Faith Development](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/faith-development/)
- [Evil](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/evil/)
- [Prayer](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/prayer/)
- [Religion](https://www.mormonmatters.org/podcast-item-category/religion/)