Mormon Stories - LDS

In this episode we interview Utah attorney Mark Pugsley.  Mark specializes in securities litigation, and discusses the culture of financial fraud within Utah Mormonism.

Direct download: Mormon_Stories-606-MormonFinancialFraud.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:05pm MDT

In this episode Jamie Hanis Handy assembles an amazing panel (Natasha Helfer Parker, Dr. Kristy Money, and Dr. Gina Colvin) to discuss the recent LDS church essay entitled: "Joseph Smith’s Teachings about Priesthood, Temple, and Women."

Direct download: MormonStories-605-WomenPriesthoodEssay.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:35pm MDT

As progressive and post-Mormons continue to leave the LDS church in increasing numbers, many former LDS church members miss the sense of community that they once enjoyed as active Mormons.

Oasis is a network of secular communities that meet weekly (on Sundays), organized according to the following values:

1) People are more important than beliefs.
2) Reality is known through reason.
3) Meaning comes from making a difference
4) Human hands solve human problems.
5) Be accepting and be accepted.

Currently the Oasis Network has two thriving communities:

Houston Oasis: http://houstonoasis.org
Kansas City Oasis: http://KCoasis.org

Also, a new community in under development in Boston: http://bostonoasis.org

In this episode we interview the two founders of Oasis: Mike Aus of Oasis Houston, and Helen Stringer of Oasis Kansas City.

Direct download: MT-005-Oasis.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:10am MDT

Daniel Miller worked for the LDS Church for two years as a Program Manager in the Publishing Services Department. During this time he oversaw all media production for seminary and institute (CES portfolio, broadcasts).  In this three-part series, Daniel and his wife AnnaMarie discuss his early years as a church member in Idaho and as a missionary in Japan, his time as an LDS Church employee, and the factors that led him and his family away from LDS Church activity.

Direct download: MormonStories-603-DanielMillerPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:34am MDT

Daniel Miller worked for the LDS Church for two years as a Program Manager in the Publishing Services Department. During this time he oversaw all media production for seminary and institute (CES portfolio, broadcasts).  In this three-part series, Daniel and his wife AnnaMarie discuss his early years as a church member in Idaho and as a missionary in Japan, his time as an LDS Church employee, and the factors that led him and his family away from LDS Church activity.

Direct download: MormonStories-602-DanielMillerPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:32am MDT

Daniel Miller worked for the LDS Church for two years as a Program Manager in the Publishing Services Department. During this time he oversaw all media production for seminary and institute (CES portfolio, broadcasts).  In this three-part series, Daniel and his wife AnnaMarie discuss his early years as a church member in Idaho and as a missionary in Japan, his time as an LDS Church employee, and the factors that led him and his family away from LDS Church activity.

Direct download: MormonStories-601-DanielMillerPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:31am MDT

On September 27, 2015 the first Community of Good Sunday meeting was held in Logan, UT at the Cache Valley Unitarian Universalist church building.  This post includes audio from this first meeting, including a presentation by Dr. John Dehlin, wherein he lays out a starting vision for the Community of Good.

Direct download: COG-001.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 8:37am MDT

Mindy Gledhill Bus Tour077

This podcast is Part 3 of a Mormon Stories and A Thoughtful Faith Collaboration.

Mindy Gledhill is an American indie pop music singer-song writer. She has five albums, the Sum of all Grace, Anchor, Winter Moon and Pocketful of Poetry and has collaborated on many others.  Mindy’s music appears in film, television and commercials. Its has been described as ‘tender, emotional, intelligent, and touchingly auto-biographical, fun flirty and heartfelt.’ 

Her vocal style is warm and rich;  each of her songs attest to the tremendous talent she has as both a musician and a lyricist.  She’s also innovative and entrepreneurial and in 2012 was recognized as one of “Utah’s 40 Under 40” in the Utah Valley Business Q Magazine.

But Mindy also has a rich life story. Born into a large Mormon family she grew up in a faith tradition that could not keep up with her growing awareness of gender inequality and patriarchy.

Mindy joins Gina to discuss her life, her work, her family and her personal gender politics.

In Parts One and Two of the series John Dehlin interviewed pop artist Mindy Gledhill and classical pianist Dustin Gledhill regarding their new electronic synth-pop project called Hive Riot. In Part 3 A Thoughtful Faith podcast host Gina Colvin interviews Mindy about her faith, women’s issues, and other dimensions of Mindy’s experiences as a woman, mother, wife, pop artist, Mormon, and human.

In Part 1 John explores Mindy and Dustin’s respective stories as Mormons, along with their careers as successful musical performing artists.  Dustin also discusses his difficulties as a gay Mormon (including his attempts to change his sexual orientation, driving him to the point of suicide), and Mindy discusses her journey to become an LGBT ally (partially through Dustin’s influence).   In Part 2we discuss the Hive Riot project (which is the perfect Christmas Gift for this holiday season…along with Mindy’s Christmas album).

Direct download: MormonStories-599-MindyGledhillATF.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:40am MDT

Jared Anderson speaks on the topic of Religious Humanism at the Community of Good - Cache Valley Sunday service on 12/6/2015.

Direct download: CommunityOfGoodCV-JaredAnderson-12-06-2015.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:37am MDT

In this three-part series I interview Mindy and Dustin Gledhill about their new electronic synth-pop album/project called "Hive Riot."

In Part 1 we explore Mindy and Dustin's stories and careers as Mormons and as performing artists.

In Part 2 we discuss the Hive Riot project.

In Part 3, A Thoughtful Faith podcast host Gina Colvin interviews Mindy about her faith, women's issues, and other dimensions of Mindy's experiences.

Direct download: MormonStories-598-MindyDustinGledhillPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:01am MDT

In this three-part series I interview Mindy and Dustin Gledhill about their new electronic synth-pop album/project called "Hive Riot."

In Part 1 we explore Mindy and Dustin's stories and careers as Mormons and as performing artists.

In Part 2 we discuss the Hive Riot project.

In Part 3, A Thoughtful Faith podcast host Gina Colvin interviews Mindy about her faith, women's issues, and other dimensions of Mindy's experiences.

Direct download: MormonStories-597-MindyDustinGledhillPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:51am MDT

In this episode former LDS Bishop Bill Reel returns to Mormon Stories to discuss his falling out with the LDS apologetic group FAIR (including his conflict with pugilistic apologist Brian Hales), and his faithful dissent from the LDS Church over its recent policy regarding "Same-Gender Relationships."

Bill Reel is the host of Mormon Discussion podcast.

Direct download: MormonStories-596-BillReel2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:30am MDT

Alison Udall is the co-founder and main force behind Mormon Spectrum - a web site dedicated to supporting Mormons across the belief spectrum with content and community.  Mormon Spectrum can accessed here: http://mormonspectrum.org.

Direct download: MormonStories-595-AlisonUdallPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:17pm MDT

Alison Udall is the co-founder and main force behind Mormon Spectrum - a web site dedicated to supporting Mormons across the belief spectrum with content and community.  Mormon Spectrum can accessed here: http://mormonspectrum.org.

Direct download: MormonStories-594-AlisonUdallPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:10pm MDT

On today's Savage Lovecast (hosted by Dan Savage), LDS Jeopardy champion Ken Jennings publicly denounced the recent LDS Church policy changes regarding same-gender relationships and children.  This is the excerpt.

Direct download: KenJenningsDanSavageSSR-11-24-2015.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:35pm MDT

For this Mormon Stories Podcast episode a distinguished panel reviews a newly released LDS mission memoir entitled, "The Book of A Mormon," co-written by world renowned psychologists Dr. Scott Miller and Dr. Mark Hubble.  This enjoyable and thoughtful book chronicles Dr. Miller's mission to Sweden in the late 1970s, and is a fascinating and detailed history of correlation-era LDS missionary service.

Joining us to review the book are several panelists: Hans Mattsson (former LDS Area Authority from Sweden), Julienna Viegas-Haws (native of Belgium), Jennie Dendy (served mission in Finland), and Kirk Kinsey (Mark's son).

We all consider this to be a very important book, and we hope you enjoy reading.

Direct download: MormonStories-593-BookOfAMormon.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:47pm MDT

In this three-part podcast I interview Stephen M. Veazey, prophet-president of Community of Christ (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints).

Direct download: MormonStories-592-SteveVeazeyPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 7:04am MDT

In this three-part podcast I interview Stephen M. Veazey, prophet-president of Community of Christ (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints).

Direct download: MormonStories-591-SteveVeazeyPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 7:02am MDT

In this three-part podcast I interview Stephen M. Veazey, prophet-president of Community of Christ (formerly the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints).

Direct download: MormonStories-590-SteveVeazeyPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 7:01am MDT

12233222_10153252360531593_1963455529_n

Laura Roper Andreasen is the granddaughter of LDS Apostle M. Russell Ballard.  Recently Laura resigned her membership in the LDS Church after struggling unsuccessfully for decades to find happiness and health as an active, believing Latter-day Saint (e.g., serving an LDS mission, marrying in the temple, having children).  In this vulnerable, thoughtful, respectful, and heartfelt two-part interview, Laura discusses the following:

  • The deep love and respect she has for her parents, grandparents, and Mormon heritage.
  • Her struggles as a child, teenager, and adult with:
    • What she experienced to be a culture of perfectionism and shame in the LDS church.
    • A family and church culture of avoiding emotional vulnerability and the open discussion of difficult topics.
    • The added difficulty/burden/pressure of being a direct descendant of Hyrum Smith and the grandchild of an LDS Apostle (within LDS culture).
  • Her struggle with low self worth, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation for multiple decades.
  • Her complex relationship with Grandpa Ballard, who (from her perspective) struggled to balance his role as an apostle with his role as grandfather.
  • Her perspective on what it is like to be an LDS Apostle, answering many questions for Mormon Stories listeners.
  • Her reasons for leaving the LDS Church after being unable to find joy within it.

To read from Laura's blog, click here.

Part 1 (Laura's Story):

 

 

 

Part 2 (Q&A):

 

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-589-LauraRoperAndreasenPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:39pm MDT

12233222_10153252360531593_1963455529_n

Laura Roper Andreasen is the granddaughter of LDS Apostle M. Russell Ballard.  Recently Laura resigned her membership in the LDS Church after struggling unsuccessfully for decades to find happiness and health as an active, believing Latter-day Saint (e.g., serving an LDS mission, marrying in the temple, having children).  In this vulnerable, thoughtful, respectful, and heartfelt two-part interview, Laura discusses the following:

  • The deep love and respect she has for her parents, grandparents, and Mormon heritage.
  • Her struggles as a child, teenager, and adult with:
    • What she experienced to be a culture of perfectionism and shame in the LDS church.
    • A family and church culture of avoiding emotional vulnerability and the open discussion of difficult topics.
    • The added difficulty/burden/pressure of being a direct descendant of Hyrum Smith and the grandchild of an LDS Apostle (within LDS culture).
  • Her struggle with low self worth, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation for multiple decades.
  • Her complex relationship with Grandpa Ballard, who (from her perspective) struggled to balance his role as an apostle with his role as grandfather.
  • Her perspective on what it is like to be an LDS Apostle, answering many questions for Mormon Stories listeners.
  • Her reasons for leaving the LDS Church after being unable to find joy within it.

To read from Laura's blog, click here.

Part 1 (Laura's Story):

 

 

 

Part 2 (Q&A):

 

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-588-LauraRoperAndreasenPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:24pm MDT

Today the LDS Church released a clarification to the new policies on same-gender marriage and children.  Michael Otterson (Managing Director of LDS Church Public Relations) also released a memo entitled "Understanding the Handbook."

To analyze the clarification and memo, have have assembled a panel of brilliant humans: John Hamer, Debra Jensen, James Ord, and Daniel Parkinson.

Direct download: MormonStories-587-SGAClarificationPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:26pm MDT

Today the LDS Church released a clarification to the new policies on same-gender marriage and children.  Michael Otterson (Managing Director of LDS Church Public Relations) also released a memo entitled "Understanding the Handbook."

To analyze the clarification and memo, have have assembled a panel of brilliant humans: John Hamer, Debra Jensen, James Ord, and Daniel Parkinson.

Direct download: MormonStories-586-SGAClarificationPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:24pm MDT

Eric Reeves is the son of LDS Relief Society General Presidency 2nd counselor Linda S. Reeves.

In this episode Eric discusses:

1) his early years in the church, his loss of faith in the LDS church, and how he handled this process with his family,

2) his analysis of the recent changes, and why he vehemently opposes the parallels made between same-sex marriage and polygamy,

3) why he is speaking out publicly against the new LGBT policies, and

4) why he is encouraging church members to openly oppose these policies.

Direct download: MormonStories-585-EricReeves.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:56am MDT

News broke last week that the LDS Church was adopting new policies aimed at married same-sex couples and their children. Mormons in a same-sex marriage will now be considered apostates and could be subject to disciplinary hearings and excommunication. Their children, meanwhile, will be barred from many of the faith’s sacred rituals, unless they get permission from church’s highest leaders. Monday, a panel of guests joined us to discuss the impacts and ramifications of these new church policies.

GUESTS

  • Jennifer Dobner is a journalist at the Salt Lake Tribune where she covers health care reform, Mormonism, polygamy, justice issues and more.
  • John Dehlin has a Ph.D. in psychology from Utah State University, focusing on religion, mental health, and the LGBT Mormon experience. he co-led the largest study ever conducted on LGBT Mormons that has been published in numerous scientific, peer reviewed journals, including the APA's Journal of Counseling Psychology. He also produces and hosts the Mormon Stories podcast. He was excommunicated from the LDS Church in January of 2015. He was credited in several news reports for leaking information about the Church’s new policy on married same-sex Mormons and their children.
  • Kendall Wilcox is an openly gay and active Mormon. He’s a co-founder of Mormons Building Bridges, a group that works to build understanding between members of the LDS Church and the LGBT community. He’s currently producing a documentary film about the experience of LGBT Mormons. It’s called Far Between.
  • Mitch Mayne is an openly gay, active Mormon who served as executive secretary in the LDS bishopric in San Francisco through 2013.
Direct download: rw110915.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:30am MDT

In this episode we discuss the recent changes to LDS Handbook 1 regarding LGBT members who enter into same-gender relationships, and their children.  Panelists include Natasha Helfer Parker, Dr. Kristy Money, Dr. J. Nelson Seawright, and Dr. John Dehlin.

Direct download: MormonStories-583-SGAPolicyChange.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:33pm MDT

In this episode Steve and Chris Holbrook discuss the lessons they have learned in helping to lead/grow the Utah Valley Post-Mormon community to an organization of over 1,400 members, with weekly activities, and very high levels of community support, participation, and satisfaction.

Direct download: MormonTransitions-002-HolbrooksUVPM.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:27am MDT

In this episode Steve and Chris Holbrook discuss their early years in the LDS Church, their disaffection from the LDS Church, and their discovery of the Utah Valley Post-Mormon community as a positive influence in their post-Mormon life.

Direct download: MormonStories-581-HolbrooksPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:22am MDT

In today's episode a wonderful panel of women review the recent LDS Church "Mother in Heaven" essay.  Panelists include: Jamie Hanis Handy, Natasha Helfer Parker, Dr. Kristy Money, and Carol Lynn Pearson.

Direct download: MormonStories-580-MotherInHeavenEssay.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:15pm MDT

In this episode sociologist and scholar Mark Juergensmeyer, Ph.D. explains his reasons for boycotting Brigham Y0ung University over its policy to expell LDS students who lose their testimony of the LDS Church's truthfulness.

 

 

 

The text of Dr. Juergensmeyer's letter is as follows:

Prof Elizabeth Clark
Associate Director
International Center for Law and Religion Studies
Brigham Young University

Dear Elizabeth:

I regret that I will be unable to participate in the Law and Religion Symposium that is being held this week at BYU. It was an honor to be invited to speak at this event, and as you know I made every effort to make room in my schedule to be there on Tuesday. My decision not to participate is an act of conscience based on BYU’s policy of expelling any Mormon student who leaves the faith or converts to another religion.

Alas I was unaware of this policy until this weekend when it was brought to my attention. I have decided that it would be hypocritical of me to participate in a conference in which the issue of religious liberty is paramount when the institution sponsoring it fundamentally violates this principle in its policies towards Mormon students. As I understand it, non-Mormons are allowed to enroll in BYU, and they are welcome to convert to the Mormon faith if they wish, but if  Mormon students change their religious affiliation they lose their scholarship, their campus housing and jobs, and are expelled from school even if they are months away from graduation.

In making this decision I mean no disrespect to you, the Center with which you are affiliated, or the other participants in this week’s conference. I know that many faculty members at BYU are opposed to this policy and are quietly working to change it. I applaud them, and hope that my decision will be taken as a sign of support for those within BYU who are seeking change. I appreciation your dilemma and admire your persistence.

Again, thanks for the honor of the invitation. I hope that I will be invited back to BYU and will be able to accept some time in the future when this policy restricting religious freedom is lifted.

Sincerely,

Mark Juergensmeyer
Professor of Sociology and Global Studies
Founding Director and Fellow
Orfalea Center for Global and International Studies

A HUGE thanks to the amazing work of FreeBYU.org for breaking this important story.

Dr. Juergensmeyer is director of the Orfalea Center for Global and International Studies, professor of sociology and global studies, and affiliate professor of religious studies at the University of California, Santa Barbara. He is a pioneer in the field of global studies and writes on global religion, religious violence, conflict resolution and South Asian religion and politics. He has published more than three hundred articles and twenty books, including the recent Global Rebellion: Religious Challenges to the Secular State (University of California Press, 2008). Here you can see picturesof Mark, read his full bio , or his wikipedia entry

Direct download: MormonStories-579-MarkJuergensmeyerBoycottsBYU.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:47pm MDT

In this episode an EPIC panel reviews the October 2015 General Conference wherein: 

1) the LDS Church misses an incredibly important opportunity to fill 3 vacancies in the quorum of the 12 with a person of color, and instead selects (again) three white males from Utah, and 

2) the LDS Church doubles down on its "the Internet is evil," "doubting is bad," "choose to believe," and "stay in the boat" rhetoric.

Panelists for this conference review include Dr. Gina Colvin, Sean Carter, Andrew Ainsworth, and Jamie Hanis Handy.  These panelists are incredibly passionate, insightful and witty.  I hope you enjoy.

Direct download: LDSGenCon2015Pt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 8:58am MDT

In this episode an EPIC panel reviews the October 2015 General Conference wherein: 

1) the LDS Church misses an incredibly important opportunity to fill 3 vacancies in the quorum of the 12 with a person of color, and instead selects (again) three white males from Utah, and 

2) the LDS Church doubles down on its "the Internet is evil," "doubting is bad," "choose to believe," and "stay in the boat" rhetoric.

Panelists for this conference review include Dr. Gina Colvin, Sean Carter, Andrew Ainsworth, and Jamie Hanis Handy.  These panelists are incredibly passionate, insightful and witty.  I hope you enjoy.

Direct download: LDSGenCon2015Pt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 8:56am MDT

In this episode an EPIC panel reviews the October 2015 General Conference wherein:

1) the LDS Church misses an incredibly important opportunity to fill 3 vacancies in the quorum of the 12 with a person of color, and instead selects (again) three white males from Utah, and 

2) the LDS Church doubles down on its "the Internet is evil," "doubting is bad," "choose to believe," and "stay in the boat" rhetoric.

Panelists for this conference review include Dr. Gina Colvin, Sean Carter, Andrew Ainsworth, and Jamie Hanis Handy.  These panelists are incredibly passionate, insightful and witty.  I hope you enjoy.

Direct download: LDSGenCon2015Pt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 8:54am MDT

A presentation entitled "What I've Learned after 15 Years of Mormon Transitioning" delivered by Dr. John Dehlin at Utah Valley University on August 18, 2015.  Sponsored by the Utah Valley PostMormons.

Direct download: MormonTransitions-001-JohnDehlinUVUKeynote.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:15pm MDT

In this episode we interview Tanner Gilliland and Samantha Snyder.  Tanner was raised as an orthodox Mormon in Tucson, Arizona.  Samantha converted to the LDS Church in the U.K.  Both lived very orthodox LDS lives as millennials, attending BYU-Idaho as devout members, and interning for Deseret Book after graduating from BYU-I.  Samantha co-founded the web site Millennial Mormons.  

As Tanner and Samantha began to question the modern LDS Church, they briefly entertained the teachings of Denver Snuffer (Tanner was actually re-baptised according to Snuffer's teachings).  Earlier this year, both Tanner and Samantha left the LDS Church, and recently co-founded the new post-Mormon millennial blog called ZelphOnTheShelf.com.

As recent reports suggest that the LDS Church is losing its Millennial members at a rapid pace (see here and here), this interview begins to explore why.

Direct download: MormonStories-574-LosingMormonMillennialsPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:45am MDT

In this episode we interview Tanner Gilliland and Samantha Snyder.  Tanner was raised as an orthodox Mormon in Tucson, Arizona.  Samantha converted to the LDS Church in the U.K.  Both lived very orthodox LDS lives as millennials, attending BYU-Idaho as devout members, and interning for Deseret Book after graduating from BYU-I.  Samantha co-founded the web site Millennial Mormons.  

As Tanner and Samantha began to question the modern LDS Church, they briefly entertained the teachings of Denver Snuffer (Tanner was actually re-baptised according to Snuffer's teachings).  Earlier this year, both Tanner and Samantha left the LDS Church, and recently co-founded the new post-Mormon millennial blog called ZelphOnTheShelf.com.

As recent reports suggest that the LDS Church is losing its Millennial members at a rapid pace (see here and here), this interview begins to explore why.

Direct download: MormonStories-573-LosingMormonMillennialsPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:37am MDT

Healing and Growth after an LDS Crisis of Faith: Weekend Retreat
with John Dehlin, Ph.D.

  • Who: Progressive, Inactive, and Post-Mormons.  Couples and individuals welcome.
  • When: October 23-25, 2015 (Starts at 6pm on 10/23, ends at 4pm on 10/25)
  • Where: Park City, UT
  • Purposes of Retreat
    • Tips on healing and thriving after a loss of LDS faith.  Major topics include:
      • Rebuilding identity, morality, mental health, meaning, and purpose after losing faith.
      • Healthy communications with believing family and friends after losing faith.
      • Strengthening marriages after losing faith.
      • Raising children after losing faith.
      • Rebuilding friendships and community after losing faith.
      • Finding joy, meaning, and fulfillment after losing faith.
    • Building relationships and community with others like you.
  • Cost:
    • Suggested donation: $350/person. Donation does not cover meals/lodging.
    • Scholarships available based on need – please do NOT stay away because of financial need.  We will do our best to accommodate those who want to attend (until the slots fill up).  Email mormontransitions@gmail.com to request scholarship information.
    • All proceeds go to support Mormon Transitions.

To reserve your spot, visit: http://mormontransitions.org

Direct download: MT2015OctoberRetreat.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:06pm MDT

Announcing the Mormon Transitions Project.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIuN4GoOUeY

Direct download: MormonTransitions-001.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 8:51pm MDT

UnknownIn this episode, three geneticists respond to the LDS Essay "Book of Mormon and DNA Studies," and to Apologist Michael Ash's article entitled "The DNA Challenge to the Book of Mormon that Fizzled."  The respondents are as follows:
12011706_10207551637653918_1539143381_oJamie Hanis Handy has a B.S. in Zoology and an M.S. in Biological Science Education and Genetics from Brigham Young University. She is the mother of 5, a pianist, a photographer, and a lover of science, truth, and sensibility.  Jamie is the author of a recent article entitled "DNA and Mormonism."

Simon Southerton completed a PhD in plant science at the University of Sydney in 1989. For 15 years he worked at CSIRO, Australia’s national research organization, where he Unknown-1
led its forest genomics team. In 2014, in partnership with his brother Bob, he formed a CSIRO spin off company named Gondwana Genomics. Gondwana provides DNA testing services to tree breeders to enable them to select better trees when they are seedlings. Simon first encountered DNA research on Native Americans and Polynesians in 1998
while serving as a bishop in Brisbane, Australia. In response to Mormon apologetics in 2004 he published Losing a Lost Tribe, which explores the origins of Amerindian and Polynesian DNA and its implications for LDS beliefs arising from the Book of Mormon. Simon is married to Jane who is an English teacher/librarian. They live in Canberra along with their five wonderful offspring.  Simon's blog on DNA and Mormonism can be found here.

Eric Fairfield has a Ph.D. in moleular biology from State University of New York at Stony Brook. He is currently EricFairfieldfounder and owner of Cognitive Architectures for Learning, a company that understands cell by cell and synapse by synapse what learning and memory are and how to build devices from this knowledge. Eric has also run a number of church courses and seminar series bringing together science and religion. He is the proud father of a female nanotech physicist. He is also a geneticist and biochemist with expertise in genes and their enzymes across many organisms. When there is time, Eric is a swimmer, photographer and chef.

Direct download: MormonStories-571-BOMDNA.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 7:42pm MDT

In this two-part episode John Dehlin is interviewed by Dan Wotherspoon about his evolving perspectives on Mormonism, and on his upcoming "Mormon Transitions" project.

Direct download: MormonStories-570-DanWInterviewsJohnPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:54am MDT

In this two-part episode John Dehlin is interviewed by Dan Wotherspoon about his evolving perspectives on Mormonism, and on his upcoming "Mormon Transitions" project.

Direct download: MormonStories-569-DanWInterviewsJohnPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:42am MDT

Dan Wotherspoon, host of Mormon Matters podcast, reflects on 15 years of helping people try to find rich spirituality within Mormonism.

Direct download: MormonStories-567-DanWotherspoonPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:40am MDT

Dan Wotherspoon, host of Mormon Matters podcast, reflects on 15 years of helping people try to find rich spirituality within Mormonism.

Direct download: MormonStories-568-DanWotherspoonPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:40am MDT

Elder Ballard's 9/13/2015 Area Conference Talk

Direct download: Ballard-9-13-2015.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:24pm MDT

Scott-D-MillerIn this episode we interview Dr. Scott Miller.  Aside from being a world-renowned psychologist, Scott recently penned a fabulous book about his mission experience to Sweden in the 1970s.  The book is called "The Book of a Mormon: The Real Life and Strange Times of an LDS Missionary."

In this episode Scott discusses:

  • His early years in the church.
  • His mission experience to Sweden in the 1970s.
  • His path out of Mormonism after returning from his mission.
  • His work as a psychologist today.
  • His recommendations for healthy Mormon transitions, and for thriving as a post-Mormon.

In one month we will be re-launching "Mormon Stories Book Club," and will invite Dr. Miller back to Mormon Stories to discuss his book, along with former Swedish Area Authority Hans Mattsson and a panel of other listeners/readers.  If you are interested in the book, or in being part of the book club discussion, please purchase it at Amazon.com, read it over the coming weeks, please consider writing an Amazon review for the book, and then join us for our discussion of the book in one month's time.  Can't wait!

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-566-ScottMiller.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:42pm MDT

Julie Rowe and "Spencer" Energy Conference Call.

Direct download: julie_rowe_call_recording.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:49pm MDT

Julie Rowe is an active, believing Mormon, and is the author of two books: "A Greater Tomorrow: My Journey Beyond the Veil" and "The Time is Now."  In these books, Julie details her near-death experiences, wherein she claims to have received divinely inspired visions of the past, present, and future.

Julie and her peers/followers are heavily focused on the "Latter-day" aspects of Mormonism and Christianity, with a heavy emphasis on predicting pending global disasters in the United States and abroad.  Julie's prophesies (along with those of her peers) have led upwards of 10,000+ believing Mormons to make somewhat drastic life decisions including selling their homes, selling off their 401Ks, purchasing gold, and purchasing thousands of dollars worth of "preparatory materials" (e.g., food storage, tents, trailers, guns, ammunition) for the pending global demise, which is scheduled to begin in earnest in September of 2015.

Direct download: MormonStories-565-JulieRowe.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 7:44pm MDT

In this 2015 Sunstone Symposium presentation, Lindsay Hansen Park interviews me (John Dehlin) on the 10 year anniversary of Mormon Stories podcast.  Warning -- I get a bit emotion during this one....so listeners beware!

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-564-JohnAndLindsay.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:16pm MDT

Gina Colvin Interviews me (John Dehlin) on the 10th Anniversary of Mormon Stories Podcast.  We discuss my early years growing up in the church, my mission experience in Guatemala, my time at BYU during the early 1990s, my faith crisis while working at Microsoft, my 10 year journey with Mormon Stories Podcast, my excommunication earlier this year, and my thoughts/plans about the future (with Mormon Stories and Mormon Transitions).

Direct download: MormonStories-563-JohnGinaPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:26pm MDT

Gina Colvin Interviews me (John Dehlin) on the 10th Anniversary of Mormon Stories Podcast.  We discuss my early years growing up in the church, my mission experience in Guatemala, my time at BYU during the early 1990s, my faith crisis while working at Microsoft, my 10 year journey with Mormon Stories Podcast, my excommunication earlier this year, and my thoughts/plans about the future (with Mormon Stories and Mormon Transitions).

Direct download: MormonStories-562-JohnGinaPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:22pm MDT

Gina Colvin Interviews me (John Dehlin) on the 10th Anniversary of Mormon Stories Podcast.  We discuss my early years growing up in the church, my mission experience in Guatemala, my time at BYU during the early 1990s, my faith crisis while working at Microsoft, my 10 year journey with Mormon Stories Podcast, my excommunication earlier this year, and my thoughts/plans about the future (with Mormon Stories and Mormon Transitions).

Direct download: MormonStories-561-JohnGinaPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:20pm MDT

11891403_528200313115_7214367412887132989_oJ Seth Anderson and Michael Adam Ferguson were catapulted into the public spotlight when they became the first same-sex couple to be legally married by the state of Utah. Seth and Michael both grew up in LDS homes, completed full-time missions for the Church, and throughout their twenties, undertook tortuous journeys to renegotiate their relationships with both the institution and with the faith of their childhoods.

Seth and Michael recently completed their graduate work at the University of Utah--Seth finishing his master's degree in social history focusing on the history of sexuality in the Western United States, and Michael defending his PhD dissertation in bioengineering in which he developed new analytical methods for monitoring brain activity using fMRI.

Since November 2012, Seth and Michael have been embroiled in a first-of-its-kind lawsuit against a gay conversion therapy organization in New Jersey named JONAH: Jews Offering New Alternatives to Healing (formerly Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality), filed by the Southern Poverty Law Center. On June 25, 2015, a New Jersey jury unanimously found JONAH liable for multiple counts of consumer fraud and unconscionable business practices.

Seth and Michael are actively involved in education and advocacy on behalf of LGBT and queer individuals, including the project Team Truth--a grassroots campaign they are creating with advocates and allies to end the lies and harm of gay conversion therapy.

Direct download: MormonStories-560-SethAndMikePt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 7:40am MDT

11891403_528200313115_7214367412887132989_oJ Seth Anderson and Michael Adam Ferguson were catapulted into the public spotlight when they became the first same-sex couple to be legally married by the state of Utah. Seth and Michael both grew up in LDS homes, completed full-time missions for the Church, and throughout their twenties, undertook tortuous journeys to renegotiate their relationships with both the institution and with the faith of their childhoods.

Seth and Michael recently completed their graduate work at the University of Utah--Seth finishing his master's degree in social history focusing on the history of sexuality in the Western United States, and Michael defending his PhD dissertation in bioengineering in which he developed new analytical methods for monitoring brain activity using fMRI.

Since November 2012, Seth and Michael have been embroiled in a first-of-its-kind lawsuit against a gay conversion therapy organization in New Jersey named JONAH: Jews Offering New Alternatives to Healing (formerly Jews Offering New Alternatives to Homosexuality), filed by the Southern Poverty Law Center. On June 25, 2015, a New Jersey jury unanimously found JONAH liable for multiple counts of consumer fraud and unconscionable business practices.

Seth and Michael are actively involved in education and advocacy on behalf of LGBT and queer individuals, including the project Team Truth--a grassroots campaign they are creating with advocates and allies to end the lies and harm of gay conversion therapy.

Direct download: MormonStories-559-SethAndMikePt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 7:36am MDT

Building Progressive and Post-Mormon Communities based on Jonathan Haidt's The Righteous Mind with Dr. Dave Christian.

Direct download: MormonStories-558-DaveChristianCommunity.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:41am MDT

Dr. Dave Christian has served as a psychologist to believing and post-Mormons for decades.

In this episode, Dave begins by discussing his LDS pioneer ancestry, and his early years in the LDS church as a faithful, science-loving boy from St. George.  He then discusses early doubts he began to have regarding his LDS faith as he explored the field of epistemology (the study of how we know things).  In spite of these doubts, Dave chose to serve an LDS mission in the Australia Sydney Mission (1979 to 1981 timeframe), and during this time struggled with the pressure tactics employed by his mission president (Orson Wright).  Ultimately, to Dave's surprise, Orson Wright was removed from the mission for propositioning the sister missionaries of the mission to be his polygamous wives -- and the reasons for President Wright's removal from the mission were covered up by LDS Church leadership including Thomas S. Monson and Joseph B. Wirthlin.

This episode provides a fascinating look into the issues of: 1) how we come to feel as though we "know" things, and 2) how LDS church members (and members of other religious faiths) can be manipulated into claiming religious knowledge through emotional means.

 

Dr. Christian is available to provide psychotherapy in Utah, and Skype-based coaching outside of Utah. To contact Dr. Christian for an appointment, check out his contact information here.

Direct download: MormonStories-557-DaveChristianMission.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:18am MDT

Julienna Viegas-Haws has a fascinating story. Her mother is from the Belgian Congo. She was raised in Belgium. Her mother converted to the LDS Church when Julienna was a child, and credits the LDS church with saving her life. Julienna was raised a highly devout Mormon girl in Belgium, and served a mission on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah.

After a life of full devotion to the LDS Church, Julinenna began to experience cracks in her orthodoxy testimony when her husband began questioning/doubting the LDS Church's truth claims.

While Julienna remains committed to LDS Church activity, she recently penned an article with the Salt Lake Tribune entitled "What do progressive Mormons want? A dialogue about change."

In this two-part episode for Mormon Stories Podcast Julienna tells her story, and discusses possible changes that the LDS Church can make to become a healthier organization for its members.

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-556-JuliennaPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:19am MDT

Julienna Viegas-Haws has a fascinating story. Her mother is from the Belgian Congo. She was raised in Belgium. Her mother converted to the LDS Church when Julienna was a child, and credits the LDS church with saving her life. Julienna was raised a highly devout Mormon girl in Belgium, and served a mission on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah.

After a life of full devotion to the LDS Church, Julinenna began to experience cracks in her orthodoxy testimony when her husband began questioning/doubting the LDS Church's truth claims.

While Julienna remains committed to LDS Church activity, she recently penned an article with the Salt Lake Tribune entitled "What do progressive Mormons want? A dialogue about change."

In this two-part episode for Mormon Stories Podcast Julienna tells her story, and discusses possible changes that the LDS Church can make to become a healthier organization for its members.

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-555-JuliennaPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:11am MDT

On August 2, 2015 I was asked to deliver the sermon for the First Unitarian Church of Salt Lake City, Utah.  The topic was my experiences as a Mormon that led up to my excommunication.

Direct download: MormonStories-554-SLCFirstUnitarianChurchSermon.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:57am MDT

My appearance on the Friendly Atheist podcast with Hemant Mehta and Jessica Bluemke.

Hemant Mehta is the editor of Friendly Atheist, appears on the Atheist Voice channel on YouTube, and co-hosts the uniquely-named Friendly Atheist Podcast. He is a former National Board Certified high school math teacher in the suburbs of Chicago, where he taught for seven years.

Jessica Bluemke is a contributor to Friendly Atheist and a graduate of Ball State University. She lives on the north side of Chicago and performs stand-up comedy in her free time.

Direct download: Ep._67_-_John_Dehlin.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:01am MDT

seer-stone-joseph-smith-ensign-liahona-october-2015_1512979_inl

For decades, and heavily over the past ten years, Mormon historians, podcasters, and critics have been urging the LDS Church to be more open and honest about Joseph Smith's use of folk magic and a peep stone/hat in his production of the Book of Mormon text.

On August 4th, 2015 the LDS Church released the third volume of the Joseph Smith Papers, which includes the printer's manuscript of the Book of Mormon. It also released photos of the seer stone that Joseph Smith used as a scryer to search for buried treasure, and that he also placed in a hat to produce the text for the Book of Mormon.  (for detailed discussions of Joseph's use of a seer stone in the Book of Mormon's creation, see CES LetterMormon Think, or D. Michael Quinn's "Early Mormonism and the Magic World View."

An October 2015 Ensign article is set to appear called "Joseph the Seer" which attempts to explain Joseph's practice of using a seer stone.

In this episode John Hamer, J. Seawright, Micah Nickolaisen, Jamie Hanis Handy, and Jonathan Streeter join us to analyze these events.

Direct download: MormonStories-552-SeerStones.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:54am MDT

In this episode we interview Lindsay Hansen Park to discuss her experiences producing the Year of Polygamy podcast.

Direct download: MormonStories-551-LindsayHansenParkYOP.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 4:25pm MDT

famlight2Kristy Money is impressive on so many levels.

In this 3-part interview we discuss her early years growing up in the church in South Carolina, her intellectual awakening at BYU, her experiences as a psychologist, and her various efforts of Mormon activism, culminating in her now being silenced by her bishop, and threatened with church discipline.  She also discusses the incredibly high personal price she's paid for her work, which has led to almost complete isolation from her parents and siblings.  


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Direct download: MormonStories-550-KristyMoneyPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:14pm MDT

famlight2Kristy Money is impressive on so many levels.

In this 3-part interview we discuss her early years growing up in the church in South Carolina, her intellectual awakening at BYU, her experiences as a psychologist, and her various efforts of Mormon activism, culminating in her now being silenced by her bishop, and threatened with church discipline.  She also discusses the incredibly high personal price she's paid for her work, which has led to almost complete isolation from her parents and siblings.  


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Direct download: MormonStories-549-KristyMoneyPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:13pm MDT

famlight2Kristy Money is impressive on so many levels.

In this 3-part interview we discuss her early years growing up in the church in South Carolina, her intellectual awakening at BYU, her experiences as a psychologist, and her various efforts of Mormon activism, culminating in her now being silenced by her bishop, and threatened with church discipline.  She also discusses the incredibly high personal price she's paid for her work, which has led to almost complete isolation from her parents and siblings.  


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Direct download: MormonStories-548-KristyMoneyPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:12pm MDT

On June 25th My Book of Mormon podcast host David Michael came to Salt Lake City to discuss the conclusion of his reading the Book of Mormon from cover to cover.  The event was held at Squatter's Pub and was so heavily attended that people had to be turned away at the door.

Direct download: MormonStories-547-DavidMichaelMyBOM2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 10:13am MDT

An audio recording of a meeting held June 13th, 2015. Dallin H Oaks and Richard E Turley Jr. spoke to a congregation about church history and apostasy.

Direct download: BoiseRescueMission-06-13-2015.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:09am MDT

On June 3rd, 2015 Alan Rock Waterman (blogger at Pure Mormonism) was excommunicated from the LDS (Mormon) Church for blogging about his beliefs and differences with LDS Church policies.  In this episode Rock and his wife Connie retell the experience of his disciplinary council.

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-546-RockWatermanExcommunication.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:29pm MDT

Rock Waterman is a prominent Mormon blogger who maintains belief in all of the fundamental LDS Church truth claims (e.g., God, Jesus, Joseph Smith, Book of Mormon).  His beliefs are similar to those of Denver Snuffer, in that he believes that the modern, corporate LDS Church is  failing to follow the teachings of the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, and consequently has strayed from Christ's and Joseph Smith's core teachings.  

In this episode we discuss Rock Waterman's recent notice that he will be facing an LDS disciplinary council for apostasy on Wednesday evening June 3, 2015 at 7:30p.m. at the stake center at 2745 Eastern Ave. Sacramento, CA 95821.  

Interestingly, Rock has been told by his church leaders to stop blogging at his blog (Pure Mormonism), but these same leaders have acknowledged that they have not spent much time reading his writings, have been instructed by an LDS area authority to hold a disciplinary council on Rock, but have been unwilling to tell Rock which of his teachings or statements are problematic.

 

 

 

Direct download: MormonStories-545-RockWatermanPreDC.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:26pm MDT

Marisa and Carson tiscuss their excommunication from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on May 21, 2015.

Direct download: MormonStories-544-CalderwoodExcommunication.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:58am MDT

MMPT_GinaColvin_bioDr. Gina Colvin is an essential progressive Mormon voice in 2015 for many reasons:

  • She is a "multi-generation life long Mormon" with a multi-racial/international perspective on Mormonism.  Specifically, she is a New Zealander of Māori, English, Irish, Welsh, German and French descent.
  • She is a professor (i.e., lecturer) at the University of Canterbury, with an emphasis on "the history and future of ideas."
  • She is an insightful thinker and writer, and writes for a fantastic blog called KiwiMormon.  She also hosts the A Thoughtful Faith podcast.
  • She is an important and somewhat fearless voice for progressive Mormon thought, and advocates very publicly and strongly for issues such as female ordination (serving on the Ordain Women board), same-sex marriage, and intellectual freedom within the LDS Church.  She is also a staunch opponent of polygamy (including Section 132 of the Doctrine and Covenants), and of the recent round of excommunications within the LDS Church.
  • While retaining her activity in the LDS Church, she is an unflinching supporter of "Mormon heresy," and openly expresses doubt and/or disbelief regarding various orthodox LDS teachings including the idea of an anthropomorphic God, the LDS Church as the "One True Church," exclusive LDS priesthood authority, and the historicity of the Book of Mormon and the Book of Abraham.
  • She also has an incredibly fascinating story, which includes an adolescence of considerable trouble-making, a scandalous early divorce from her own bishop/husband, and several other stories of general delight and intrigue.

This is Gina's story.  I am certain that you will enjoy it immensely.

Direct download: MormonStories-543-GinaColvinPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:42pm MDT

MMPT_GinaColvin_bioDr. Gina Colvin is an essential progressive Mormon voice in 2015 for many reasons:

  • She is a "multi-generation life long Mormon" with a multi-racial/international perspective on Mormonism.  Specifically, she is a New Zealander of Māori, English, Irish, Welsh, German and French descent.
  • She is a professor (i.e., lecturer) at the University of Canterbury, with an emphasis on "the history and future of ideas."
  • She is an insightful thinker and writer, and writes for a fantastic blog called KiwiMormon.  She also hosts the A Thoughtful Faith podcast.
  • She is an important and somewhat fearless voice for progressive Mormon thought, and advocates very publicly and strongly for issues such as female ordination (serving on the Ordain Women board), same-sex marriage, and intellectual freedom within the LDS Church.  She is also a staunch opponent of polygamy (including Section 132 of the Doctrine and Covenants), and of the recent round of excommunications within the LDS Church.
  • While retaining her activity in the LDS Church, she is an unflinching supporter of "Mormon heresy," and openly expresses doubt and/or disbelief regarding various orthodox LDS teachings including the idea of an anthropomorphic God, the LDS Church as the "One True Church," exclusive LDS priesthood authority, and the historicity of the Book of Mormon and the Book of Abraham.
  • She also has an incredibly fascinating story, which includes an adolescence of considerable trouble-making, a scandalous early divorce from her own bishop/husband, and several other stories of general delight and intrigue.

This is Gina's story.  I am certain that you will enjoy it immensely.

Direct download: MormonStories-542-GinaColvinPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:40pm MDT

Taylor Knuth-Bishop was an active LDS Church member and seminary graduate who considered himself "heterosexual with same-sex attraction" until he met the love of his life, Sean Knuth-Bishop. Taylor and Sean fell in love and were eventually legally married during the now-famous 2014 Grammy performance wherein Macklemore, Madonna, and Queen Latifa married 33 same-sex couples during the performance of "Same Love."

Taylor and Sean have been living a happy life in New York City in the theatre industry, but recently (after moving home for the summer) Taylor was contacted by his LDS bishop and informed that he will be tried in a disciplinary council for the simple act of being legally same-sex married to Sean.  This is Taylor's story.

  • Here is a link to the engagement video mentioned in the interview:

 

 

 

  • Here is a link to the 2014 Grammy wedding ceremony.

 

 

 

  • Here is the letter Taylor received from his bishop, Morgan J. Roberts.

noname-2

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  • Information about Taylor's Art program for LGBT youth and young adults:

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Direct download: MormonStories-541-TaylorKnuth-Bishop.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:57pm MDT

Direct download: Resources_for_Dealing_with_Difficult_Issues_Leaders.docx
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:27pm MDT

DSC_0036This event, organized by Kate Kelly, was held in New York City on Saturday, April 25th, 6:30pm.  Billed as "A Curated Revue of Hilarious Tales from Mormondom," it entailed a delightful evening of Mormon (and post-Mormon) storytelling and humor.

  • Sean Carter: Harvard Law graduate and professional legal humorist (www.lawhumorist.com). Sean is the author of the first-ever comedic legal 
    treatise – “If It Does Not Fit, Must You Acquit?: Your Humorous Guide to the Law.” His syndicated legal humor column has appeared in general circulation newspapers in more than 30 states. Sean was baptized into the Mormon Church in May, 2011.
  • Jill Wagner: High school Spanish teacher and Story League Legend whose family comes from the Mormon colonies in Juarez, Mexico http://www.storyleague.org/legends/jill/.
  • Steven Puente: Licensed social worker practicing in a methadone clinic in Bronx, NY. Steven is a featured performer at The Moth (http://themoth.org/posts/storytellers/steven-puente), and Steven was featured in a New York Times story about young, hip Mormons (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/27/fashion/young-mormons-find-ways-to-be-hip.html).  
  • Troy Williams: Returned missionary, Executive Director of Equality Utah and unofficial 'gay Mayor of Salt Lake City.' Troy worked at 90.9 FM KRCL for 10 years and was the executive producer and host of RadioActive. In 2009 he co-wrote the one-woman show, The Passion of Sister Dottie S. Dixon, and was also the producer on the TLC original series Breaking the Faith.
  • Sara Burlingame: Faith organizer at the Human Rights Campaign, from Cheyenne, Wyoming and spends more time investing in the Mormon community than any never-mo…EVER! Sara has never been a Mormon, but she has been an artisan bread baker, a poet, a Bahai and an enthusiastic casserole consumer. She is a perma-blogger at Feminist Mormon Housewives, among other fabulous endeavors.
  • Elna Baker: writer and performer of humorous stories. Her stories have been featured on radio programs such as NPR’s This American Life, The Moth, BBC Radio 4 and Studio 360. Author of The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance: A Memoir.

DSC_0127-2DSC_0110DSC_0082DSC_0033DSC_0065DSC_0108DSC_0068DSC_0076DSC_0104

Direct download: MormonStories-540-HilariousTalesMormondom.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 11:10am MDT

tomphillipsIn June of 2012 I interviewed Tom Phillips, former LDS church stake president in London, England U.K.  In this interview he discusses the following:

  • His early experiences as a bishop and stake president in the LDS church, along with is friendship with LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland.
  • His experience receiving a secret/sacred LDS church ordinance called the "Second Anointing," wherein he was anointed by the hands of Elder M. Russel Ballard, and assured exaltation in there hereafter.
  • His subsequent loss of faith over historical and scientific issues with the church.
  • His direct correspondence with then friend, LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland, over these troubling issues.
  • The pain, suffering, and ultimate divorce that he and his family experienced as a result of his faith crisis.
  • Additional detail about Tom's story can be found here.

At the time I conducted this interview I was in deep discussions with my stake president, Mark Jensen, over my status with the church, and my ability to baptize my son.  Out of fear of church discipline, and as a sign of good will to President Jensen, I decided to not release this episode via Mormon Stories podcast, and instead granted permission to Tom to do with it as he saw fit.

Over the subsequent months and years I have come to regret this decision made largely out of fear, and want to publicly apologize to Tom for it.  I now feel it is appropriate to release this interview, not because I seek to show disrespect for the LDS church or its temple ordinances, but because Tom's story a very poignant example of the pain and suffering that can come about as many LDS members continue to experience legitimate struggles with the LDS church's truth claims.

Since this interview openly discusses secret/sacred LDS temple ordinances, listener discretion is strongly advised.

Direct download: MormonStories-539-TomPhillipsPt5.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:07am MDT

tomphillipsIn June of 2012 I interviewed Tom Phillips, former LDS church stake president in London, England U.K.  In this interview he discusses the following:

  • His early experiences as a bishop and stake president in the LDS church, along with is friendship with LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland.
  • His experience receiving a secret/sacred LDS church ordinance called the "Second Anointing," wherein he was anointed by the hands of Elder M. Russel Ballard, and assured exaltation in there hereafter.
  • His subsequent loss of faith over historical and scientific issues with the church.
  • His direct correspondence with then friend, LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland, over these troubling issues.
  • The pain, suffering, and ultimate divorce that he and his family experienced as a result of his faith crisis.
  • Additional detail about Tom's story can be found here.

At the time I conducted this interview I was in deep discussions with my stake president, Mark Jensen, over my status with the church, and my ability to baptize my son.  Out of fear of church discipline, and as a sign of good will to President Jensen, I decided to not release this episode via Mormon Stories podcast, and instead granted permission to Tom to do with it as he saw fit.

Over the subsequent months and years I have come to regret this decision made largely out of fear, and want to publicly apologize to Tom for it.  I now feel it is appropriate to release this interview, not because I seek to show disrespect for the LDS church or its temple ordinances, but because Tom's story a very poignant example of the pain and suffering that can come about as many LDS members continue to experience legitimate struggles with the LDS church's truth claims.

Since this interview openly discusses secret/sacred LDS temple ordinances, listener discretion is strongly advised.

Direct download: MormonStories-538-TomPhillipsPt4.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:06am MDT

tomphillipsIn June of 2012 I interviewed Tom Phillips, former LDS church stake president in London, England U.K.  In this interview he discusses the following:

  • His early experiences as a bishop and stake president in the LDS church, along with is friendship with LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland.
  • His experience receiving a secret/sacred LDS church ordinance called the "Second Anointing," wherein he was anointed by the hands of Elder M. Russel Ballard, and assured exaltation in there hereafter.
  • His subsequent loss of faith over historical and scientific issues with the church.
  • His direct correspondence with then friend, LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland, over these troubling issues.
  • The pain, suffering, and ultimate divorce that he and his family experienced as a result of his faith crisis.
  • Additional detail about Tom's story can be found here.

At the time I conducted this interview I was in deep discussions with my stake president, Mark Jensen, over my status with the church, and my ability to baptize my son.  Out of fear of church discipline, and as a sign of good will to President Jensen, I decided to not release this episode via Mormon Stories podcast, and instead granted permission to Tom to do with it as he saw fit.

Over the subsequent months and years I have come to regret this decision made largely out of fear, and want to publicly apologize to Tom for it.  I now feel it is appropriate to release this interview, not because I seek to show disrespect for the LDS church or its temple ordinances, but because Tom's story a very poignant example of the pain and suffering that can come about as many LDS members continue to experience legitimate struggles with the LDS church's truth claims.

Since this interview openly discusses secret/sacred LDS temple ordinances, listener discretion is strongly advised.

Direct download: MormonStories-537-TomPhillipsPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:04am MDT

tomphillipsIn June of 2012 I interviewed Tom Phillips, former LDS church stake president in London, England U.K.  In this interview he discusses the following:

  • His early experiences as a bishop and stake president in the LDS church, along with is friendship with LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland.
  • His experience receiving a secret/sacred LDS church ordinance called the "Second Anointing," wherein he was anointed by the hands of Elder M. Russel Ballard, and assured exaltation in there hereafter.
  • His subsequent loss of faith over historical and scientific issues with the church.
  • His direct correspondence with then friend, LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland, over these troubling issues.
  • The pain, suffering, and ultimate divorce that he and his family experienced as a result of his faith crisis.
  • Additional detail about Tom's story can be found here.

At the time I conducted this interview I was in deep discussions with my stake president, Mark Jensen, over my status with the church, and my ability to baptize my son.  Out of fear of church discipline, and as a sign of good will to President Jensen, I decided to not release this episode via Mormon Stories podcast, and instead granted permission to Tom to do with it as he saw fit.

Over the subsequent months and years I have come to regret this decision made largely out of fear, and want to publicly apologize to Tom for it.  I now feel it is appropriate to release this interview, not because I seek to show disrespect for the LDS church or its temple ordinances, but because Tom's story a very poignant example of the pain and suffering that can come about as many LDS members continue to experience legitimate struggles with the LDS church's truth claims.

Since this interview openly discusses secret/sacred LDS temple ordinances, listener discretion is strongly advised.

Direct download: MormonStories-536-TomPhillipsPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:03am MDT

tomphillipsIn June of 2012 I interviewed Tom Phillips, former LDS church stake president in London, England U.K.  In this interview he discusses the following:

  • His early experiences as a bishop and stake president in the LDS church, along with is friendship with LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland.
  • His experience receiving a secret/sacred LDS church ordinance called the "Second Anointing," wherein he was anointed by the hands of Elder M. Russel Ballard, and assured exaltation in there hereafter.
  • His subsequent loss of faith over historical and scientific issues with the church.
  • His direct correspondence with then friend, LDS apostle Jeffrey R. Holland, over these troubling issues.
  • The pain, suffering, and ultimate divorce that he and his family experienced as a result of his faith crisis.
  • Additional detail about Tom's story can be found here.

At the time I conducted this interview I was in deep discussions with my stake president, Mark Jensen, over my status with the church, and my ability to baptize my son.  Out of fear of church discipline, and as a sign of good will to President Jensen, I decided to not release this episode via Mormon Stories podcast, and instead granted permission to Tom to do with it as he saw fit.

Over the subsequent months and years I have come to regret this decision made largely out of fear, and want to publicly apologize to Tom for it.  I now feel it is appropriate to release this interview, not because I seek to show disrespect for the LDS church or its temple ordinances, but because Tom's story a very poignant example of the pain and suffering that can come about as many LDS members continue to experience legitimate struggles with the LDS church's truth claims.

Since this interview openly discusses secret/sacred LDS temple ordinances, listener discretion is strongly advised.

Direct download: MormonStories-535-TomPhillipsPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:02am MDT

Micah Nickolaisen has been an important participant in the Mormon Internet for the past  three years.  His activism began in 2012 as co-founder of both the "A Thoughtful Faith" and the "Exploring Sainthood" podcasts/communities - both of which sought to encourage thoughtful and faithful LDS Church activity/participation.  

After losing his faith/confidence in the LDS Church in 2013, and in reaction to the Kate Kelly and John Dehlin excommunications in 2014/2015, Micah co-led several projects which sought to bring attention/visibility to problems within in the LDS Church.  Micah co-founded the "Strangers in Zion" project, wherein LDS Church members were encouraged to request disciplinary councils (in lieu of resigning their membership).  Micah was also a co-founder of the recent "Any Opposed" initiative wherein several LDS Church members expressed vocal opposition to church policies/practices during the April 2015 LDS General Conference.

In this three-part interview Micah discusses his early years of strong devotion to the church.  He then discusses his participation as a pro- and then a post-Mormon activist.  In the final episode, Micah discusses his newfound interest in the formation of secular communities for post-religious individuals (e.g., Sunday Assembly and Atheism 2.0).

Direct download: MormonStories-534-MicahNickolaisenPt3.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:42pm MDT

Micah Nickolaisen has been an important participant in the Mormon Internet for the past  three years.  His activism began in 2012 as co-founder of both the "A Thoughtful Faith" and the "Exploring Sainthood" podcasts/communities - both of which sought to encourage thoughtful and faithful LDS Church activity/participation.  

After losing his faith/confidence in the LDS Church in 2013, and in reaction to the Kate Kelly and John Dehlin excommunications in 2014/2015, Micah co-led several projects which sought to bring attention/visibility to problems within in the LDS Church.  Micah co-founded the "Strangers in Zion" project, wherein LDS Church members were encouraged to request disciplinary councils (in lieu of resigning their membership).  Micah was also a co-founder of the recent "Any Opposed" initiative wherein several LDS Church members expressed vocal opposition to church policies/practices during the April 2015 LDS General Conference.

In this three-part interview Micah discusses his early years of strong devotion to the church.  He then discusses his participation as a pro- and then a post-Mormon activist.  In the final episode, Micah discusses his newfound interest in the formation of secular communities for post-religious individuals (e.g., Sunday Assembly and Atheism 2.0).

Direct download: MormonStories-533-MicahNickolaisenPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:40pm MDT

Micah Nickolaisen has been an important participant in the Mormon Internet for the past  three years.  His activism began in 2012 as co-founder of both the "A Thoughtful Faith" and the "Exploring Sainthood" podcasts/communities - both of which sought to encourage thoughtful and faithful LDS Church activity/participation.  

After losing his faith/confidence in the LDS Church in 2013, and in reaction to the Kate Kelly and John Dehlin excommunications in 2014/2015, Micah co-led several projects which sought to bring attention/visibility to problems within in the LDS Church.  Micah co-founded the "Strangers in Zion" project, wherein LDS Church members were encouraged to request disciplinary councils (in lieu of resigning their membership).  Micah was also a co-founder of the recent "Any Opposed" initiative wherein several LDS Church members expressed vocal opposition to church policies/practices during the April 2015 LDS General Conference.

In this three-part interview Micah discusses his early years of strong devotion to the church.  He then discusses his participation as a pro- and then a post-Mormon activist.  In the final episode, Micah discusses his newfound interest in the formation of secular communities for post-religious individuals (e.g., Sunday Assembly and Atheism 2.0).

Direct download: MormonStories-532-MicahNickolaisenPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:38pm MDT

An April 15th, 2015 six board members from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities had a meeting with BYU students to get the the most authentic feedback possible about religious and academic freedom at BYU -- without the administration present. This is a full audio recording of that meeting.

Direct download: BYU_Accreditation_Meeting_Enhanced_-_April_2015.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:08am MDT

John Larsen is the influential founder and host of Mormon Expression podcast, and of the White Fields Educational Foundation. This is his story.

Direct download: MormonStories-531-JohnLarsen.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 12:30pm MDT

Kirk and Lindsay Van Allen are facing LDS Church discpline for rejecting the LDS doctrine of polygamy (as found in DYC 132).  This is their story.

Direct download: MormonStories-530-VanAllensRejectingPolygamy.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 9:22am MDT

Marisa Pond Calderwood was raised devoutly LDS in Bellevue, Washington. She was deeply committed to the church as a teen, but she also excelled in school and dreamed of obtaining a Ph.D. in Genetics. After receiving the prestigious Gordon B. Hinckley scholarship at BYU, she married Carson Calderwood after her freshman year. Although she remained devoutly LDS for well over decade, Marisa struggled with feeling like she lost herself and her dreams once she married Carson, especially after going through the LDS temple and receiving the impression that women were less than men in the LDS church. Over the next several years Marisa had four children with Carson, but she also began having chronic headaches, and sinking deeper and deeper into depression. Finally, once Marisa began to allow herself to consider the possibility that the LDS church might not be true, she began feeling better about herself, her headaches subsided, and she and Carson found a happiness and an authenticity in their marriage that they never knew before. Today Marisa and her husband Carson are being threatened with excommunication for speaking openly about their doubts and disbelief. They expect to receive their summons to a disciplinary council within the coming week. This is Marisa's story.

Direct download: MormonStories-529-MarisaPondCalderwood.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 8:22pm MDT

10401436_10153066297053798_1624481439957468610_nCarson Calderwood is an LDS dentist and father of four living in Maple Valley, Washington.  He served an LDS mission in Argentina, married his wife, Marisa, in an LDS temple, recently served as an LDS seminary teacher in Maple valley for two years, and served faithfully in the LDS church for almost two decades.  After experiencing significant questions and doubts a few years go, Carson realized how many local LDS church members were struggling over matters of faith, and began trying to help local members of his ward and stake find joy and healing amidst their LDS faith crises.

After showing public support for Ordain Women, and after publicly expressing his doubts about several LDS church truth claims (e.g., polygamy, polyandry, Book of Mormon and Abraham historicity), Carson is now being charged with apostasy by the LDS Church, and by his Maple Valley, Washington stake president.  A disciplinary council for Carson is set to be scheduled within the next few days or weeks.  

This is Carson's story, wherein he explains why he objects to LDS disciplinary councils for apostasy, and why he would prefer to be excommunicated than to resign his LDS membership and walk away quietly.

Direct download: MormonStories-528-CarsonCalderwood.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:07am MDT

Mormon Stories alumnus John Hamer returns to talk about Community of Christ as a viable spiritual home for transitioning Mormons in this two-part video series.  John Hamer was raised LDS, but became a doubting teenager and left organized religion altogether as an adult.  In 2010, he joined Community of Christ and currently serves as pastor of its congregation in downtown Toronto, Canada.  
 
In part 1, John Hamer sits down with John Dehlin and makes the case for "non-literalistic" religion.  (The presentation is illustrated with John Hamer's amazing diagrams, so the podcast audience is advised to watch the YouTube version.)  John Hamer describes how a church with Restoration roots has evolved beyond doctrine and dogma to become inclusive of the LGBT community and a wide diversity of individual beliefs.  
 
In part 2, John Dehlin challenges John Hamer with tough questions, including whether it is possible for some transitioning Mormons who feel real betrayal to join a church that traces its origin to Joseph Smith, or, indeed, any organized religion.  The resulting dialogue was wide-ranging and intensely fascinating.  Regardless of where you are in your own Mormon journey, you'll surely find John Hamer's case for Community of Christ thought-provoking. 
 
In the course of their discussions, John Hamer referenced the "Latter-day Seekers" facebook group and the website Latter-daySeekers.org. 
Direct download: MormonStories-527-JohnHamerCofCPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:13pm MDT

Mormon Stories alumnus John Hamer returns to talk about Community of Christ as a viable spiritual home for transitioning Mormons in this two-part video series.  John Hamer was raised LDS, but became a doubting teenager and left organized religion altogether as an adult.  In 2010, he joined Community of Christ and currently serves as pastor of its congregation in downtown Toronto, Canada.  
 
In part 1, John Hamer sits down with John Dehlin and makes the case for "non-literalistic" religion.  (The presentation is illustrated with John Hamer's amazing diagrams, so the podcast audience is advised to watch the YouTube version.)  John Hamer describes how a church with Restoration roots has evolved beyond doctrine and dogma to become inclusive of the LGBT community and a wide diversity of individual beliefs.  
 
In part 2, John Dehlin challenges John Hamer with tough questions, including whether it is possible for some transitioning Mormons who feel real betrayal to join a church that traces its origin to Joseph Smith, or, indeed, any organized religion.  The resulting dialogue was wide-ranging and intensely fascinating.  Regardless of where you are in your own Mormon journey, you'll surely find John Hamer's case for Community of Christ thought-provoking. 
 
In the course of their discussions, John Hamer referenced the "Latter-day Seekers" facebook group and the website Latter-daySeekers.org. 
Direct download: MormonStories-526-JohnHamerCofCPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 2:11pm MDT

In this episode, co-released with Mormon Stories, Wendy Williams MontgomeryJohn 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 by “outsiders” to their faith, a change in stance and the new worldview presented by those who were once in sync with you (or at least perceived to be in sync) can be far more devastating. Their shifts often feel very personal, a rejection of something we hold most dear. And they have no excuse! They once knew what we know and now challenge and say they are seeing more clearly or experiencing something else more richly? For those who are the ones who have shifted, a loved one’s negative reactions to that person’s change also can feel quite personal. Why don’t they trust me that I’m on a good path, that I have information or insights that open the world to me in new ways? Why are they choosing stubbornness and clinging to ideology and dogma over really exploring and staying in close relationship with me no matter where my faith journey takes me?

How can we see these and other dynamics more clearly? What is “our” responsibility as those who have been the one whose perspectives have shifted? How can both parties better understand the challenges of this situation and learn to have compassion for each other? What are key virtues needed in such relationships? What are some “dos” and “don’ts” for negotiating this difficult interpersonal terrain?

Please listen and then share your stories and insights in the comments section below!

Direct download: MormonStories-525-WotherspoonSpeakingAboutFaithDiff.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:54am MDT

Direct download: John-Dehlin-Excommunication-Appeal-Letter-FINAL-NoAddress.pdf
Category:Religion -- posted at: 1:53pm MDT

Jedediah Rogers discusses the history of Joseph Smith's "Council of 50" with J. Jed-head-231x300Nelson-Seawright. Jed is a co-editor of the Utah Historical Quarterly and the Senior State Historian at the Utah Division of State History. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Brigham Young University and received his doctorate at Arizona State University in 2011. Recently, Jed was the editor of the Signature Book documentary, The Council of 50 - A Documentary History.

The Council of 50 was formed in Nauvoo in 1844 by Joseph Smith Jr. The council provided a pattern for political government through priesthood authority and revelation. “It was, to its members, the nucleus or focus of God’s latter-day kingdom”

Direct download: 524__Jedediah_Rogers_Discusses_Council_of_50.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:03pm MDT

Interview with Radiowest's Doug Fabrizio about My Excommunication

Direct download: MormonStories-523-RadioWestExcommunication.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:37am MDT

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Main Navigati2014 McMurrin Lecture on Religion and Culture with Kathleen Flake

"The LDS Intellectual Tradition: A Study on Three Lives"
April 11, 2014

Symposium: "Faith and Reason, Conscience and Conflict: 
The Paths of Lowell Bennion, Sterling McMurrin, and Obert Tanner"
April 12, 2014
 

Kathleen FlakeMcMurrin Lecture: In her lecture, Flake defines an intellectual as one who loves and is committed to the life of the mind, one for whom thought is both a delight and a necessity, a source as well as means for human flourishing. This does not mean a life without conflicts, as illustrated by three intellectuals - Lowell Bennion, Sterling McMurrin, and Obert Tanner. Flake will consider their intellectual lives in relation to the religious culture from which they came. Doing so will tell us something about whether there is a Mormon intellectual tradition and, if so, what are its distinctive features.

Kathleen Flake holds the Richard L. Bushman Chair of Mormon Studies at the University of Virginia. She is the author of The Politics of American Religious Identity: The Seating of Senator Reed Smoot, Mormon Apostle (University of North Carolina Press, 2004).

Professor Flake has been awarded grants from the Mellon Foundation, Lily Endowment, Pew Charitable Trusts, and American Philosophical Society.  She has held office in the American Academy of Religion, the American Society of Church History, and the Southeastern Commission for the Study of Religion. Frequently invited to comment on Mormonism in the news, she is also a panelist for the Washington Post/Newsweek "On Faith" blog.

 

2014 Symposium

Symposium: Mormonism is often seen as a religion of conformity, with a hierarchy in tight control of members’ beliefs and behavior. Yet this perspective misses a rich tradition of intellectual independence and principled dissent. With an eye to the present and future, the Tanner Humanities Center will offer a unique symposium on the lives and legacies of Sterling M. McMurrin, Obert C. Tanner, and Lowell L. Bennion. Their stories reveal the tensions between faith and reason, conformity and dissent. This symposium will mark the 25th anniversary of the founding of the Obert C. and Grace A. Tanner Humanities Center.

Panels include “Challenge of Conscience: Sterling M. McMurrin” (9:00-10:30 AM), with Bob Goldberg (Chair), Jack Newell, James Clayton, and Brian Birch; “Challenge of Loyalty: Lowell Bennion” (11:00 AM-12:30 PM), with Irene Fisher (Chair), Greg Prince, Tony Morgan, Sam Allen, and Emma Lou Thayne; and “Challenge of Faith: Obert C. Tanner” (1:30-3:00 PM), with Greg Thompson (Chair), Kent Murdock, Bob Goldberg, and Grethe Peterson. A concluding panel, titled “Public Men and the Challenge of Their Private Worlds” (3:30-5:00 PM), will focus upon the personal, intellectual, and working relationships that existed among these men, with panelists Linda King Newell (Chair), Carolyn Tanner Irish, Ellen Bennion Stone, Charlotte Hansen Terry, and Bill McMurrin.            

These three intellectuals who shared a determination to act were rooted in Mormonism, but possessed distinctive visions that penetrated beyond their treasured religious heritage and drove them to embrace—and respond to—the pressing social, cultural, and political issues of their time.  With mutual respect, but using distinctive methods, Tanner, McMurrin and Bennion shared a passion for justice and impatience with racial discrimination in their church and across American society.  At various points in their careers, they served the LDS Church, the University of Utah, their state, and the nation in pursuit of their visions of a more enlightened and humane society.

Pursuing justice and adhering to conscience brought its own rewards, but also exacted a cost. As Director of the University of Utah’s LDS Institute of Religion, Lowell Bennion chafed at supporting church authorities in their denial of the priesthood to African American men.  Largely over this issue, he surrendered this post, swallowed his disappointment, and vigorously channeled his religious instincts into serving the needy in Salt Lake City.  Sterling McMurrin chose to proclaim himself a heretic and relished that identity, but lost friendships and some sense of community. Obert Tanner, a closet skeptic, muffled his doubt and kept his silence to play prominent roles in the life of his country, state, and city.

Symposium speakers and panelists will not only examine the specific, contemporary impacts of Lowell Bennion, Sterling McMurrin, and O.C. Tanner, but also consider their enduring legacies on the issues facing the Mormon Church today: the inclusion of women more fully in church leadership circles, the need to face painful facets of church history more honestly, the challenge of retaining the engagement or affiliation of socially and culturally liberal members and young adults, the quest to understand the effects of new technologies on Mormon practices and beliefs, and other concerns of our time. A concluding panel will focus upon the personal, intellectual, and working relationships that existed among these men. 

The Tanner Center is partnering with the College of Humanities, Smith-Pettit Foundation, and Michael Morris to bring you this event. 

 

 


Direct download: John_Dehlin_Apostasy_Press_Release_2-4-2015.pdf
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:12am MDT

As John Dehlin faces a disciplinary council for his work on Mormon Stories, more than two dozen past participants offer their thoughts on what John and the podcast have meant to them and to Mormonism. These reflections include faithful, orthodox Latter-Day Saints and ex-Mormons; famous scholars and private individuals; and social activists and theologians. They reflect the inclusiveness of the Mormon Stories project, past, present, and future --- and the many ways lives have been changed and improved by involvement with John's work. We invite listeners to share their own reflections about the importance of Mormon Stories in the comments section to this post.

Direct download: MormonStories-JDMSReflections.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:43pm MDT

520: John Dehlin's TribTalk with Jennifer Napier-Pearce about Disciplinary Council recorded January 22, 2015.

Direct download: MormonStories-520-JohnDehlinTribTalk2015.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 5:54pm MDT

In this hilarious and touching episode of Mormon Stories, John Dehlin interviews Clark Johnson, an original cast member in the hit Broadway musical, The Book of Mormon.

In part one, Clark shares his experience as a young gay Mormon coming from a conservative LDS background, his mission to Mexico, and how he and his family came to terms with his decision to leave the church.  

In part two, Clark recounts the events and his favorite memories leading him to join The Book of Mormon cast; from the dance department at BYU to the Broadway stage. He goes on to share scene by scene and song by song, themes from the musical that relate to his life and experience with the world.

Warning - Because of the language contained in the Book of Mormon Musical, listener discretion is advised.

Direct download: MormonStories-519-ClarkJohnsen-BroadwayBookOfMormonMusicalPt2.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:31am MDT

In this hilarious and touching episode of Mormon Stories, John Dehlin interviews Clark Johnson, an original cast member in the hit Broadway musical, The Book of Mormon

In part one, Clark shares his experience as a young gay Mormon coming from a conservative LDS background, his mission to Mexico, and how he and his family came to terms with his decision to leave the church.  

In part two, Clark recounts the events and his favorite memories leading him to join The Book of Mormon cast; from the dance department at BYU to the Broadway stage. He goes on to share scene by scene and song by song, themes from the musical that relate to his life and experience with the world.

Warning - Because of the language contained in the Book of Mormon Musical, listener discretion is advised.

Direct download: MormonStories-518-ClarkJohnsen-BroadwayBookOfMormonMusicalPt1.mp3
Category:Religion -- posted at: 6:29am MDT

Direct download: JohnDehlinDisciplinaryCouncilPressRelase-FinalV3.pdf
Category:Religion -- posted at: 3:32pm MDT