The Cultural Hall Podcast

Temple worship has always been difficult for Latter-day Saints to discuss. A culture of privacy governs how they talk about it. Holiness to the Lord is a path breaking study of what church members have experienced in their temples, from the 1830s to the present. Now available for preorder, Holiness to the Lord: Elucidates the religious work of LDS temples. Documents the generational shift in temple practices over time. Incorporates a never-before-seen body of archival records. Provides new insight into the relationships between Latter-day Saint conceptions of priesthood, gender, and race. Offers pioneering information about LDS temple practices outside of devotional and generalized material. PURCHASE THE BOOK The post Holiness to the Lord: Latter-day Saint Temple Worship – Jonathan Stapley – 993 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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Buy the Book Wakara’s America: A Historical Perspective Max discussed his new book, “Wakara’s America,” which explores the life and significance of Wakara, a prominent Ute leader in the 1840s. He explained that Wakara was known by different names in various regions, reflecting his extensive travels and interactions with diverse communities. Max, a historian of American religion at the University of Nebraska, shared his fascination with Latter-day Saint history and culture, which led him to research Wakara’s role in the American West and his interactions with early Mormons. He highlighted the need to tell Wakara’s story from his perspective, offering a more nuanced understanding of their complex relationship. Wakara: The Forgotten West’s Thief Max discussed Wakara, a Native American figure from the 1840s who was known as the greatest horse thief of the American West. He enslaved thousands of Paiutes and used his knowledge of the West to create maps that were later used by John C. Fremont and the Latter-day Saints. Max highlighted the importance of Wakara’s contributions to the American West, despite his being largely unknown due to his Native American heritage. Richie expressed surprise at learning about Wakara’s actions and the historical context, emphasizing the need to acknowledge and understand such figures’ roles in shaping history. Understanding Historical Narratives Complexity Max and Richie discussed the complexity of historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of a more nuanced understanding of historical figures and events. Max highlighted the need to recognize the implications of one’s own family history and suggested that acknowledging past actions can lead to better future decisions. They agreed to continue their discussion about the interactions between the Latter-day Saints and Native Americans in the Great Basin and Salt Lake Valley in the next segment. Richie also reminded listeners to contact the Cultural Hall with feedback or suggestions for future guests and discussions. Brigham Young’s Utah Journey Myths Max and Richie discussed the complexities of human beings and the challenges of categorizing individuals as purely good or bad. They explored the origins of the Latter-day Saints’ journey to Utah, focusing on Brigham Young’s Vanguard Company and the mythology surrounding their entry into the Salt Lake Valley. Max explained that while the story of Brigham Young declaring the area to be the “right place” is part of the origin myth, there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. They also discussed Brigham Young’s meeting with Jim Bridger, where Bridger warned about the Utes’ presence in the area, leading to a change in the Mormons’ planned route. Wakara and Brigham Young’s Complex Relationship Max discussed the complex relationship between Wakara, a Native American leader, and Brigham Young, the leader of the Mormons. Wakara helped Brigham settle in the Salt Lake Valley and was invited to the first Pioneer Day celebration in 1849. However, Wakara also used the Mormons to displace his rivals, leading to the extermination of the Timpanogos people in 1850. Max explained that Wakara’s slavery practices were different from the chattel slavery in the American South, as they were more about re-establishing bonds of peoplehood and connection to the land. Despite this, Wakara was baptized a Latter-day Saint in 1850 and led his followers into baptism. Wakara’s Mormon Conversion and Alliances Max discussed Wakara, a Native American leader who was baptized and later ordained as a Mormon priest, which the Mormons viewed as a conversion. Richie questioned whether Wakara’s involvement with the Mormons was a strategic move for power or a genuine conversion. Max explained that Wakara’s adoption of Mormonism was more about forming kinship networks and alliances rather than a complete conversion, and he placed his daughters in Mormon households to strengthen these bonds. Max also highlighted that Wakara’s descendants, including some who may not be aware of their Native American heritage, have been identified through DNA and genealogical research. Brigham Young’s Native American Policies Max discussed the historical relationship between Brigham Young and Wakara, a Native American leader who was among the first Native American priesthood holders in Utah in 1851. He explained how Wacara, despite being illiterate, was given a traveling paper by George A. Smith to trade with Mormon settlers, though this was part of a broader context of Native American slavery and indentured servitude in early Utah. Max argued that Brigham Young’s policies led to conflicts with Native Americans, which he referred to as “Brigham’s War,” rather than the traditionally named “Walker War,” and traced Brigham’s ancestry back to participants in the King Philip’s War, highlighting a pattern of settlers taking Native American land and controlling the narrative of their conflicts. Understanding the Walker War Narrative Max discussed the historical narrative surrounding the Walker War, emphasizing how conflicts are often named after Native Americans despite being initiated by settlers. He highlighted Brigham Young’s role in naming the war and the subsequent peace parlay with Walker, which ended with Walker’s death under mysterious circumstances. Max also touched on the broader themes of American expansionism, the mistreatment of Native American remains, and the potential for a more sustainable and balanced relationship with the land. He expressed hope for a return to indigenous ways of understanding and interacting with the environment, citing recent developments around the Great Salt Lake. The post Wakara’s America: The Life and Legacy of a Native Founder of the American West – 990 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

Temple Dedication  Bahia Blanca Argentina Temple – #211 Dedicated November 23, 2025 by Ulisses Soares Dedicatory Prayer 5th Temple in Argentina, furthest south 12 Stakes and 4 Districts assigned to temple district Temple Open Houses Burley Idaho Temple Interior Photos Released Motifs include sugar beet and potato blossoms, trembling blue skies and farm fields Attended by Idaho Governor Brad Little Alabang Philippines Temple Interior Photos Released Motif of the white jasmine flower, or sampaguita, the national flower of the Philippines Why Photoshop the high rise buildings out? Compare Media Tour on November 17th 2nd Temple in the Manila Metro area, located in Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City Announced by President Monson in 2017 Temple Dedication and Open House Scheduled Willamette Valley Oregon Temple Open House schedules for April 23, 2026 to May 9th  Dedication on June 7th presided by Dieter Uchtdorf 5th dedication scheduled for 2026 Temple Groundbreakings Brussels Belgium Temple “Site Dedication” held on November 22nd Presided by Jack N Gerard Golden Shovels? Why not Golden Sledge Hammers? At Least they didn't bring in dirt Appears to be an updated Rendering  Embossed on the Shovels  Possibly replacing the World Trade Center wishbone grilles Jacksonville Florida Temple  Announced for January 24, 2025 To be presided by Massimo De Feo Temple Sites Announced, Rendering Released  Coeur d’Alene Idaho Temple 11 acres located on the corner of Hanley Avenue and Coeur Terre Boulevard on the western side of Coeur d’Alene Single Story, 29,630 sq ft temple White Granite, copper roof and spire Inspired by the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans?  Calabar Nigeria Temple 7 acres along Atekong Drive in central Calabar Single story, 26,000 sq ft temple White concrete, sky blue spire Yuma Arizona Temple 7 acres located at the corner of East 36th Street and South 8 East Avenue in the City of Yuma Single story, 18,500 sq ft temple Sand colored, topped by a Cupula  Similar cupola to temples in San Juan, Praia, Coban Construction Updates Salt Lake Temple Hanging Chandeliers in Sealing rooms and Assembly Hall Plaza Hotel Prepares for demolition  The Roof fine dining restaurant reopening Adalaide Australia Temple Extended Maintenance Closure  To reopen in May 2026 Construction Visitors Centers set up  Austin Texas Temple Vancouver Washington Temple Tacloban Philippines Temple Deseret Peak Utah Temple Wins construction award of merit Christmas Season  Manila Philippines Temple Mesa Arizona Temple St George Visitors Center home to a “Believe in Him” art exhibit The post We Have Jumped the Temple Shark – Temple Ticker 989 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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In this episode, Richie T Steadman and Taylor Westbrook discuss a variety of topics including their experiences at a recent live show, aspirations for podcasting and stand-up comedy, and the dynamics of dating. They also delve into church experiences, the appointment of a new apostle, and the implications of artificial intelligence within the church. The conversation touches on declining birth rates, workplace culture, and the balance of religious expression in professional settings, emphasizing the need for community and awareness in these discussions. The post Love, Laugh, Live – AoN 985 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

Orson F. Whitney's Elias—An Epic of the Ages stands as Mormonism's most ambitious literary achievement, a sweeping poetic retelling of the plan of salvation and the Restoration. First published in 1904 and refined in Whitney's 1914 edition, the ten-canto epic draws upon... The post Elias – An Epic of the Ages – Dr. Reid Nelson – 984 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

While there is peace and simplicity in Latter-day Saint doctrine, there are also many complexities that leave many with thought-provoking questions. Infinite Contingencies invites all to explore these complexities, and it shows that gospel discussions can spark discovery, challenge assumptions,... The post Infinite Contingencies – Michael Hawkins PhD – 983 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

In Imagining and Reimagining the Restoration, Robert A. Rees embarks on an imaginative and profound exploration of Latter-day Saint theology and culture. Through essays, poems, and midrashic interpretations, Rees sheds new light on foundational doctrines, the roles of prophetic imagination, and... The post Imagining and Reimagining the Restoration – Robert A. Rees 9 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

55 New missions to be organized in 2026 Total of 506 missions for 84,000 missionaries in 2025 (1 per 166 Previous high of 89,000 in 2014 84,000 missionaries and 416 missions in 2015 (1 per 202) New Missions in Nations... The post Temple Ticker and 55 Mission Madness 981 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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Jesus Christ is the Master Teacher, and we have been commanded to follow His example, acquiring not only His attributes but also His teaching skills. As we do so, we invite the Spirit into our lives in the fullest measure... The post Tad and Kathryn Callister Replay of 586 The Cultural Hall appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

New Temple Announcements President Oaks says read my lips: no new temple announcements for now Opens the door for announcements to be made outside conference  Nelson Temple Legacy  7 Year, 10 Month Presidency 49 Temples Dedicated 100 Temple Groundbreakings 200... The post Temples Not Announced in Conference Anymore? 975 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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1. Through His Life and Example (The Model) Jesus's life, as recorded in the Gospels, provides a perfect, living model for Christian conduct, character, and priorities. He modeled: Servant Leadership: By washing His disciples' feet, He taught that true greatness... The post Jesus Christ as a Mentor with Dwain Schallenberger 971 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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  1. Name of the Church Emphasis on the Full Name: A sustained and formal effort was launched to encourage members, media, and the public to use the full, correct name of the Church: The Church of Jesus Christ of... The post Michigan Shooting at LDS Stake Center and President Nelson passing AoN 969 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

Temple Open Houses Elko Nevada Temple Media Day for Open House on August 27th Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo special guest Open house through September 13th Interior Photos Released Use of Desert Globemallow flower and Orange, Yellow, and Green accents from... The post Is Richie the Pharoah? Temple Ticker 968 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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A Light in the Darkness Imagine standing in complete darkness. No moon, no stars, no lamps. Just silence and shadows pressing in around you. Then, someone lights a single candle. It is small, flickering, fragile—but suddenly the darkness is not... The post Hear Hymn – This Little Light of Mine – 966 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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I've shared before that I struggle with anxiety. Like many, it's been a constant part of my life, and when I don't handle it well, it can severely hinder my growth. Picture yourself on a small boat, waves swelling around... The post Hear Hymn – Because – 964 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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Hear Hymn – The Lord's My Shepherd A Scripture for Life and Death As I write, my heart is with my own family. My sister-in-law and my brother are grieving the loss of her sister, who passed away just yesterday.... The post Hear Hymn The Lord's My Shepherd appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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Temple Dedication  Farmington New Mexico Temple – #208 August 17th, Presided by Neil Andersen Special attention to Navajo and Zuni Heritage 6 Stakes in Temple District Dedicatory Prayer Temple Dedications Announced Burley Idaho Temple Open House: November 6th to 22nd... The post 118 Temples at Fall Conference? Episode 959 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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  Church responds to allegations against American missionary accused of abusing Tongan boys Appeals court rules against church in child sexual abuse case in Arizona, church leaders says they will appeal Elderly West Jordan man charged with luring girl into... The post What will your “Grandparent Name” Be? AoN 956 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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Follow us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheCulturalHall Judge orders 6th and 7th life sentences for Lori Vallow Daybell Families of Idaho murder victims address Byran Kohberger at sentencing Four arrested after 9 abused children found in Florida home with cage, authorities... The post Faith Concern or Faith Crisis AoN – 954 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

Temple Dedications Antofagasta Chile Temple – #207 Dedicated on June 15th, presided by Gary Stevenson Dedicatory Prayer 3rd temple in Chile 8 Stakes in Northern Chile Temple Open House Farmington New Mexico Temple Media day on July 14th Mayor of... The post Alabama Has No Spire Troubles – Temple Ticker – 953 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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For years, I believed all the wrong things about love.​I thought if I just followed the rules, we'd be happy forever. But real connection? It doesn't come from clichés, it comes from skills.I've helped thousands of couples move from stuck... The post Bad Marriage Advice – Monica Tanner – 949 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

For Latter-day Saints, the temple is the pinnacle experience on the “Covenant Path”, or road to salvation in the Celestial Kingdom. Dozens of new temples are being announced each year, and members around the world are gaining access to these... The post A Guide to Latter-day Saint Covenants and Rituals – Derek Hutchins appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

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Heather Frazier is a parenting coach, speaker, and host of the Pivot Parenting podcast, which has been helping thousands of families since 2019. Heather's journey started in a very relatable place: she was a stay-at-home mom until her youngest started first grade... The post Mom Got Jesus Wrong, Hallelujah! – Heather Frazier – 944 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.