Podcasts about gospel doctrine

This Devotional address with Elder David A. and Sister Susan K. Bednar was delivered on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 5:00 PM MST in the BYU-Idaho I-Center. David A. Bednar was ordained and set apart as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on October 7, 2004. Prior to his call, Elder Bednar served as an Area Authority Seventy, as an Area Authority, as a Regional Representative, twice as a stake president, and as a bishop. Elder Bednar was born on June 15, 1952, in Oakland, California. He served as a full-time missionary in Southern Germany and then attended Brigham Young University, where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees. He also received a doctoral degree in organizational behavior from Purdue University. After completing his education, Elder Bednar was a professor of business management at Texas Tech University and at the University of Arkansas. He then served as the president of BYU-Idaho from 1997-2004. Elder and Sister Bednar were married in the Salt Lake Temple on March 20, 1975, and they are the parents of three sons. Susan Kae Robinson Bednar was born and reared in Afton, Wyoming. She is the daughter of Kay and Nyla Clement Robinson. Sister Bednar graduated from BYU with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. She taught first grade for two years and was involved with institutions of higher education with her husband at Texas Tech University, the University of Arkansas, and BYU-Idaho. In the Church Sister Bednar has served as Primary president, Primary chorister, Young Women president, Gospel Doctrine teacher, and ward organist.

Skyler Sorensen grew up in St. George, Utah as the fourth of eight children. He is an active Latter-day Saint who experiences same-sex attraction. He and his wife, Amanda, were married in the Provo, Utah temple in 2018. He graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's in Media Arts and currently works with the team at Scripture Central. Skyler started the podcast “Sit Down with Sky”, which has recently morphed into a YouTube series. The series is dedicated to finding and maintaining eternal truths in the conversation around LGBTQ issues. Skyler is also the author of Exclude Not Thyself: Thriving as a Covenant-Keeping, Gay Latter-day Saint, aimed at providing a faith-affirming approach to LGBTQ issues. Skyler and Amanda have three children. Their first son, Milo, was born at 24½ weeks, and after a few weeks of battling for his life in newborn intensive care, he passed away in Amanda's arms. They have two living daughters, Remi and Lainey, both under the age of three. Skyler's current church calling is Gospel Doctrine teacher. Links Exclude Not Thyself: Thriving as a Covenant-Keeping Gay Latter-Day Saint Sit Down with Sky Connect with Skyler Scripture Central North Star Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Skyler shares his personal journey as a gay Latter-day Saint, detailing his experiences with same-sex attraction, his decision to marry a woman in the temple, and the fulfillment he finds in his family life. Skyler shares his perspective on the labels of identity, expressing a desire to prioritize his core identity as a disciple of Jesus Christ over societal labels. Kurt and Skyler talk about the tension church leaders face when discussing doctrines related to the eternal family, emphasizing the need for compassion while upholding the ideal of eternal marriage. Skyler highlights the importance of understanding doctrine in a way that fosters genuine relationships, even amidst disagreements about lifestyle choices. The discussion also touches on the significance of therapy and the value of seeking resources that align with one's faith. Both Kurt and Skyler stress the importance of maintaining hope and connection, advocating for a balanced approach that recognizes the complexities of faith and identity. 02:40 - Skyler's Journey with Same-Sex Attraction 06:00 - Navigating Identity and Labels 08:04 - The Importance of Open Communication in Relationships 09:53 - Early Experiences with Church Leaders 11:09 - Balancing Temptation and Faith 12:16 - The Role of Church Leaders in Discussing Marriage 16:14 - The Ideal of Eternal Marriage 17:26 - Addressing Criticism of Mixed Orientation Marriages 18:12 - The Importance of Seeking Validation from God 19:02 - The Desire to Share a Valid Path for LGBTQ Latter-day Saints 20:16 - The Tension Between Faith and Family 22:10 - Maintaining Relationships Amidst Differences 24:00 - Resources for Families and Individuals 29:19 - The Role of Therapy in Navigating Same-Sex Attraction 31:01 - Understanding Doctrine and Its Application 33:03 - Promoting the North Star Conference 36:06 - Validating the Path of Covenant-Keeping 39:21 - The Importance of Teaching Eternal Truths 40:56 - Finding Strength in the Temple 44:34 - Accessing Strength Through Eternal Perspective The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish,

Pastor Ethan continues our teaching series, Upon This Rock. This week, we talk about Gospel Culture.

The Gospel is good news, not good advice. It doesn't just call us to be better; it invites us into a whole new life in Christ. In an age that says we must define ourselves, gospel doctrine tells us that we're already defined in the most profound way: loved, redeemed, and called by Jesus. This is the truth that binds His Church together.   In this Episode, Whit and Casey explore the history of our individualistic culture and the foundational beliefs that define the Church.   Show notes: Check out the message: Gospel Doctrine in an Age of Moral Relativism  | https://youtu.be/R4xwMaBTxNE?si=4Bpb405nL-E4I456 In this episode Whit mentions the book Strange New World by Carl Trueman

Sister Michelle D. Craig received a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Brigham Young University. Sister Craig has served in many ward and stake positions in the Primary, Young Women, and Relief Society organizations. She has served as temple ordinance worker in the Provo Utah Temple and Gospel Doctrine teacher in Sunday school. Sister Craig served a mission in the Dominican Republic Santo Domingo Mission. She was serving as a member of the Primary general board at the time of her call as the First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency. She served from March 31, 2018 to August 1, 2023. Sister Craig has enjoyed community service in the Parent Teacher Association of her children's schools, as a literacy tutor, and as a school support volunteer for a national education foundation. Sister Craig and her husband, E. Boyd Craig, reside in Orem, Utah. They have three children. She loves family history, temple work, reading, and enjoying time with her family.

Pastor Whit kicks off our new teaching series, Upon This Rock. This week, we talk about Gospel Doctrine.

Pastor Ian kicks off our new teaching series, Upon This Rock. This week, we talked about Gospel Doctrine.

Pastor Seth kicks off our new teaching series, Upon This Rock. This week, we talk about Gospel Doctrine.

October 13, 2024 · Brad Raby · Jonah 1:1-9

Beth Zeleny has pretty much done whatever church callings needed to be done: teaching in Primary, Young Women, Relief Society, early morning Seminary, Gospel Doctrine, and Gospel Principles; serving in Relief Society, Primary, and Young Women ward and stake presidencies; serving as a temple ordinance worker, Relief Society compassionate service leader, and provident living specialist. Just when she thought she had done everything, she was called to be ward history specialist. Beth has a bachelor's degree in Education and a master's and PhD in Geography. She taught middle school math and science before grad school, then taught geography courses in university for a few years before switching to a career in intelligence. She retired seven years ago but enjoys research, analysis, and writing so much that she would like to go back to work and do it some more. Links Ward History: unithistory.churchofjesuschrist.org There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts. Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights This discussion centers around the innovative unit history website, which simplifies the process of recording and sharing ward histories. Beth shares how the introduction of the unit history site transformed her experience as ward history specialist, making ward history engaging and accessible for all ward members. Beth elaborates on how the website allows leaders to document experiences and activities throughout the year. This fosters a sense of community and connection, as members can share personal stories that reflect their faith journeys. Beth emphasizes the importance of capturing these narratives, highlighting various stories from her ward that showcase the diverse experiences of its members, from missionary efforts to personal testimonies. Kurt and Beth discuss strategies for encouraging ward engagement with the history site, including proactive outreach to members. Beth shares her methods for collecting stories, such as approaching individuals after sacrament meetings and inviting them to contribute their experiences. 02:09 - Introduction to Beth Zeleny 02:43 - Beth's Background and Calling 04:01 - The Church's New Ward History Tool 05:18 - How the Unit History Website Works 09:39 - Accessing the Unit History Site 11:00 - Member Contributions to Ward History 12:45 - Navigating the Unit History Site 16:36 - Gathering Stories from Ward Members 20:58 - Importance of Personal Stories 23:27 - The Value of Recording Ward History 26:00 - Engagement and Participation in Ward History 30:45 - Encouraging Story Submissions 35:13 - The Impact of Sharing First Experiences 37:17 - Conclusion and Call to Action The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill and many more in over 700 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Join Revs. Josh Hall and Jacob Chilton for Wednesday Night Bible Study. Tonight's lesson continues our study of Nine Marks of a Healthy Church by Mark Dever, looking at the importance of Gospel Doctrine. To learn more about First Baptist Church of Tallahassee, visit https://www.fbctlh.org.

Reconcile Community Church | 9.1.24   Galatians 2: 1-10   Preacher: Pastor Will Broadus

Aaron LeDuc – Colossians 3:1-17

Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture, Mission, Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 28, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Join us for an inspiring message from Pastor Adam Ramsey in Week 4 of our "Freed People Series" titled "Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture (The Two Hills We Die On)." In this sermon, Pastor Adam delves into John 13:34-35, exploring the essential marks of a healthy church and the vital relationship between Gospel Doctrine and Gospel Culture.As Pastor Adam recaps the journey so far, we reflect on the importance of giving our first and best to God, maturing together in faith, and prioritizing our collective identity in Christ. This week, we focus on the two core principles that shape our community: Gospel Doctrine (our unwavering message of Jesus' good news) and Gospel Culture (the lived experience of this good news in our relationships).Pastor Adam emphasizes that a faithful church cannot settle for one without the other. Pure doctrine without love is lifeless, and love without doctrine is misguided. Drawing from the wisdom of Francis Schaeffer, he reminds us that the early church's explosive growth stemmed from their commitment to both orthodoxy of doctrine and orthodoxy of community.Through the lens of John 13, Pastor Adam illustrates how Jesus' command to "love one another just as I have loved you" encapsulates both gospel doctrine and gospel culture. He challenges us to make the gospel the center of our lives, moving beyond self-centeredness to embrace a Christ-centered community marked by love, patience, and mutual support.In a world fraught with division, our love for one another serves as a powerful testimony to the reality of Jesus' love. Pastor Adam invites us to cultivate and protect this gospel culture, making it a defining feature of our church and our witness to the world.Don't miss this profound message that calls us to live out the gospel in both belief and practice, showing the world the transformative power of Jesus' love.

Join us for an inspiring message from Pastor Adam Ramsey in Week 4 of our "Freed People Series" titled "Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture (The Two Hills We Die On)." In this sermon, Pastor Adam delves into John 13:34-35, exploring the essential marks of a healthy church and the vital relationship between Gospel Doctrine and Gospel Culture.As Pastor Adam recaps the journey so far, we reflect on the importance of giving our first and best to God, maturing together in faith, and prioritizing our collective identity in Christ. This week, we focus on the two core principles that shape our community: Gospel Doctrine (our unwavering message of Jesus' good news) and Gospel Culture (the lived experience of this good news in our relationships).Pastor Adam emphasizes that a faithful church cannot settle for one without the other. Pure doctrine without love is lifeless, and love without doctrine is misguided. Drawing from the wisdom of Francis Schaeffer, he reminds us that the early church's explosive growth stemmed from their commitment to both orthodoxy of doctrine and orthodoxy of community.Through the lens of John 13, Pastor Adam illustrates how Jesus' command to "love one another just as I have loved you" encapsulates both gospel doctrine and gospel culture. He challenges us to make the gospel the center of our lives, moving beyond self-centeredness to embrace a Christ-centered community marked by love, patience, and mutual support.In a world fraught with division, our love for one another serves as a powerful testimony to the reality of Jesus' love. Pastor Adam invites us to cultivate and protect this gospel culture, making it a defining feature of our church and our witness to the world.Don't miss this profound message that calls us to live out the gospel in both belief and practice, showing the world the transformative power of Jesus' love.

Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture, Prayer, Matthew 6:5-15, Matthew 6, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture, Jesus' Humility Makes Us Humble, Philippians 2:1-11, Philippians 2, Aaron Armstrong, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Meghan is joined by Kris Kimball to discuss traditions of Jesus Christ and Mary Magdalene. Topics include: - The Missing YearsRecords of the missing years of Jesus' life- Jesus's Ancestry- Traditions of Christ's Marriage- The ancestry of Mary Magdalene- The Condescension of GodKris Kimball is married with 3 adult children and 7 grandchildren. Kris studied at Utah State University, the University of Utah, and Cambridge University. Kris is our Traditions Tour expert.A former co-host of the “Liberty Moms” Radio Show & Podcast, Kris now serves on the Advisory Board of Mount Liberty College. She is the former President of the United Women's Forum and former Board Member of the Thomas Jefferson Center for Constitutional Studies.Kris loves to travel, seek truth, and explore history in person. She has spent the last 11 years studying ancient history, ancient religion, and the Egyptian Hermetic Traditions. Additionally, she has been teaching Gospel Doctrine in her church for the last 8 years. She and her husband Dave reside in Salt Lake City, Utah.Have Feedback? Send the LDD team a text!

Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture, Encouragement, Hebrews 10:24-25, Hebrews 10, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture, God Loves You, Love One Another, 1 John 4:7-12, 1 John, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Hi friends!  I did get to a episode this week.   I thought I would be doing a lot of this as for the wedding so I thought I would share the power of introductions.  Original episode 71.“Make the world a bit more human in the process.”  After last week I  have thought a lot about starting conversations and that led me to explore the power of introductions.  Introductions are helpful both in writing and when meeting someone new and I share how they both can relate.  I also share how being willing to take the time to make introductions can really help everyone feel a little more at ease and comfortable, something I realized I needed to work on in my Gospel Doctrine class.  So this episode is really more of a help for me seeing the purpose of an introduction and then a few things to think about whether you are  introducing yourself or two friends.  For shownotes go to www.findingthefloor.com/ep071I would love to hear from you! You can reach me at camille@findingthefloor.com or dm @findingthefloor on instagram. Thanks for listening!!Thanks to Seth Johnson for my intro and outro original music. I love it so much!

Gospel Doctrine / Gospel Culture: Adoption, 1 John 3:1-10, 1 John 3, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Meghan is joined by Lynda Cherry in this special episode dedicated to today's Hebrew Pentecost celebration. Topics include: -  Jesus Christ as the Bridegroom- Moses' Desires for the Children of Israel- The Ancient Covenant - Cultivating Fidelity to ChristFor more than 40 years, Lynda Cherry has been a devoted student of the doctrines of Christ, a scholar of the Old Testament, and of all things related to covenant. She has made a life-time study of Israelite culture and symbolism, and is the author of “The Redemption of the Bride: God's Redeeming Love for His Covenant People,” “The Feasts and Festivals of the Messiah,” “A Passover Script for Christian Families,” and “Judah and Joseph Reunited: The Hope for Israel.”Lynda has taught BYU Continuing Education, Institute, Seminary and Adult Education classes, as well as Gospel Doctrine for more than 30 years. She has been a guest lecturer at BYU Education Week, B'Nai Shalom, and many firesides. She has led tour groups to the Holy Lands of Egypt, Jordan and Israel. She has served as president of the Relief Society, Young Women and Primary organizations of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Have Feedback? Send the LDD team a text! Awake & Ascend: The Covenant of the Fathers is coming to you virtually on June 28-29th! Register today and receive access to the two-day conference, a PDF notes packet, LIVE Q&A with the speakers, and an invitation to the LDD dinner and watch party (RSVP required; in Rigby, Idaho). Learn more.

Gospel Doctrine, Gospel Culture, Regeneration, What the Gospel Does in Us, John 3, Aaron Armstrong, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Gospel Doctrine/Gospel Culture : The Gospel is of First Importance, 1 Corinthians 15:1-5, 1 Corinthians, Dustin Neeley, Refuge Church Franklin, Franklin, Tennessee

Jennie Blaser is the ninth of 11 children and has lived all over the world: Hawaii, Utah, California, Arizona, Argentina, Slovenia, and Hong Kong. She served an 18-month mission in one branch in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and speaks English, Spanish, and Slovenian. She graduated in International Finance with a minor in Spanish from Brigham Young University, returning to earn an MBA. Jennie has taught early morning Seminary, Marriage and Family Relations, Relief Society, Sunday School, and Gospel Doctrine. She has also served as a second counselor in a Young Women presidency twice and second counselor in a Relief Society presidency five times. Jennie is currently the second counselor in her stake Young Women presidency. Dave Blaser grew up in an Air Force family and also lived all over. He served a mission in Mendoza, Argentina, graduated from BYU in Construction Management, and has worked in commercial construction management for 24 years. He is currently the executive vice president of operations for Layton Construction in Arizona. Dave has served as an elders quorum president, Young Men president, in a bishopric, and as a stake executive secretary. He currently serves as the bishop of his ward. Jennie recently published her first book, a short novel entitled One Plus One Equals Three. She was an adrenaline junkie until her body literally stopped producing adrenaline—one of the health challenges she deals with daily. Dave runs nearly every day and has finished multiple marathons. He is a parrot-head (Jimmy Buffet fan) and a Swiftie. The Blasers live in Gilbert, Arizona, and have three children. Links There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts here. Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 2:00 Kurt introduces Jennie and Dave and their callings. 3:20 Jennie shares how and why she got started researching the Church handbook. She has been on a journey of learning and has written a few articles about the youth programs. 6:30 Dave was a previous priesthood quorum advisor before he became bishop. He shares what he learned from the handbook and tried to apply it in his calling. 8:15 Always start with the handbook when beginning a calling. 9:20 Helping the young women have more interactions and feel comfortable with the bishop. The bishopric needs to be spending regular time with the young women. 10:40 The bishopric is not the Young Men presidency. Since Doctrine & Covenants 107 was written they have always been the presidency over the Aaronic priesthood and nothing has changed. 12:40 There are four different people that are critical to buy into the new system for the youth to make it a success. The first is the bishopric. They need to balance focus between Young Men and the Young Women programs. 16:10 The responsibilities of the bishop have changed in the past five years with the new focus on the youth. To help him focus on the youth, the Relief Society president and elders quorum president can step in and help with people that need help in their organizations. 18:30 Dave's ward has begun support groups in the Relief Society for people struggling. It helps take some of the load off of the bishopric and allows them to do more with the youth. 19:40 Empowering the elders quorum president and Relief Society president and delegating to them. Dave shares how he does this. 20:40 When the new handbook now states that the bishop's role is to be over both Young Men and Young Women. With the release of the Young Men presidencies it allows the young men to step up and take on more leadership and responsibility. There needs to be training done to help get this done. 26:30 Helping the young women feel more welcome, more needed, and like they have a place in the Church. 28:30 There are numerous trainings in the handbook and those trainings should happen twice a year.

www.riverbendchurch.com Sermon from: 5/8/24

www.riverbendchurch.com Sermon from: 5/1/24

Julie McAllister Hillyard was raised in Vancouver, Washington, served in the Philippines Bacolod Mission, and graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Psychology. She taught classes to male inmates and mentored female inmates at the Utah State Prison before and as she launched her career. Julie had the privilege of working and traveling with Dr. Stephen R. Covey, author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and worked with him as he developed and wrote The 8th Habit. She joined him as he consulted with leaders of countries and companies and helped him prepare and deliver presentations to audiences around the world. Julie has served in various teaching callings, including as an Institute instructor, Relief Society teacher and president, Sunday School and Gospel Doctrine teacher, and Young Women leader. She currently teaches a stake adult religion class and the high school seniors Sunday School class in her ward. Julie is married with three fabulous kids, owns a pickleball paddle company with her husband, and does consulting work in leadership and communications. She is also a host on the Teaching Restored podcast. Links Teaching Restored Podcast Teaching Sunday School with Questions | An Interview with Kevin Jones The Power of Learner Councils | A How I Lead Interview with Russell Rigby The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, by Pria Parker There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts here. Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Coming soon The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 700 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

In this episode of Priscilla Talk, the hosts interview Adrienne Lawrence, Bible teacher and pastor's wife, about how a church with gospel doctrine benefits women's lives.

Insights and realizations from teaching Gospel Doctrine yesterday…. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/everydayconversion/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/everydayconversion/support

Travis Hunt is the founder and creative director at Madeby, IPER, and Explanimate!. He has a degree in Screen production and a master's in Digital Design. In the Church, Travis has served as a Seminary teacher, Gospel Doctrine teacher, bishopric counselor, and bishop. He currently serves on his stake high council. Links There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts HERE. Watch on YouTube Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 2:30 Introduction to Travis Hunt 5:00 The church in Brisbane, Australia and some of the struggles they see 7:20 Serving as bishop and what Travis' ward was like 10:50 Principle 1 - What you bring you will eventually see in the ward. Creating a more welcoming ward. Travis brought his own energy and personality to his calling. 21:20 Principle 2 - Kindness. People feel welcome and wanted no matter what. This can happen in so many ways but as a leader sitting with people empathetically. 23:30 Putting aside the administrative side of the calling and making sure you see people and talk with them 25:00 Anxiety peaks for a lot of people on Sunday. They feel overwhelmed and Travis really wanted to change that. Is church a place that is worthy to receive everyone in whatever state they are in? 27:30 What Travis' ward did in sacrament meeting to manifest their vision of creating a more warm and welcoming ward 30:00 Leadership needs to make their vision very very clear. All the leaders in the ward need to understand and see the vision. 34:20 Principle 3 - Propinquity. After covid, Travis' ward needed to grow back together and they would get together as much as possible. Find the beautiful in other people. 41:30 Principle 4 - Lower the bar and increase participation. It might be controversial but let's make the bar so low that it's impossible not to reach it. People feel like the bar is so high that they are afraid to participate. So in some cases we really need to lower the bar. 44:30 We can also lower the bar with callings. Do people need to be perfectly worthy to have a calling? So many people are sitting on the sidelines that want to participate but aren't given the chance. How can we enable people to serve instead of limiting them? 46:40 There is a temple standard of worthiness and a chapel standard of worthiness. Chapel worthiness is if you walk through the door then you are worthy. 47:20 When you are called as a leader you inevitably stretch. Being refined as a person. The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 700 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Bill and Eric continue through the week of Christmas to take a closer look at the books given away by the First Presidency to church employees over the course of three decades. The quotes found in this book are mind-boggling. To read more on this, visit mrm.org/books-employee-gift.

Bill and Eric continue this week with the Christmas book series discussing the books given away by the LDS First Presidency over more than 3 decades. These books were made of leather and had gilded pages highlighting some of the “classics” written by general authorities over the years. To read more about these citations, visit … Continue reading Christmas Books: Gospel Doctrine Part 2 →

Bill and Eric continue this week with the Christmas book series discussing the books given away by the LDS First Presidency over more than 3 decades. These books were made of leather and had gilded pages highlighting some of the “classics” written by general authorities over the years. To read more about these citations, visit … Continue reading Christmas Books: Gospel Doctrine Part 1 →

Rebecca Smart is currently on her third career. She spent a decade working for the Government of Alberta in Tourism and Communications, chose to be a stay-at-home parent for several years, retrained, and is now working as a registered psychotherapist. She considers it a blessing to bring her skills together to help build the kingdom of God in many different ways. Rebecca serves as stake Primary president and was a counselor in the stake Primary presidency for almost three years prior to that call. Rebecca finds joy serving in the Church. Other callings have included Relief Society president, Relief Society counselor, Gospel Doctrine teacher, and Primary secretary. Rebecca lives in Ottawa, Canada with her husband, three children and Labradoodle. In her spare time she loves travel, baking, and spending time with family and friends. Links There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts HERE. Watch on YouTube Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 2:20 Rebecca talks about her area in Ottawa, Canada. 4:30 Getting called as stake Primary president. She transitioned into the position after being the first counselor in the stake Primary for three years. 6:00 Growing leaders and Primary presidents 9:15 How leadership meetings go in her stake 10:00 Working together as a presidency 11:15 The power of listening 13:20 The strength of combining personal knowledge and personal revelation 15:00 Rebecca shares her own personal experience using gospel learning and working to teach our children. 17:00 Seeking and using spiritual gifts. Bring your gifts to the people that you serve. There are a lot of spiritual gifts and it's our responsibility to seek them. 20:40 When it comes to seeking and using our gifts, it's a process and it can take a lot of time. The gifts that we need might change over time. Pray to know what gifts you need at that time. 21:50 Rebecca shares her approach to stake council meetings. 23:50 Thoughts on Primary programs. One of the most powerful things is the Primary children showing what they have learned and their testimonies. 25:30 The importance of counseling with counselors 27:50 Taking the time for needs assessments. Find out the needs of not only the adults but the children too. It's easy to get bogged down in administration or in the way we have always done something but are those things meeting the needs? 29:15 How has being a leader made you a better follower of Jesus Christ? The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 600 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Rebecca Smart is currently on her third career. She spent a decade working for the Government of Alberta in Tourism and Communications, chose to be a stay-at-home parent for several years, retrained, and is now working as a registered psychotherapist. She considers it a blessing to bring her skills together to help build the kingdom of God in many different ways. Rebecca serves as stake Primary president and was a counselor in the stake Primary presidency for almost three years prior to that call. Rebecca finds joy serving in the Church. Other callings have included Relief Society president, Relief Society counselor, Gospel Doctrine teacher, and Primary secretary. Rebecca lives in Ottawa, Canada with her husband, three children and Labradoodle. In her spare time she loves travel, baking, and spending time with family and friends. Links There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts HERE. Watch on YouTube Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Coming soon The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 600 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Nate Kimbler is currently serving as the stake president for the Ridgecrest, California stake. He has served as a bishop, bishopric counselor, high councilor, and other callings such as scoutmaster, assistant scoutmaster, elders quorum counselor, ward missionary, and Gospel Doctrine teacher. He served as a full-time missionary in the Peru Lima Central Mission and a short time in the Sacramento California Mission while waiting for a visa. Nate graduated from Brigham Young University with a BS in Physics and is married to Rachel Handly Kimbler. They have five children. He is an avid runner and has run 13 marathons to date, and also enjoys hiking and backpacking in the mountains with his children. Links There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts HERE. Listen on YouTube Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 02:40 Introduction to Nate Kimbler and getting called as stake president 05:15 Starting out as stake president and being terrified 06:30 Stake demographics and an earthquake hitting their area 11:15 Following the Spirit. It's impossible to be a stake president without God's help. Focusing on the Spirit is essential. 15:30 Nate shares a personal experience that illustrates the principle of following the Spirit. An impression that came to him was, don't let the high council be a retirement calling. 19:45 Nate talks about how he mentored and guided members of the high council. 24:40 After a meeting with Elder Holland, Nate felt inspired to stop holding high council meetings and only have stake council meetings. It made it more inclusive for the sisters involved. 26:30 They hold stake council twice a month. The first one they council about something important in their stake. The second council of the month is a very brief council subject and then they split into committees. 29:45 Another thing that Nate felt inspired to do in his stake was to invite the stake Relief Society president to all of their stake presidency meetings. Sisters sometimes see things that are going on in the stake that the men don't. They can share a unique perspective. 32:50 The sisters' involvement in their stake. The sisters can do so much and we need to empower them. 35:10 What Nate has learned about counseling others. It's not so much about counseling them but listening to them and sitting with them in their pain. 40:15 Seeing miracles in his calling as stake president. Sometimes it's not always clear to see God working but eventually you realize He was always there. Even just receiving words that someone else needs to hear. 48:40 Being a leader has helped Nate see people in a different light and see people as they really are, cherished sons and daughters of God. The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 600 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Nate Kimbler is currently serving as the stake president for the Ridgecrest, California stake. He has served as a bishop, bishopric counselor, high councilor, and other callings such as scoutmaster, assistant scoutmaster, elders quorum counselor, ward missionary, and Gospel Doctrine teacher. He served as a full-time missionary in the Peru Lima Central Mission and a short time in the Sacramento California Mission while waiting for a visa. Nate graduated from Brigham Young University with a BS in Physics and is married to Rachel Handly Kimbler. They have five children. He is an avid runner and has run 13 marathons to date, and also enjoys hiking and backpacking in the mountains with his children. Links There is already a discussion started about this podcast. Share your thoughts HERE. Listen on YouTube Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 02:40 Introduction to Nate Kimbler and getting called as stake president 05:15 Starting out as stake president and being terrified 06:30 Stake demographics and an earthquake hitting their area 11:15 Following the Spirit. It's impossible to be a stake president without God's help. Focusing on the Spirit is essential. 15:30 Nate shares a personal experience that illustrates the principle of following the Spirit. An impression that came to him was, don't let the high council be a retirement calling. 19:45 Nate talks about how he mentored and guided members of the high council. 24:40 After a meeting with Elder Holland, Nate felt inspired to stop holding high council meetings and only have stake council meetings. It made it more inclusive for the sisters involved. 26:30 They hold stake council twice a month. The first one they council about something important in their stake. The second council of the month is a very brief council subject and then they split into committees. 29:45 Another thing that Nate felt inspired to do in his stake was to invite the stake Relief Society president to all of their stake presidency meetings. Sisters sometimes see things that are going on in the stake that the men don't. They can share a unique perspective. 32:50 The sisters' involvement in their stake. The sisters can do so much and we need to empower them. 35:10 What Nate has learned about counseling others. It's not so much about counseling them but listening to them and sitting with them in their pain. 40:15 Seeing miracles in his calling as stake president. Sometimes it's not always clear to see God working but eventually you realize He was always there. Even just receiving words that someone else needs to hear. 48:40 Being a leader has helped Nate see people in a different light and see people as they really are, cherished sons and daughters of God. The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 600 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Jennifer Roach is a licensed mental health counselor living in American Fork, Utah. She joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints four years ago after being in the Protestant church her whole life. She currently serves as a Gospel Doctrine teacher in her ward. Jennifer is the recipient of this year's "John Taylor Defender of the Faith" award and the BH Robert's Research Grant. Her research primarily focuses on issues that arise when sexual abuse happens in churches. Jennifer does a weekly podcast for FAIR Latter-day Saints that focuses on questions that arise about our faith from Evangelicals. She also teaches as an adjunct for Brigham Young University-Idaho. Highlights 01:50 Kurt introduces Jennifer Roach and her background as a therapist for sexual abuse. 03:30 Jennifer will speak on four specific claims pertaining to the Church and sexual abuse and seven things that the Church does to go above and beyond what most churches do to help and protect youth. 7:00 Jennifer addresses some of the biggest questions that people have. One big question that people have is, “Is there more sexual abuse in our church or not?” Sometimes the media twists things to make it seem that way. 8:30 Boy Scout records data on abuse. Jennifer reviewed and researched all these cases from the past 80 years and was able to find how cases the Church of Jesus Christ has compared to other churches. Around 5.6% of the abuse cases were Latter-day Saint related. 19:10 Why doesn't the Church do background checks? Jennifer explains the three issues with background checks. The issue of delayed disclosure. Most people don't disclose the abuse they received until they're in their 50s to 70s. Background checks are not thorough. It's not a deep dive into someone's past. It only shows convicted crimes but not accusations. It only covers the past 7 years. 29:30 The danger of telling people that someone has been background checked. We believe that means this person is squeaky clean and they can be trusted. It really means that they don't have convictions and they aren't on the sex offenders list but it does not mean they are safe. 32:20 Jennifer talks about the case from the previous year. The man passed the federal background check every year despite doing horrific things to his own children and none of it was on his record. 34:20 The Church's helpline. There have been a lot of claims accusing the Church's helpline of hiding abuse but if we look deeper into the case we find most of these claims are untrue. 38:00 Why do we need a helpline? It helps leaders know what to report. Each state's laws are different. The helpline helps bishops fulfill their legal responsibilities and get the correct help for the victim. 48:00 There are standard best practices when working with youth and the Church follows all of them. They are all in the handbook. Another concern is there isn't always a window in the bishop's office. However, a youth can take a parent, leader, or friend into the bishop's office. It's in the handbook. 53:10 What is the Church doing that goes above and beyond those gold standard things in child protection? The helpline Disfellowshipping Gender specific leaders for young women The member number system Existing associations (go to church with your neighbors who know you) Being sustained Being called 1:10:50 How can we be better at detecting abuse that is currently going on? Most of the time kids disclose abuse by accident. They normally aren't going to disclose it to you directly. 1:22:50 Is there anything else we can do to help stop abuse? Links Jennifer's Presentation Slides: PowerPoint format | PDF format 4 Reasons Why Bishops Should Be Meeting with Youth | An Interview with Jennifer Roach Reporting Abuse, Church Helpline, & the Bishop | An Interview with Jennifer Roach Jennifer's work at Public Square There is already a discussion started about this podcast.

Jennifer Roach is a licensed mental health counselor living in American Fork, Utah. She joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints four years ago after being in the Protestant church her whole life. She currently serves as a Gospel Doctrine teacher in her ward. Jennifer is the recipient of this year's "John Taylor Defender of the Faith" award and the BH Robert's Research Grant. Her research primarily focuses on issues that arise when sexual abuse happens in churches. Jennifer does a weekly podcast for FAIR Latter-day Saints that focuses on questions that arise about our faith from Evangelicals. She also teaches as an adjunct for Brigham Young University-Idaho. Highlights 01:50 Kurt introduces Jennifer Roach and her background as a therapist for sexual abuse. 03:30 Jennifer will speak on four specific claims pertaining to the Church and sexual abuse and seven things that the Church does to go above and beyond what most churches do to help and protect youth. 7:00 Jennifer addresses some of the biggest questions that people have. One big question that people have is, “Is there more sexual abuse in our church or not?” Sometimes the media twists things to make it seem that way. 8:30 Boy Scout records data on abuse. Jennifer reviewed and researched all these cases from the past 80 years and was able to find how cases the Church of Jesus Christ has compared to other churches. Around 5.6% of the abuse cases were Latter-day Saint related. 19:10 Why doesn't the Church do background checks? Jennifer explains the three issues with background checks. The issue of delayed disclosure. Most people don't disclose the abuse they received until they're in their 50s to 70s. Background checks are not thorough. It's not a deep dive into someone's past. It only shows convicted crimes but not accusations. It only covers the past 7 years. 29:30 The danger of telling people that someone has been background checked. We believe that means this person is squeaky clean and they can be trusted. It really means that they don't have convictions and they aren't on the sex offenders list but it does not mean they are safe. 32:20 Jennifer talks about the case from the previous year. The man passed the federal background check every year despite doing horrific things to his own children and none of it was on his record. 34:20 The Church's helpline. There have been a lot of claims accusing the Church's helpline of hiding abuse but if we look deeper into the case we find most of these claims are untrue. 38:00 Why do we need a helpline? It helps leaders know what to report. Each state's laws are different. The helpline helps bishops fulfill their legal responsibilities and get the correct help for the victim. 48:00 There are standard best practices when working with youth and the Church follows all of them. They are all in the handbook. Another concern is there isn't always a window in the bishop's office. However, a youth can take a parent, leader, or friend into the bishop's office. It's in the handbook. 53:10 What is the Church doing that goes above and beyond those gold standard things in child protection? The helpline Disfellowshipping Gender specific leaders for young women The member number system Existing associations (go to church with your neighbors who know you) Being sustained Being called 1:10:50 How can we be better at detecting abuse that is currently going on? Most of the time kids disclose abuse by accident. They normally aren't going to disclose it to you directly. 1:22:50 Is there anything else we can do to help stop abuse? Links Jennifer's Presentation Slides: PowerPoint format | PDF format 4 Reasons Why Bishops Should Be Meeting with Youth | An Interview with Jennifer Roach Reporting Abuse, Church Helpline, & the Bishop | An Interview with Jennifer Roach Jennifer's work at Public Square There is already a discussion started about this podcast.

Jill Johnson was born and raised in Cache Valley, Utah. She graduated with a dual major in Elementary Education and Special Education from Utah State University and taught both high school resource classes and fourth grade before beginning a career as full-time mom. She is a self-taught graphic designer and designs for several companies including Snapfish and Swivelhead. Jill served in the Venezuela Valencia Mission and has had a variety of ward and stake callings, including Gospel Doctrine teacher, ward Relief Society president, ward Young Women president, stake Young Women president, and stake Primary secretary. Her favorite calling of all time is stake Young Women camp leader. Jill currently serves as the Primary president for her stake. She lives in South Jordan, Utah with her husband, three children and a puppy named Ginny. Highlights 04:20 Jill's background and her experience at the Leading Saints women's retreat. 07:50 The story behind Jill getting called to be the stake Primary president. 08:30 Stepping into her role as stake Primary president. The difficulty of starting. 12:00 Elevate Primary and elevate yourself. 15:30 #1 Elevate Jesus in Primary. Four ways to invite Jesus into Primary. Begin with Jesus - more pictures of Jesus up front Center on Jesus - saying His name more often. Focus teaching on Him. Focus on the children End with Jesus - always ending Primary with a testimony of Jesus 20:40 #2 Elevate leadership of Primary Model a clear vision Model clear communication 28:30 #3 Elevate Stake Primary calling What does the stake Primary even do? How would Jesus serve if He was in your calling? Be more present in the wards so that people actually know you The stake is the guardian over the structure. Making sure the organization is running according to the handbook. 34:00 Issues that seem to come up in Primary over and over again. Jill shares ways to help with these conflicts and issues. Teachers feeling lonely and forgotten Issue of conflict between Bishoprics & Primary presidents 40:00 In the Church we used to lose our youth at 14 or 15 years old but now we are losing them at 10 or 11. There is a need to elevate Primary and really focus on the children at a young age. 43:40 Jill shares her testimony on leadership and how it has changed her. Links Read the TRANSCRIPT of this podcast Watch on YouTube Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 600 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Jill Johnson was born and raised in Cache Valley, Utah. She graduated with a dual major in Elementary Education and Special Education from Utah State University and taught both high school resource classes and fourth grade before beginning a career as full-time mom. She is a self-taught graphic designer and designs for several companies including Snapfish and Swivelhead. Jill served in the Venezuela Valencia Mission and has had a variety of ward and stake callings, including Gospel Doctrine teacher, ward Relief Society president, ward Young Women president, stake Young Women president, and stake Primary secretary. Her favorite calling of all time is stake Young Women camp leader. Jill currently serves as the Primary president for her stake. She lives in South Jordan, Utah with her husband, three children and a puppy named Ginny. Highlights 04:20 Jill's background and her experience at the Leading Saints women's retreat. 07:50 The story behind Jill getting called to be the stake Primary president. 08:30 Stepping into her role as stake Primary president. The difficulty of starting. 12:00 Elevate Primary and elevate yourself. 15:30 #1 Elevate Jesus in Primary. Four ways to invite Jesus into Primary. Begin with Jesus - more pictures of Jesus up front Center on Jesus - saying His name more often. Focus teaching on Him. Focus on the children End with Jesus - always ending Primary with a testimony of Jesus 20:40 #2 Elevate leadership of Primary Model a clear vision Model clear communication 28:30 #3 Elevate Stake Primary calling What does the stake Primary even do? How would Jesus serve if He was in your calling? Be more present in the wards so that people actually know you The stake is the guardian over the structure. Making sure the organization is running according to the handbook. 34:00 Issues that seem to come up in Primary over and over again. Jill shares ways to help with these conflicts and issues. Teachers feeling lonely and forgotten Issue of conflict between Bishoprics & Primary presidents 40:00 In the Church we used to lose our youth at 14 or 15 years old but now we are losing them at 10 or 11. There is a need to elevate Primary and really focus on the children at a young age. 43:40 Jill shares her testimony on leadership and how it has changed her. Links TRANSCRIPT coming soon Watch on YouTube Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library The Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 600 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

This is Part 2 of a 2-part podcast. Listen to Part 1 HERE. Sara Newman Sara Newman currently serves as a member of her ward's Relief Society service committee in whatever capacity is needed. She earned her bachelor's degree in Family Science from Brigham Young University and enjoyed raising five children with her husband. She anticipates “retiring” soon, once her youngest is launched, and is enjoying her new role as a grandmother. She has lived in four states, served as Relief Society president in three different wards, and as Relief Society counselor, pianist, chorister, Cub Scout leader, Primary teacher and counselor, Relief Society teacher, and Gospel Doctrine teacher. Highlights 0:15 Sara speaks on being released from as Relief Society president earlier than she expected. 3:30 “I cried when I got the calling; I cried when I got released. I was surprised by it.” 5:30 Something for leaders to think about is giving leaders more time to transition when a release is coming. It can be very jarring to have a calling and the next day nothing. 6:50 There was no excitement or relief getting released. Just devastation. Sara shares the reasons why she felt so hurt when released. 9:30 Part of the devastation was loneliness and loss of the community she was a part of. Also, not feeling like she was doing a good enough job. 12:30 Looking back Sara can say the time was right to get released because of health challenges that happened. She can see the Lord's timing but at the moment it was very hard. 13:30 The first weeks after getting released were the hardest. 16:50 The bishopric and other ward council members had a small gathering to thank Sara for her service. It helped her have some closure. 19:20 Sara's encouragement to other leaders that are also going through a transition after getting released Darren Bush Darren Bush is a husband, father, and paddler who advocates outdoor activities to feel the Spirit. Darren served a mission to southern Italy, met his wife, Stephanie, at Brigham Young University, and completed degrees in Italian and Psychology at University of Wisconsin–Madison after discovering it was the best place in the world. After completing a master's degree at the University of Rochester the family moved back to Wisconsin where he eventually bought Rutabaga Paddlesports. He has previously served as a bishop, Primary teacher and nursery leader, elders quorum and Young Men president, ward missionary, high councilor, in a young single adult bishopric, and as an executive secretary and financial clerk. Highlights 20:11 Darren Bush, recently-released bishop 22:30 The relationships that were built over the past five years as bishop were gone. 24:00 The day Darren got released made him feel lighter. He didn't realize how much weight he was holding. However, it was still hard. Missing the people and seeing people's faces. 26:30 The lost puppy phase after getting released 30:00 Advice Darren was given from his uncle, a former bishop. “Don't go inactive.” 33:00 We need to separate our personal identity from our calling in the ward. 35:15 Combating loneliness after being bishop 40:45 Darren's encouragement to the former leader that is fighting loneliness Julie Kiser Julie Kiser is a graduate of Brigham Young University and currently works part-time as a professional organizer and as a part-time administrative assistant to her husband and his financial advising firm. She currently serves as a special needs mutual advisor and a Gospel Doctrine teacher. Past callings include stake YSA Relief Society president, YSA Relief Society advisor, counselor in Young Women, Primary, and Relief Society presidencies, Primary teacher, Young Women advisor and compassionate service leader. Julie has been married for 37 years and has five children. She loves spending time with her husband and family, reading, long walks with friends, traveling, hiking, cooking and baking,

This is Part 2 of a 2-part podcast. Listen to Part 1 HERE. Sara Newman Sara Newman currently serves as a member of her ward's Relief Society service committee in whatever capacity is needed. She earned her bachelor's degree in Family Science from Brigham Young University and enjoyed raising five children with her husband. She anticipates “retiring” soon, once her youngest is launched, and is enjoying her new role as a grandmother. She has lived in four states, served as Relief Society president in three different wards, and as Relief Society counselor, pianist, chorister, Cub Scout leader, Primary teacher and counselor, Relief Society teacher, and Gospel Doctrine teacher. Highlights 0:15 Sara speaks on being released from as Relief Society president earlier than she expected. 3:30 “I cried when I got the calling; I cried when I got released. I was surprised by it.” 5:30 Something for leaders to think about is giving leaders more time to transition when a release is coming. It can be very jarring to have a calling and the next day nothing. 6:50 There was no excitement or relief getting released. Just devastation. Sara shares the reasons why she felt so hurt when released. 9:30 Part of the devastation was loneliness and loss of the community she was a part of. Also, not feeling like she was doing a good enough job. 12:30 Looking back Sara can say the time was right to get released because of health challenges that happened. She can see the Lord's timing but at the moment it was very hard. 13:30 The first weeks after getting released were the hardest. 16:50 The bishopric and other ward council members had a small gathering to thank Sara for her service. It helped her have some closure. 19:20 Sara's encouragement to other leaders that are also going through a transition after getting released Darren Bush Darren Bush is a husband, father, and paddler who advocates outdoor activities to feel the Spirit. Darren served a mission to southern Italy, met his wife, Stephanie, at Brigham Young University, and completed degrees in Italian and Psychology at University of Wisconsin–Madison after discovering it was the best place in the world. After completing a master's degree at the University of Rochester the family moved back to Wisconsin where he eventually bought Rutabaga Paddlesports. He has previously served as a bishop, Primary teacher and nursery leader, elders quorum and Young Men president, ward missionary, high councilor, in a young single adult bishopric, and as an executive secretary and financial clerk. Highlights 20:11 Darren Bush, recently-released bishop 22:30 The relationships that were built over the past five years as bishop were gone. 24:00 The day Darren got released made him feel lighter. He didn't realize how much weight he was holding. However, it was still hard. Missing the people and seeing people's faces. 26:30 The lost puppy phase after getting released 30:00 Advice Darren was given from his uncle, a former bishop. “Don't go inactive.” 33:00 We need to separate our personal identity from our calling in the ward. 35:15 Combating loneliness after being bishop 40:45 Darren's encouragement to the former leader that is fighting loneliness Julie Kiser Julie Kiser is a graduate of Brigham Young University and currently works part-time as a professional organizer and as a part-time administrative assistant to her husband and his financial advising firm. She currently serves as a special needs mutual advisor and a Gospel Doctrine teacher. Past callings include stake YSA Relief Society president, YSA Relief Society advisor, counselor in Young Women, Primary, and Relief Society presidencies, Primary teacher, Young Women advisor and compassionate service leader. Julie has been married for 37 years and has five children. She loves spending time with her husband and family, reading, long walks with friends, traveling, hiking, cooking and baking,

Kurt Brown hails from Sacramento, California, where his family joined the Church when he was young. He played two years of college basketball, studied Finance and Economics at Brigham Young University, and dropped out senior year to go to Wall Street, where he was a trader on the New York Stock Exchange and the co-manager of an investment fund for 13 years. He started his own firm, TownSquare Capital, in 2018 and sold it to a larger, national firm (Orion) in 2022. In the Church, his callings have included single adult ward bishop, Young Men president, scoutmaster, Gospel Doctrine teacher, elders quorum president, and ward clerk. He served in the Canada Halifax mission. Kurt and his wife, Katie, have been married 16 years and have four children: one biological son, an adopted daughter, and two special-needs foster children they adopted. Kurt and Katie have been called to serve as the mission leaders of the Washington Tacoma Mission starting July 2023. Highlights 03:40 Introduction to Kurt Brown, his childhood, his family joining the church, and his mission. 12:30 Working at wall street, going to college, and playing basketball. 15:20 Slipping away from the church for a time. Kurt's faith journey and ending up back in Utah. 19:00 Coming back to Utah, getting his life back in order, got married at 35. 21:30 Kurt helped create a mid singles ward in Provo, Utah and was the bishop of that ward. He talks about what he did to start the ward. 30:00 Establishing positive culture at church. They did this by creating a space that felt like the savior was present. The first weeks they had 120 people and within 5 months they had 500 people attending. 33:30 The experience that people need at church is to feel warm and welcomed. Every Sunday after sacrament meeting they would break into visitors meeting. Kurt shares what they would share with people in those meetings. 36:30 From the very first visitor's meeting they established the culture. Everyone got vulnerable, shared their stories. Every single meeting was focused on helping people feel hope and the holy ghost. 37:50 There is something powerful about sharing our stories. When hearing people's stories we need to have as much compassion as the savior would. 40:00 You aren't the gatekeeper. You are the welcoming committee. 41:30 In three years they never assigned a topic for sacrament meeting. 42:15 Kurt constantly invited people to come see him and unload their pain on him. 43:20 Kurt shares an experience with President Eyring. President Eyring taught that while we are a handbook heavy church, the handbook is not what we are doing. It's about love, not a checklist from the handbook. 45:40 After serving as bishop, Kurt has been able to see people in a completely different way. He is no longer a harsh judge. 47:50 Creating a bishop's office that is a place to unload pain and feel hope. 49:00 Too many bishops insert themselves too much in other people's repentance process. You are not their parole office. You are their advocate. You help carry the baggage. 52:20 Helping people with repentance Setting the framework The people choose their own path to repentance, not the bishop Take the focus off the shame and shift it to creating better self worth 1:02:30 Letting people choose their own path to repentance. What's meaningful and personal to people is different and that's why a repentance checklist from the bishop isn't going to work for everyone. They have to work with the spirit to find out what they need to do to repent. 1:05:00 Disciplinary council is the last resort. We have to lean to the side of compassion and listen to the spirit. 1:08:45 Getting in trouble as bishop because he refused to kick anyone out of the ward just because they didn't live in the boundaries. He felt strongly about protecting ‘the one' and giving them a home. 1:12:20 Getting called as mission president.

Keyth Pankau was baptized a member of the Church about six months after joining the Navy when he was 21 years old. He spent nine years in the Navy, including deployments to Fallujah, Iraq, as a member of a convoy security team, and providing relief immediately following Hurricane Katrina. During this time he obtained a degree in Persian Studies from the Defense Language Institute and a bachelor of science. Keyth continued to serve in the Church between deployments as a youth Sunday School teacher, a Gospel Doctrine teacher, a counselor in the Young Men presidency, and a scoutmaster, along with serving while deployed as a sacrament group leader. Keyth was selected as a Direct Commission Intelligence Officer and switched over to the Coast Guard where he continued a life of travel and service with much shorter trips. He was a dual career track officer (Intelligence/Operations Ashore Response) where he specialized in crisis/emergency management. In the Coast Guard, Keyth also completed his Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University and a Master of Science in Environmental from Louisiana State University. During this time, Keyth served as a 2nd counselor in a Young Men's presidency, scoutmaster, Young Men president, second counselor in a bishopric, ward mission leader, and a branch president. When the Baton Rouge Temple was rededicated he started serving as an ordinance worker and continues in that capacity today. He is also the bishop of his ward and has been serving for about a year. Keyth currently works as a civil servant for the Coast Guard and is pursuing a doctor of education in Applied Learning Sciences from the University of Miami. He is the producer, host, and content creator of the podcast "That ALL Might Be Edified: Discussions on Servant Leadership". Keyth and his wife Tiffany have two daughters and one granddaughter. Originally from Washington, Keyth spent about a year in Illinois and met Tiffany in California. They have also served & lived in Georgia, Alaska, and twice in Louisiana, where they now reside. Highlights 02:00 Introduction to Keyth and the episode theme 03:20 Keyth's background in the Coast Guard, serving as bishop, and his podcast 07:15 Search and rescue and how it relates to church leadership 13:41 The indicators that we can use in the Church to search for the individuals who might need rescue 15:10 Keyth shares a personal experience he has had with a member in his ward. 19:10 Coming together as a ward council to help one individual: Keyth shares how a targeted approach can work in search and rescue. 21:00 Finding the families that need help. How do you do it? What to look for and tools to help. Your ward council is your team. 27:30 Not everyone wants to be rescued. Not everyone is excited to help either. We have to try to help them understand that the Lord wants what is best for them. 33:10 Who are the bystanders in the ward? Who is not active in the Lord's vineyard? What invitations could we make to them to help them feel the Lord's love? 37:40 Coming together as a ward council to find people that need invitations 39:15 Helping the bystander. It's more than just giving them a calling. We need to invite them to do inspired things. Maybe what they need is help finding friends. 41:40 Keyth shares an analogy about boats and making sure they are seaworthy. In the same way individuals have to be ready and "seaworthy" before they can go out and rescue others. 49:20 As a council we have to learn how to ask better questions. What do you like? What works for you? What skills do you have? We have to understand who someone is and what skills they have. Then we can harness those gifts and skills to help them get active in the vineyard. 50:20 Where are you at? How are you really doing? Get used to asking these questions and create an environment where people will answer you truthfully and vulnerably.