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In the inaugural episode of Dialogue Unbound, co-editors Caroline Kline and Margaret Olsen Hemming sit down with scholar Patrick Mason to explore what Mormon theology has to say about peace and peacemaking in our turbulent… The post Mormonism and Peacebuilding: A Conversation with Patrick Mason appeared first on Dialogue Journal.
What makes An Unexpected Journey the strongest Hobbit film? Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Rob Leonardi debate Bilbo's wit, Thorin's grit, Radagast's quirks, and whether Jackson's changes strengthened or weakened Tolkien's tale. The post The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Recently a documentary series entitled "An Inconvenient Faith" appeared on YouTube, produced by Robert Reynolds and Jim Bennett (among others). The documentary seeks to promote progressive Mormonism within LDS church membership. The documentary is groundbreaking in the sense that it includes both Ex-Mormons (e.g. Jeremy Runnells, Sandra Tanner, John Dehlin, Bill Reel) and faithful Mormon scholars (e.g. Richard Bushman, Terryl & Fiona Givens, Patrick Mason). The series has also received a considerable amount of excitement and critique on the Internet.Please join Mormon Stories for a livestream as a panel (John Dehlin, Bishop Beau Oyler, Julie Hanks, and Jana Spangler) react to the documentary. We welcome your participation as well!View the documentary here.___________________YouTubeAt Mormon Stories we explore, celebrate, and challenge Mormon culture through in-depth stories told by members and former members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as well as scholars, authors, LDS apologists, and other professionals. Our overall mission is to: 1. Facilitate informed consent amongst LDS Church members, investigators, and non-members regarding Mormon history, doctrine, and theology2. Support Mormons (and members of other high-demand religions) who are experiencing a religious faith crisis3. Promote healing, growth and community for those who choose to leave the LDS Church or other high demand religions
Is Totoro really about courage, faith, and family? Bold claim: no villain, still gripping. Patrick Mason, Victor Lams, and Jeff Haecker debate Catbus magic, Shinto notes, and dub vs. sub. The post The Secrets of My Neighbor Totoro appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Was Thingol's pride a greater curse than Morgoth's malice? In The Ruin of Doriath, Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason & Rob Leonardi confront greed, betrayal, and the Second Kinslaying. Is this Tolkien's darkest tragedy? The post Of the Ruin of Doriath appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Is Marvel finally back to form? Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason, and Rob Leonardi unpack Thunderbolts: redemption arcs, mental health, Valentina's dangerous schemes, and a shocking Fantastic Four tease. The post The Secrets of the Thunderbolts appeared first on StarQuest Media.
How does Andor reshape the way we see Rogue One? Patrick Mason, Jeff Haecker, and Angela Sealana unpack Mon Mothma's sacrifices, Saw Guerrera's fanaticism, Krennic's menace, and Cassian's fate. Is this Star Wars' most seamless story bridge? The post Rogue One Andor Retrospective appeared first on StarQuest Media.
September 8-14 | D&C 98-101 | Joined by scholar Patrick Mason and special guest Jill McAuley.
Is the Empire more terrifying when it's human? As Krennic asserts brutal control and Kleya unravels, Patrick Mason, Kathryn Laffrey, and Angela Sealana unpack the moral ambiguity and rising chaos in Andor S2E11. The post Andor: S2, Ep 11: Who Else Knows? appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Power corrupts, but who decides justice? The clash between Daredevil and Fisk ignites again as Season 1 of Born Again asks: can heroes work within a broken system? Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason, and Rob Leonardi dissect every twist. The post The Secrets of Daredevil: Born Again appeared first on StarQuest Media.
SSW237: Can the Rebellion survive its own darkness? Patrick Mason, Jeff Haecker, and Jason Eugea reflect on Luthen's fall, Kleya’s heartbreaking choice, and Dedra's collapse in Andor’s Make It Stop. Get all new episodes automatically and for free: Follow by Email | Listen to this episode and subscribe on YouTube. Help us continue to offer […] The post Andor: S2, Ep 10: Make It Stop appeared first on StarQuest Media.
July 28–August 3 | D&C 84 | Joined by scholar Patrick Mason and special guest Emily Snyder, Senior Project Manager at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Did Mon Mothma finally become the Rebellion's voice? Jeff Haecker, Jon Koral, and Patrick Mason debate her transformation, Cassian's choices, and the moral shock of open war in Welcome to the Rebellion. The post Andor: S2, Ep 9: Welcome to the Rebellion appeared first on StarQuest Media.
How did a non-Mormon who teaches in Virginia get interested in Mormon History? John Turner has written the newest biography of Joseph Smith. He is a professor of History at George Mason University and has written not only the pre-eminent biography of Brigham Young, but has a new biography called "Joseph Smith: The Rise & Fall of an American Prophet." We'll discuss both of these amazing biographies and why he chooses to write about these important Mormon figures. Check out our conversation... Don't miss our other conversations with John: https://gospeltangents.com/people/john-turner/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission https://youtu.be/szj5SYdO0wA Dive Deep into Joseph Smith and Brigham Young with Historian John Turner! Are you a fan of Mormon history, science, and theology? Then you won't want to miss the latest interview on Gospel Tangents, featuring renowned East Coast scholar Dr. John Turner. Rick sat down with Dr. Turner to discuss his brand-new book, "Joseph Smith: The Rise and Fall of an American Prophet," which is set to release on Amazon on June 17th. Meet the Historian: Dr. John Turner Dr. John Turner is a professor at George Mason University in Northern Virginia. Turner's academic journey is quite interesting: He completed his undergraduate degree in History and German at Middlebury College in Vermont. He then pursued his PhD in US History at the University of Notre Dame. Interestingly, he took a detour during his PhD to earn a Master of Divinity at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, an experience he found helpful for writing about religious experience and doctrine with more information and sensitivity. Turner's interest in Latter-day Saint history was sparked by meeting "extremely winsome and engaging personalities" like Patrick Mason and Matt Grow while at Notre Dame. He also realized that the Latter-day Saint story was a bit of local history for him, having grown up near Palmyra, New York, "where it all began." Although his dissertation focused on American evangelicalism, he sought to learn new things for his second project and found the Joseph Smith and Brigham Young eras "so fascinating.” Non-Mormon Scholar's Perspective on Mormon History Dr. Turner has authored multiple books on Mormonism, including "Brigham Young: Pioneer Prophet" and "The Mormon Jesus," in addition to his new Joseph Smith biography. As a non-Mormon (he identifies as Trinitarian), Turner notes a key difference in his approach: he can express his conclusions and share his findings without worrying about "an ecclesiastical reaction" or "getting excommunicated," which might be a concern for Latter-day Saint scholars. He is "pretty single-minded" when working on a book, focusing on one project at a time. Inspiration Behind the Joseph Smith Biography Turner found it "a really good time to take on a Jo Smith biography"11. His primary motivations for writing about Joseph Smith, especially after his Brigham Young book, were twofold12: Engaging Foundational Questions: Writing about Brigham Young allowed him to largely "take for granted" core beliefs and events, but with Joseph Smith, it was an "opportunity and a challenge to return to that... foundational time period" and "engage some hard questions". These include questions about golden plates, divine messages, and Joseph's motivations for plural marriage. Joseph Smith as a Biographical Subject: Turner describes Joseph Smith as a "great biographical subject" – a "mirthful, colorful man" who is "energetic and dynamic." His public life, spanning essentially 15 years, was "packed" with events, demanding a "fast-paced story". Turner also lavishes praise on the Joseph Smith Papers project, calling it "fantastic" and an "enormously useful" resource that provided a "huge head start" due to its accurate transcriptions, images,
What happens when a group of boys must become men on a deadly cattle drive? Patrick Mason, Victor Lams, and Dom Bettinelli dissect The Cowboys, masculinity, justice, and the cost of coming of age. The post The Secrets of the Cowboys appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Is Túrin Middle-earth's most cursed soul? Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker peel back the layers of Tolkien's most tragic figure—from hero to outlaw—in this rich discussion of fate, pride, and sorrow. The post Turin Turambar, Part 1 appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Is Cassian a catalyst or just caught in the current? The panel breaks down the Force healer's cryptic message, the Rebellion's growing tensions, and the Empire's strategic setup on Ghorman. Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason, and Jon Koral unpack how characters like Syril, Bix, and Mon Mothma navigate crumbling systems and rising stakes. The post Andor: S2, Ep 7: Messenger appeared first on StarQuest Media.
PRL 6-4-25 Rahjai Harris, Ken Watlington, Randy Ramsey, James Plowright, Brandon Manning, Patrick Mason by Pirate Radio
Manipulation, moral decay, and mounting tension—this week, Patrick Mason, Kathryn Laffrey, and Jeff Haecker question Luthen's leadership, debate the ethics of vengeance, and unpack just how fractured the rebellion has become. Is Luthen worse than the Empire? The post Andor: S2, Ep 6: What A Festive Evening appeared first on StarQuest Media.
In the final episode of Season 1 of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason reflect on their journey through the Book of Mormon and the principles of the gospel that promote peacebuilding. Join them as they celebrate their journey and the pursuit of becoming better peacemakers.[00:02:45] Podcast origins and purpose.[00:04:40] Peacemaking through sacred texts.[00:08:44] Commitment to peace building.[00:13:03] Mormon peacebuilding potential.[00:16:10] Peacemakers in times of chaos.[00:22:22] Turning swords into plowshares.[00:27:29] Peacemaking as a miracle.[00:28:32] Peacemaking and miracles.[00:33:15] Handbook for peace.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace
A sequel with soul but clumsy shoes? Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason, and Rob Leonardi weigh in on Moana 2—why didn't it rise like the original? Was Moana's transformation earned? Does a demigod need community? The post The Secrets of Moana 2 appeared first on StarQuest Media.
What happens when trust erodes in a rebellion built on secrets? As Saw, Luthen, and Andor clash with paranoia and doubt, panelists Patrick Mason, Robert King, and Ryan Nafziger ask: is the Rebellion still salvageable? The post Andor: S2, Ep 5: I Have Friends Everywhere appeared first on StarQuest Media.
June 16-22 | D&C 64-66 | Joined by religious scholar Patrick Mason and special guest Michelle Craig, former First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency.
Dr. Matthew Bowman has just released a new biography on Joseph Fielding Smith. Bowman is the Howard W. Hunter Chair of Mormon Studies at Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, California. The Mormon Studies chair Bowman holds at Claremont Graduate University is the oldest in the country, having been established over 15 years ago. Bowman is the third person to hold the chair, following Richard Bushman and Patrick Mason. Patrick Mason left Claremont to take the chair at Utah State University. https://youtu.be/6VrK15TQVcY Don't miss our other episodes with Dr Matthew Bowman! https://gospeltangents.com/people/matthew-bowman/ Copyright © 2025 Gospel Tangents All Rights Reserved Except for book reviews, no content may be reproduced without written permission. Mormon Studies Other Mormon studies chairs exist at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley (held by Deidre J Green), and the University of Virginia. Although not directly affiliated with Claremont, the late Jan Shipps is credited with making the study of the Mormon tradition a legitimate academic pursuit for those outside the tradition, enabling universities like Claremont without historical ties to Mormonism to establish such a chair. Before the endowed chair, Anne Taves, a professor interested in Mormonism, taught American religious history at CGU, and Armand Mauss was involved in fundraising and occasionally taught classes. Introductions to Mormon Thought Bowman is also involved in the "Introductions to Mormon Thought" book series, which he co-edits with Joseph Spencer. Published by the University of Illinois, the series aims to stimulate the growth of Mormon intellectual history through accessible introductory volumes on important Mormon thinkers. The series broadly defines "Mormon thinkers" to include artists like CCA Christensen and Minerva Teichert, alongside more traditional intellectuals. The books are intended to be short, accessible, and explore how these individuals influenced how members of the Mormon tradition understood themselves. The series uses the term "Mormon" intentionally broadly to encompass all denominations and movements originating from Joseph Smith's work, including fundamentalist Mormons and figures from the Community of Christ. While initially planned for 10-15 books, the series is doing well and is expected to continue. Other volumes in the series cover figures such as Eugene England (by Christine Hagund), Vardis Fisher (by Mike Austin), Sonia Johnson (by Chris Talbot), Lowell Bennion (by George Handley), Hugh Nibley (by Joseph Spencer), and Richard Bushman (by JB Haws). A future volume is planned on Eliza R. Snow (by Deidre Green), and Bowman hopes for one on Sheri Dew. Joseph Fielding Smith Bowman chose to write his book in the series about Joseph Fielding Smith, though his initial interest was in Bruce R. McConkie. He agreed to write about Smith instead to secure another author's participation in the series. Bowman views Joseph Fielding Smith as Bruce R. McConkie's intellectual parent and considers him the most significant LDS theologian of the 20th century, leaving a deeper and more persistent mark than others like James E. Talmage. While McConkie was influential, Bowman sees him more as a systematizer of his father-in-law's ideas rather than being an original. Other significant 20th/21st-century Mormon thinkers mentioned include B.H. Roberts, Margarita Bautista, Sheri Dew, and Leverne Parmley.. A significant fact about Joseph Fielding Smith is that he was the grandson of Hyrum Smith and the son of Joseph F. Smith. Bowman emphasizes that being a "Smith" was incredibly important to Fielding Smith, shaping his sense of duty and responsibility to continue his family's work. His memories of his father and uncle's violent deaths and his father's need to hide from federal marshals profoundly influenced him, fostering a sense of defensiveness and a perception that the world was hostile and persecuted the family f...
What does it take to build Zion?This week on IN the Scriptures, Clare Dalton sits down with Patrick Mason, professor of religious studies and history at Utah State University, to discuss Doctrine & Covenants 51-70. These sections follow the early Saints as they moved to Missouri to establish Zion.Clare and Patrick explore what Zion really means and the effort required to create it: We must radically change our hearts and become rooted charity, inclusion and abundance to form a community where of all God's children feel at home.
Power, peace, and poisoned earth—Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind sparks a deep conversation on ecology, war, and Miyazaki's early genius. Patrick Mason, Victor Lams, Jeff Haecker, and Thomas Salerno unpack its lasting resonance. The post The Secrets of Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind appeared first on StarQuest Media.
PRL 5-14-25 Ken Watlington, Holton Ahlers, Josh Grosz, Patrick Mason by Pirate Radio
Power plays and personal betrayals churn as Cassian tangles with a chaotic rebel cell on Yavin 4, while Mon Mothma faces threats close to home. Patrick Mason and Jeff Haecker unpack Andor's deepening stakes and sharp commentary. The post Andor: S2, Ep. 2: Sagrona Teema appeared first on StarQuest Media.
What makes The Searchers one of the most iconic Westerns ever? Dom Bettinelli, Thomas Salerno, Victor Lams, Patrick Mason & Fr. Chip Hines unpack its moral tension, visual power & cultural legacy. The post The Secrets of The Searchers appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Facing uneasy alliances and creeping tyranny in Andor. Robert King, Kathryn Laffrey, and Patrick Mason unpack the season 2 premiere's tangled loyalties, gritty survival struggle, and moral ambiguity. The post Andor, S2, Ep 1: One Year Later appeared first on StarQuest Media.
In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by Scott Rasmussen from Interfaith America to reflect on their journey through the Book of Mormon as they approach the series' conclusion. They share their insights on how this process has transformed their understanding of the Book of Mormon, particularly the final book, Moroni, revealing unexpected changes in their perspectives. Join them as they discuss the impact of this journey on their views of peace and how to have hope within the hardest circumstances.[00:03:46] Moroni as a peacemaker.[00:04:43] Peacemaking softens our hearts.[00:08:35] Peacemaking through personal growth.[00:13:57] Geopolitical impact on personal lives.[00:15:23] The importance of "how" in peace.[00:18:38] Ethics of Jesus and nations.[00:24:55] Peacemaking in the Middle East.[00:26:01] Parent Circle: Voices of Loss.[00:30:40] Navigating conversations of difference.[00:36:00] Listening as a peacemaking skill.[00:38:11] Peacebuilding amidst violence and hate.[00:41:38] Non-violent conflict resolution examples.[00:45:39] Peacebuilding through faith and love.[00:51:04] Faith, hope, and love.[00:54:03] Charity as an antidote.[00:57:22] Finding peace in Christ.[01:00:00] Faith Matters Podcast Network.Find show notes, transcript and more at https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace
PRL 4-23-25 Ken Watlington, Mike Minascalco, Patrick Mason, Zach Agnos, Rahjai Harris by Pirate Radio
What makes Tolkien's dragons so unforgettable? From the sinister Glaurung to the catlike menace of Smaug, Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker unravel the lore, symbolism, and mythic roots of Middle-earth's greatest beasts. The post Dragons of Middle-Earth appeared first on StarQuest Media.
A sharp look at Captain America: Brave New World and the MCU's evolving path. Patrick Mason, Jeff Haecker, and Andrew Hermiz unpack Red Hulk, legacy arcs, and recent Marvel hits and misses—from What If? to Agatha All Along. The post The Secrets of Captain America: Brave New World appeared first on StarQuest Media.
PRL 4-16-25 Holton Ahlers, Shane Winkler, Patrick Mason, Ken Watlington, Rahjai Harris by Pirate Radio
Ferrix, heists, prisons, rebellion—Patrick Mason, Robert King, and Jeff Haecker revisit Andor Season 1's grounded storytelling, standout performances, and subtle rebellion themes. They share favorites, emotional moments, and hopes for Season 2. The post Andor Season One Revisited appeared first on StarQuest Media.
In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason explore a broader understanding of peace and peacemaking. They emphasize the importance of expanding the conversation to include diverse perspectives and forms of peace. Joining them is Dr. Jeannie Johnson, a popular professor of political science at Utah State University and director of the Groundbreaking Center for Anticipatory Intelligence. Dr. Johnson shares her insights and expertise, highlighting the significance of preparing students to contribute positively to the world. This episode encourages listeners to rethink their definitions of peace and engage in meaningful discussions about how to foster it in various contexts.[00:03:29] Defining peace within oneself.[00:04:52] Peace in complex environments.[00:11:58] Wicked problems in national security.[00:15:23] Importance of building institutions.[00:18:08] Resilience in institutions and individuals.[00:22:18] Models of peacemaking in Ammon.[00:27:32] Power in choosing peace.[00:31:06] The power of conscious choice.[00:35:57] Peace through strength exploration.[00:39:44] Peacemaking in national security.[00:46:26] Finding peace through scripture.[00:48:12] Making peace in your life.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace
Tolkien's most devastating chapter takes center stage: the Battle of Unnumbered Tears. Fingon's fall, dwarven defiance, and Morgoth's dark triumph are unpacked by Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker. The post The Battle of Unnumbered Tears appeared first on StarQuest Media.
What makes a Star Wars battle truly unforgettable? Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Jeff Haecker unpack the most pivotal fights across canon and Legends, from Scarif to Umbara, Thrawn to Hoth, and the tactics that made them legendary. The post The Best Battles in Star Wars from Hoth to Scarif and Everything Between appeared first on StarQuest Media.
PRL 4-2-25 Zach Kaplan, Patrick Mason, Holton Ahlers, Rahjai Harris by Pirate Radio
In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by Rosalynde Welch to dive into the Book of Ether, a lesser-known book within the Book of Mormon. They discuss its unique historical context and the challenges it presents, while highlighting its valuable lessons for peacemaking. The conversation centers on the importance of making thoughtful decisions during difficult times, emphasizing how individuals can contribute to a culture of peace amidst societal conflict. Join them as they explore the rich principles found in the Book of Ether that can guide us toward becoming better peacemakers.[00:01:37] Moments of change and decision.[00:04:18] Peace as a fruit of the Spirit.[00:10:59] Theological vs. Doctrinal Reading.[00:12:36] Theological reading of scriptures.[00:19:07] Chosen land thesis in history.[00:22:11] Urgent call to modern readers.[00:24:56] Jaredite governance and kingship.[00:28:50] Governance systems and instability.[00:34:14] Fraternal conflict in governance.[00:39:06] Political polarization and its consequences.[00:40:20] The role of civic space.[00:47:32] Breaking the cycle of violence.[00:50:48] Wealth and human flourishing.[00:54:19] Secret combinations and conspiratorial thinking.[00:57:30] A better way to live.[01:02:08] Stories of peace and creativity.[01:05:15] Story of redemption.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace
PRL 3-26-25 Rahjai Harris, Ken Watlington, Patrick Mason, Holton Ahlers by Pirate Radio
Celebrate Tolkien Reading Day 2025 as we celebrate the bonds of friendship, loyalty, and courage in Middle-earth. Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason share powerful passages that reveal Tolkien's heart for fellowship and community. The post Tolkien Reading Day 2025: Fellowship and Community appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Star Wars fan films bring humor, heart, and heroics to the galaxy far, far away! Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, and Kathryn Laffrey spotlight the best—from LEGO laughs to Vader's redemption—in this tribute to fan-made brilliance. The post From the Fans, For the Force: Celebrating Star Wars Fan Films appeared first on StarQuest Media.
Whisked into a world of talking cats, royal intrigue, and whimsical adventure, The Cat Returns enchants with its charm. Patrick Mason, Victor Lams, and Jeff Haecker break down its themes, animation, stellar voice cast, and connections to Whisper of the Heart. The post The Secrets of The Cat Returns appeared first on StarQuest Media.
PRL 3-19-25 Rahjai Harris, Holton Ahlers, Ken Watlington, Patrick Mason, Blake Harrell by Pirate Radio
Beren and Lúthien's legendary love story takes center stage! Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason break down its epic moments, from Sauron's defeat to the Silmaril's power and Lúthien's fateful choice. Magic, fate, and heroism collide in Tolkien's masterpiece! The post Beren and Luthien, Part 2 appeared first on StarQuest Media.
PRL 3-12-25 Ken Watlington, Patrick Mason, Emma Jackson, Morgan Johnson, Annie Kate Dalton, Holton Ahlers by Pirate Radio
A book-loving girl, a violin maker, and a mysterious cat—Whisper of the Heart is a heartfelt Ghibli tale of love, dreams, and self-discovery. Patrick Mason, Jeff Haecker, and Victor Lams discuss its stunning visuals, timeless themes, and the magic of Country Roads. The post The Secrets of Whisper of the Heart appeared first on StarQuest Media.
The House of Finwë shaped the fate of the Noldor, from Fëanor's fiery rebellion to Fingolfin's heroism and Finarfin's wisdom. Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, and Patrick Mason recount the family's triumphs, tragedies, and the doom that followed their choices. The post The House of Finwe appeared first on StarQuest Media.