Podcast appearances and mentions of Patrick Mason

Today we're wrapping up our week of Unpacking Polygamy with a very honest, illuminating and challenging conversation among three faithful friends: Bethany Brady Spaulding, Patrick Mason and Bill Turnbull. Together, they tackle the profound theological problems that polygamy presents, particularly as it is laid out in what is perhaps the most challenging scripture in our canon—Section 132 of the Doctrine and Covenants. They compare and contrast Section 132 with what God has revealed elsewhere in scripture and with what the church actually teaches today. And they consider the question of whether it is possible for the church to actually move on from polygamy if section 132 continues to be taught as inspired scripture. Along the way, they celebrate the restored gospel's teaching of a higher and holier order of celestial union—couples sealed together for eternity as intimate, equal partners.This conversation was originally inspired by an essay written by Bill and Susan Turnbull, two of Faith Matters founders, titled “One Couple's Wrestle with Polygamy.” It's a fascinating and compelling piece and we encourage you to check it out. You can also find Bill's essay on the Abrahamic Test on our website, faithmatters.org.Faithfulness in any relationship, including our relationship with God and with the Church, requires not just generosity but also a willingness to acknowledge and honestly address problems. This is a conversation full of both generosity and honesty. We hope you are challenged and inspired by it.This episode is part of a five-part series on polygamy. We invite you to listen to all five episodes for a range of perspectives and voices on this important topic. You can find even more resources on our website, faithmatters.org. Become a paid subscriber to Wayfare Magazine before December 1 to receive Issue 6, the prophecy issue, in the mail! This is a beautifully bound print magazine with full color art and work by writers like Adam Miller, Hannah Packard Crowther, James Goldberg, Camilla Stark, Matt Bowman, Jenny Richards, Terryl Givens, and more. Visit wayfaremagazine.org/subscribe to learn more.

Today we're welcoming back Patrick Mason for a conversation with author and historian Brittany Chapman Nash.In this episode, Patrick and Brittany explore what plural marriage looked like in the early Utah period—how it was lived, how it was taught, and why so many Latter-day Saints practiced it with such deep conviction. Brittany shares stories from women whose voices often go unheard, and helps us understand not just the spiritual and theological motivations behind polygamy, but the complexity, nuance, and sometimes heartbreak that came with it.She offers a window into the hopes, sacrifices, and faith of those who lived this principle—and reflects on what that legacy means for us today.You can learn more in Brittany's book Let's Talk about Polygamy, which was published by Deseret Book. This episode is part of a five-part series on polygamy. We invite you to listen to all five episodes for a range of perspectives and voices on this important topic. You can find even more resources on our website, faithmatters.org. Become a paid subscriber to Wayfare Magazine before December 1 to receive Issue 6, the prophecy issue, in the mail! This is a beautifully bound print magazine with full color art and work by writers like Adam Miller, Hannah Packard Crowther, James Goldberg, Camilla Stark, Matt Bowman, Jenny Richards, Terryl Givens, and more. Visit wayfaremagazine.org/subscribe to learn more.

Today's episode kicks off our five-part series Unpacking Polygamy—a deep dive into one of the most complex and sensitive topics in our church's history. We hope you'll listen to the full series, where you'll hear from a variety of voices and perspectives that help illuminate this part of our shared story.To start us off, we're honored to bring together two remarkable thinkers. Patrick Mason is a historian, author, and Leonard J. Arrington Chair of Mormon History and Culture at Utah State University and co-host of Proclaim Peace, another Faith Matters network podcast. Laurel Thatcher Ulrich is a Pulitzer Prize–winning historian, and professor emerita at Harvard University.In this episode, Patrick and Laurel explore what we actually know—and how we know what we know—about Joseph Smith's involvement in plural marriage, how the practice evolved in early Utah, and the theological, social, and gender dynamics that shaped it. Laurel also shares reflections from teaching a comparative polygamy course at Harvard, and considers how the echoes of plural marriage still reverberate today in our doctrine, culture, and hearts.We're so grateful to both Patrick and Laurel for their honesty, curiosity, and compassion.You can find even more resources on this important topic on our website, faithmatters.org.Find Laurel's groundbreaking book A House Full of Females on Bookshop.org or Amazon.Become a paid subscriber to Wayfare Magazine before December 1 to receive Issue 6, the prophecy issue, in the mail! This is a beautifully bound print magazine with full color art and work by writers like Adam Miller, Hannah Packard Crowther, James Goldberg, Camilla Stark, Matt Bowman, Jenny Richards, Terryl Givens, and more. Visit wayfaremagazine.org/subscribe to learn more.

Númenor teeters on ruin as fear of death eclipses faith. Is mortality a gift or a curse? Thomas Salerno, Rob Leonardi, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason dissect Tolkien's Atlantis myth and its spiritual echoes. The post Akallabeth, Part 1 appeared first on StarQuest Media.

Rotta the Hutt returns? Grogu fights a giant lizard? The trailer for The Mandalorian & Grogu sparks wild theories about Thrawn's rise, Zeb's role, and a possible heist. Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno & Patrick Mason break it all down. The post Mandalorian & Grogu Trailer Breakdown: Wild Predictions & Hidden Clues appeared first on StarQuest Media.

What if shame gave demons power? The panel dissects K-Pop Demon Hunters, from Korean folklore to spiritual warfare and idol culture. Patrick Mason, Angela Sealana, Maria Johnson, and Isabella Bettinelli uncover what's beneath the glam. The post The Secrets of K-Pop Demon Hunters appeared first on StarQuest Media.

Dr. Ralph Hancock, political philosophy professor, talks about Dr. Patrick Mason's "Proclaim Peace." Dr. Mason is the Latter-day Saint icon in academic circles on the topic of "Peace" and "Peacemaking." But is his approach tenable for Latter-day Saints? Is it congruent with gospel principles or is is built on a framework of social justice? Website: www.cwicmedia.com

What do Tolkien's ghosts reveal about sin, redemption, and the afterlife? Jeff Haecker, Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason & Rob Leonardi uncover the undead of Middle-earth—from barrow-wights to Nazgûl—and their spiritual meaning The post Ghosts and Undead of Middle Earth appeared first on StarQuest Media.

Superman's humanity takes center stage in James Gunn's debut DCU film. Rob Leonardi, Jeff Haecker, and Patrick Mason dissect the politics, pacing, and punch of this reboot, asking: Can Superman be too human? The post The Secrets of Superman (2025) appeared first on StarQuest Media.

Can mercy undo millennia of pride? Thomas Salerno, Patrick Mason, Jeff Haecker, and Rob Leonardi tackle Eärendil's voyage, the Valar's return, and Morgoth's ruin—where hope is forged from doom. The post Voyage of Earendil and the War of Wrath appeared first on StarQuest Media.

LEGO chaos with meaning: Can a Force myriad save a rebuilt galaxy? Patrick Mason, Kathryn Laffrey, and Jeff Haecker weigh Solitus, the Sig/Dev bond, and wild cameos. Building beats breaking—always? The post LEGO Rebuild the Galaxy appeared first on StarQuest Media.

For this 3 part bonus mini series, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason engage in a thoughtful conversation with Paul Lambert from the Wheatley Institute. Together, they explore the complex emotions and tensions that members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints may experience when feeling attacked or judged. The discussion highlights three common responses: retreating inward, trying to correct misunderstandings, and defending one's beliefs. Paul offers insights on how grounding oneself in the teachings of Jesus Christ can lead to unexpected, outward-focused actions that promote peace and understanding. [00:00:26] Religious pluralism in society.[00:06:01] The importance of religion.[00:07:34] Peacemakers in a divided world.[00:10:54] Public benefits of living faith.[00:15:25] Principles for harmony and respect.[00:17:02] Living faith publicly on social media.[00:20:12] Christ's example of invited discourse.[00:26:58] Faith and compassion in relationship.[00:27:40] Building non-contentious settings.[00:32:38] Spiritual identity over political identity.[00:35:17] Interfaith work's significance.[00:39:17] Faith as the first principle.[00:42:44] Interfaith engagement for flourishing society.[00:45:41] Peace through communion with God.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peaceTo register for Repair, happening Oct 23 - 25th, 2025 in Provo, UT, go to https://waymakers.substack.com

For this 3 part bonus mini series, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by Aaron Dorfman of A More Perfect Union to explore the experiences of Latter-day Saints as a minority community, especially in the wake of recent events that highlight the challenges faced by religious minorities. They reflect on the importance of understanding the dynamics of being part of a smaller faith community, particularly outside of Utah, and the varied relationships that can arise from this position. The discussion emphasizes the opportunity to learn from other communities, particularly the Jewish community, which has a long history of navigating religious minority status in often unfriendly societies. [00:01:47] Religious minorities and their impact.[00:05:11] No one is defined by worst.[00:07:15] Antisemitism and misinformation strategies.[00:12:10] Standing up for communities.[00:14:20] Easing suffering through community engagement.[00:20:14] Tikkun olam: repairing the world.[00:21:40] Collaborative repair of the world.[00:25:08] Faith's role in democracy.[00:28:33] Shabbat dinner family ritual.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peaceTo register for Repair, happening Oct 23 - 25th, 2025 in Provo, UT, go to https://waymakers.substack.com

For this 3 part bonus mini series, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by Nealin Parker from Common Ground to reflect on recent tragic events affecting the Latter-day Saint community, including the death of President Nelson and a horrific attack on a local ward that resulted in multiple fatalities. As they process these heavy developments, they discuss the emotional toll on church members and the broader implications for peace. The episode serves as a heartfelt exploration of grief, community resilience, and the principles of the gospel that can guide us in difficult times. [00:02:19] Peacemaking in challenging times.[00:06:00] Redemptive suffering and compassion.[00:10:01] Conflict's enduring legacy in towns.[00:12:00] Long shadow of violence.[00:16:50] Gentleness as antidote to fear.[00:20:33] Fear replaced by love.[00:25:42] Community support in tragedy.[00:28:39] Prayer and gratitude for peace.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peaceTo register for Repair, happening Oct 23 - 25th, 2025 in Provo, UT, go to https://waymakers.substack.com

It was a hard weekend for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Longtime leader Russell M. Nelson died on Saturday at the age of 101. On Sunday, a deadly attack on a Mormon congregation in Michigan killed at least four people. We look back on Nelson's life and leadership with Patrick Mason, chair of Mormon history at Utah State University. Then, a new survey of 60 cities from the U.S. Conference of Mayors finds that most mayors want more funding and support from the federal government to deal with violent crime, but they don't want the deployment of the National Guard. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor joins us to discuss. And, American soybean farmers in the heartland aren't happy about the Trump administration's promise to bail out Argentina's economy. Wailin Wong, co-host of The Indicator from Planet Money, joins us.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

This week, we're sharing a special live episode of Proclaim Peace recorded in person at the Compass Gallery on Peacemaking and Discipleship with Jennifer Thomas and Chad Ford.We're also excited to announce the first-ever Waymakers conference, REPAIR, is taking place October 23–25 in Provo, Utah. This is such an incredible opportunity to learn from world-class peacemakers leading intensive workshops to help us navigate the most challenging situations in our lives. If you feel frustrated or hopeless about a conflict in your life, bring it to REPAIR. This year we're featuring a keynote from Jim Ferrell as well as a series of intimate workshops from The One America Movement, Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, Patrick Mason, Melisson Mason, Thomas McConkie, LaShawn Williams, and many more.And if you missed Restore this year, we've got you covered. You can purchase the full general session recordings to hear your favorite speakers anytime at faithmatters.org/restore. If you purchased a ticket to Restore (of any kind) the recordings are included—we'll send them to you as soon as they're edited and ready. 

This week, we're sharing a special live episode of Proclaim Peace recorded in person at the Compass Gallery on Peacemaking and Discipleship with Jennifer Thomas and Chad Ford.We're also excited to announce the first-ever Waymakers conference, REPAIR, is taking place October 23–25 in Provo, Utah. This is such an incredible opportunity to learn from world-class peacemakers leading intensive workshops to help us navigate the most challenging situations in our lives. If you feel frustrated or hopeless about a conflict in your life, bring it to REPAIR. This year we're featuring a keynote from Jim Ferrell as well as a series of intimate workshops from The One America Movement, Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, Patrick Mason, Melisson Mason, Thomas McConkie, LaShawn Williams, and many more.And if you missed Restore this year, we've got you covered. You can purchase the full general session recordings to hear your favorite speakers anytime at faithmatters.org/restore. If you purchased a ticket to Restore (of any kind) the recordings are included—we'll send them to you as soon as they're edited and ready. 

Tolkien's most ancient tale meets its sharpest lessons: Ulmo's call to Tuor, Turgon's fatal stubbornness, Maeglin's betrayal, Idril's foresight, and Glorfindel's stand. With Thomas Salerno, Jeff Haecker, Patrick Mason & Rob Leonardi. Was Gondolin doomed—or chosen? The post The Fall of Gondolin appeared first on StarQuest Media.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.