
Hank Smith Ep. 427 and  474
Listen to the Little Lessons podcast
McKay Coppins Eo, 384
President M. Russell Ballard passes
Photo of the Ballard’s headstone
President Ballard funeral plans
5 of the sweet stories from President Ballard’s ministry
Check out the Facebook discussion
How will a new apostle be chosen?
Mesa Temple Christmas lights 2023
Jesus the Christ: Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant
Young Service Missionaries to be integrated into teaching missions
Mum of 16 children changes 9 of their names
Check out the Brigham Young Journals
BYU Women’s Soccer team ranked No. 1
 3 BYU Women’s Cross Country team competing this Saturday
Growth and momentum of the Church Education System
Church donates $1 Million to hurricane relief in Acapulco
Church joins Muslim communities in peace-building in West Africa
Do you want to join a book club? contact us here!

 
 
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743 AoN The Passing of Elder Ballard

A place for members and non-members, mormons and non-mormons to discuss ANYTHING to do with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Religion & Spirituality

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Christianity

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Hinduism

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Religion

 
 

 

 

 
Meagan Rainock (PhD, Sociology, Vanderbilt University) is a postdoctoral fellow in a joint
appointment split between the Department of Medicine, Health, and Society at Vanderbilt and
the Department of Behavioral Sciences at Fisk University. As a sociologist, she studies the
identities, obstacles, and experiences of minorities as they navigate social institutions, and has
published work in the areas of religion, education, criminal justice, and mental health. She
currently lives in Nashville with her husband and daughter.
 
Shinji Takagi, a retired economist, continues his research in economics and now also in
Mormon studies. Author or coauthor of nearly 200 publications in economics, he has
more than a dozen publications in Mormon and biblical studies; he currently serves as an
Editorial Advisory Board member of the Mormon Studies Review. His 2016 book, The
Trek East: Mormonism Meets Japan, 1901–1968, received the 2017 Best International
Book Award from the Mormon History Association. Since 2020, he has been dividing his
time between Ashburn, Va., a suburb of Washington, D.C. where he held his last full-time
job, and Fukuoka, Japan, to look after his 96-year-old mother.
The post 816 Unique But Not Different appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

816 Unique But Not Different


Temple Dedications

Puebla Mexico Temple – #191, 

Presided by Gerritt Gong on May 19th 
20 stakes and 3 districts assigned to the temple district.

First of 8 temples that will split up the Mexico City Temple district


14th of 25 in Mexico
Dedicatory Prayer 
Reminiscences of temple trips to Mesa Arizona. 


Taylorsville Utah Temple – #192

Presided by Gerritt Gong on June 2nd 
38 Stakes assigned to the temple district. 

Leaves Jordan River with only 30 Stakes 


20th of 30 in Utah, 5th in Salt Lake Valley
Dedicatory Prayer 
Baptistery Modesty glass




Temple Groundbreaking 

Cleveland Ohio Temple

June 1st, presided by Vai Sikahema
Foundation excavation is already underway
Remarks about Kirtland


Teton River Idaho Temple

June 1st, presided by Ricardo Giménez 
Remarks about the harsh winter that pioneers and residents endure 
Teton Flood engulfed the temple site: “I wonder … if perhaps that flood cleansed this location for a future temple”
Smallest city to have two temples (40K pop.), 9th in Idaho




Temple dedication Announced 

San Pedro Sula Honduras Temple

Dedication: October 13, 2024, presided by Dale Renlund
Open House: September 12th to 28th. 
Same day as Casper Wyoming temple – #198 & 199
Tentatively pushes Salvador Brazil to #200 on Oct. 20th 




Temple Groundbreaking Announced

Ribeirão Preto Brazil Temple

June 22nd, presided by Joni L Koch




Temple Renderings Released

Maceió Brazil Temple

NOT a single-story temple of 19,000 square feet as previously announced
Two story temple of around 25,000 square feet (similar to Teresina). 
Located next to Statue of Liberty replica


Huehuetenango Guatemala Temple

Gleaming white Spanish colonial style
single-story temple 10,787 square feet




Temple Approvals

Lone Mountain Nevada Temple

After a Six hour, standing room only meeting, Las Vegas planning commission approves temple. Will advance city council
Hundreds of Church members showed up in Blue shirts, handed a petition with 10k signatures. Opponents gathered 5k signatures.  


McKinney Texas Temple

The Planning and Zoning Committee votes to recommends city deny permit. City Council will make Final decision.
87% of comments were opposition. Green “Fairview United” T-shirts
 Church representatives and members emphasized religious symbolism and the spire that points to heaven. Insisted it is protected by federal legislation. 
 At least one church member commented that steeple height is not part of religious doctrine. 
The Mayor of McKinney wrote a letter to Farivew to voice support for the temple.
June 4th meeting: church asked for an extension to leave the comment period open for a few months. 

City will delay the vote to August and allow the church to return with a proposal more reasonable in size. 




Bakersfield California Temple

Efforts on hold.




Construction Updates 

Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple

Refurbished Angel Moroni placed on top of the temple on May 14th


Provo Utah Temple

Gone!


Salt Lake Temple

Confirmation that the large Christus statue will be placed in the West Pavilion on the south side of the temple.
Replicas of ordinance spaces will be in the lower level. 
Additional statues will be placed on the grounds in the coming months
Church News Podcast

Working towards a specific date in 2026




Ephraim Utah Temple

Cupula placed on top of the temple


San Diego California Temple

Exterior refurbishments finished 
Temple has been closed for 10 months 


Singapore Temple

Jurong Ward has moved out of the building in preparation for construction
General contractor selected but no groundbreaking announced


Anchorage Alaska Temple

Foundation work on the new temple next to the existing one. 
No groundbreaking necessary 




Apostle Visits 

Elder Christofferson visits Angola, Mozambique, and Madagascar, where temples have been announced.
Elder Cook visits Kiribati.



Brent Robers: construction skills not found on the island, no crane on the island. Church is shipping a crane and modular units to the island.  
The post 815 Temple Ticker “Sanderland” appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

815 Temple Ticker “Sanderland”

Listen to the song
Clair Crosby Version
“For behold, I, God, have suffered these things for all, that they might not suffer if they would repent; But if they would not repent they must suffer even as I; Which suffering caused myself, even God, the greatest of all, to tremble because of pain, and to bleed at every pore, and to suffer both body and spirit—and would that I might not drink the bitter cup, and shrink—Nevertheless, glory be to the Father, and I partook and finished my preparations unto the children of men.” 
Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19
Composer: Melanie F. Hoffman
Year of Composition: 2007
Notable Performances: Clair Ryann Crosby’s rendition at 3 years old, featured on her family’s YouTube channel, The Crosbys, which has garnered around 19 million views. The video can be found here.
Key Line:
“Jesus climbed the hill to the garden still, His steps were heavy and slow.”
Historical Context
Melanie F. Hoffman composed “Gethsemane” in 2007. She and her husband Roger have dedicated over 35 years to writing sacred music, feeling that their compositions are often divinely inspired. The couple is also known for “Consider the Lilies” and their involvement in the “Scripture Scouts” project. 
Melanie Hoffman described the creation of “Gethsemane” as a spontaneous and rapid process, emphasizing its importance in teaching children about Jesus Christ’s life and Atonement​​​​.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Commonality Outside LDS Culture: While “Gethsemane” is deeply rooted in LDS culture, its theme of Christ’s atonement makes it universally relatable to Christians worldwide. However, its widespread recognition outside LDS circles is limited.
Central Theme and Doctrine:

Theme: The hymn focuses on the solemnity and significance of Christ’s atonement in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Doctrine Taught: The Atonement of Jesus Christ, a central tenet of LDS belief, highlighting His suffering and sacrifice.

Fulfillment of Church’s Criteria for Hymn Selection:

Increase faith in and worship of Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ: The hymn directly addresses Christ’s suffering and sacrifice, enhancing worship and reflection on His atonement.
Teach core doctrine with power and clarity: It clearly teaches the doctrine of the Atonement, making it accessible to children and adults alike.
Invite joyful singing at home and at church: The melody and message encourage personal and communal singing, particularly during Easter.
Comfort the weary and inspire people to endure in faith: By focusing on Christ’s sacrifice, it offers comfort and motivation to those facing challenges.
Unify Latter-day Saints and others throughout the world: Its message of Christ’s universal atonement can unify believers in their shared faith.

Inclusion Rationale
Speculative Inclusion Reason:

Why It Might Be Included Now: Given its profound message and popularity, especially among children, “Gethsemane” could be included to enhance the hymnbook’s focus on core doctrines like the Atonement and to provide a hymn that resonates deeply during Easter and other times of reflection on Christ’s sacrifice.

Impact and Reception
Initial Reactions:
The hymn has been positively received within the LDS community, particularly highlighted by the viral video featuring Clair Ryann Crosby. This performance has significantly amplified the hymn’s reach and impact, making it a beloved piece, especially among families and children.
Potential Impact on Worship:
Its inclusion in worship services can deepen the congregation’s reflection on the Atonement, particularly during the Easter season. It also provides an accessible way for children to understand and appreciate this fundamental doctrine.
Additional Notes
Interesting Facts:

The Hoffmans often feel their music is divinely inspired, a sentiment that resonates with many of their listeners.
The hymn “Gethsemane” was composed spontaneously and quickly, a process Melanie Hoffman describes as almost effortless, underscoring its spiritual significance​​​​.

Multimedia Elements:

Video: Clair Ryann Crosby’s performance on The Crosbys’ YouTube channel has approximately 19 million views, showcasing the hymn’s emotional and spiritual impact.

This comprehensive look at “Gethsemane” provides insight into its background, significance, and reception, making it a valuable addition to the LDS hymnbook.
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814 Hear Hymn “Gethsemane” Hymn 1009



Elder Gong dedicates Taylorsville temple
13 new hymns available in Gospel Music app
Chad Daybell sentenced
Fertility doctor sued for using his own sperm
Missionary charged with 3 felonies
Elizabeth Smart, 20 years later
Pick up “My Story” by Elizabeth Smart and Chris Stewart
See BYU’s interactive Lego exhibit
CES announces Religious Educators Conference
LDS parents wonder if early morning seminary is work the health costs
Utah is the most religious state according to new study
Church creates Utah’s first Spanish language stake
Over half of Mormons in Arizona have a negative view of Trump
Multiple weekend crashes caused by Mormon Cricket Sludge
Video of crickets and snowplows
More bug videos



The post 813 AoN Mormon Cricket Sludge appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

813 AoN Mormon Cricket Sludge

Listen to the Hymn
“And behold, there shall a new star arise, such an one as ye never have beheld; and this also shall be a sign unto you. And behold this is not all, there shall be many signs and wonders in heaven. And it shall come to pass that ye shall all be amazed, and wonder, insomuch that ye shall fall to the earth.”
Helaman 14:5–7
 
Composer: Lorin Farrar Wheelwright
Year of Composition: 1959
Key Lines: “The heavens with light o’erflowing A story of love will tell.  A new star will shine in glory When Jesus comes on earth to dwell.”
Historical Context:

Composer’s Background: Lorin Farrar Wheelwright, born on December 20, 1909, was a distinguished musician, educator, and publisher. He studied at the McCune School and the University of Utah, earning advanced degrees from the University of Chicago and Columbia University. His contributions to LDS music are substantial, including founding Pioneer Music Press. He served on the Sunday School general board and as an associate editor for The Instructor magazine. He passed away on November 4, 1987.
Lorin Farrar Wheelwright wrote several hymns and songs for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including:


“O Love That Glorifies the Son” (#295)
“Help Me Teach With Inspiration” (#281)
“Oh, May My Soul Commune with Thee” (#123)
“Come, All Ye Saints and Sing His Praise” (included in previous Church hymnals)
“Mother, I Love You” (included in the Primary Children’s Songbook)

Cultural and Religious Significance
Commonality Outside LDS Culture:
“Starbright” is primarily known within the LDS community and is not commonly found outside this culture.
Central Theme and Doctrine:
The hymn focuses on the anticipation of the signs of Christ’s birth from the perspective of Book of Mormon believers, teaching faith in prophetic signs and the joy of Christ’s coming.
Hymn Selection Criteria:

Increase faith in and worship of Heavenly Father and His Son Jesus Christ: The hymn reflects the faith of believers awaiting Christ’s birth, reinforcing the importance of prophetic fulfillment and divine guidance.
Teach core doctrine with power and clarity: It emphasizes the doctrine of Christ’s birth and the signs that heralded this event as recorded in the Book of Mormon.
Invite joyful singing at home and at church: Its simple, evocative melody and hopeful lyrics make it suitable for children’s singing both in worship services and at home.
Comfort the weary and inspire people to endure in faith: The hymn provides comfort by recounting the fulfillment of divine promises, encouraging endurance and faith.
Unify Latter-day Saints and others throughout the world: By focusing on a unique Book of Mormon narrative, it strengthens a shared identity and belief among LDS members.

Inclusion Rationale
Why It’s Now Included:

Unique Focus: “Starbrite” enriches the hymnbook by introducing a perspective from the Book of Mormon, offering a fresh narrative not extensively covered by other hymns.
Cultural Enrichment: It adds to the diversity of hymn narratives, particularly those aimed at children, enhancing the teaching of Book of Mormon stories through music.

Impact and Reception
Initial Reactions:
The inclusion of “Starbrite” is likely to be well-received due to its child-friendly focus and the emotional connection it fosters with the Book of Mormon stories.
Potential Impact:

Worship Services: The hymn can be used in Primary programs and Christmas celebrations, providing a joyful and anticipatory atmosphere.
Personal Study: Families and individuals may find it a valuable addition to their musical repertoire, particularly for teaching children about the Book of Mormon.

Additional Notes
Interesting Facts:

Composer’s Influence: Lorin F. Wheelwright’s multifaceted contributions to music, education, and publishing within the LDS community highlight his importance as a cultural figure.
Historical Accuracy: All information provided is verified through historical records and publications related to Wheelwright’s life and works​​​​.

The post 812 Hear Hymn “Starbright” Hymn 1204 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

743 AoN The Passing of Elder Ballard

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