For All The Saints With Ben Hancock

For the General Conference weekend of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-day Saints, I wanted to revisit one of my favourite moments when David Snell, host of the Keystone podcast and longtime creator on Saints Unscripted joined me on the show. 

We have a nostalgic "draft pick" of our top five all-time General Conference moments and top five General Conference talks. From unscripted pulpit humor to soul-stirring apostolic testimonies, we break down the addresses and historic occurrences that have deeply shaped our discipleship, missions, and personal faith.

We explore the profound spiritual gravity of General Conference, the humanity and warmth of prophets and apostles when they step away from the teleprompter, and the enduring power of classic sermons that continue to anchor Latter-day Saints across generations.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• Unscripted Pulpit Moments: Reliving classic, humanizing conference memories, including President Henry B. Eyring’s impromptu story about his tough neighborhood, President Gordon B. Hinckley cracking up over the West Indies bricklayer letter, and President Thomas S. Monson famously wiggling his ears.
  
  
• The Historic Announcements: Looking back on the monumental shifts in church culture and ministry, from President Monson’s 2012 announcement lowering missionary eligibility ages to President Russell M. Nelson’s 2018 transition to the two-hour Sunday meeting block.
  
  
• Tender Demonstrations of Christlike Love: Ben reflects on the unforgettable moment in October 2007 when then-Elder Russell M. Nelson stepped forward to steady and support a frail, trembling Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin at the pulpit, alongside personal reflections on sustaining solemn assemblies.
  
  
• The Currant Bush and Divine Refinement: David highlights Elder D. Todd Christofferson’s masterclass on divine correction and Hugh B. Brown’s currant bush allegory, discussing how trials and spiritual pruning prepare us for greater growth.
  
  
• Safety for the Soul: Both Ben and David align on Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s powerhouse October 2009 defense of the Book of Mormon, reflecting on why the text remains an inescapable spiritual hurdle that anchors testimonies in times of doubt.
  
  
• The Purifying Power of Gethsemane: Ben shares why Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s final apostolic testimony in April 1985 stands as the pinnacle of General Conference addresses, delivered just days before his passing.

Book Referenced in This Episode:

A Marvelous Work and a Wonder by Elder LeGrand Richards:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1279168.A_Marvelous_Work_and_a_Wonder

Connect with David Snell & Keystone:

• YouTube: @keystonelds
  
  
• Website: https://keystonelds.com
  
  
• Instagram: @keystonelds
  
  
• Watch David on Saints Unscripted: YouTube @SaintsUnscripted
  
  Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
  www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
  https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/
  
  For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
  https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2
  
  https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
  If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram
  
  Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

Acclaimed musicologist, composer, and author Dr. Michael Hicks served on the BYU faculty for 35 years, retiring as Professor Emeritus of Music. In our conversation, we delve into the rich and often surprising history of Latter-day Saint hymnody, looking at everything from the earliest frontier gatherings to the forthcoming global hymnbook.

Michael shares how early Saints truly experienced music in their worship, shedding light on the untold stories behind iconic hymns, the shifts across different church hymnals, and the musical tastes of church leaders. We also dive into the oral practice of “lining out” hymns, the stark divide between Emma Smith’s personal, grace-centered hymn selections and the Apostles’ second-coming anthems, and the peculiar tale of how President Spencer W. Kimball’s personal record collection made its way across the Atlantic.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• The Lost Art of “Lining Out”: How early Latter-day Saints sang without hymnals or printed musical notation, relying on an oral, line-by-line call-and-response tradition that mirrors modern campfires and concerts.
  
  
• Emma Smith vs. The British Apostles: The dramatic divergence in early LDS hymnody—how Emma Smith favored deeply personal hymns centered on grace, individual redemption, and grief (including "Amazing Grace"), while the Apostles in Manchester compiled bold, millenarian songs of triumph and Zion.
  
  
• Joseph Smith's Real Musical Favorites: Debunking the popular myth that "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief" was Joseph Smith’s personal favorite song, and revealing why four out of his five most requested tunes were melancholy soldier ballads about the grief and regret of war.
  
  
• Gospel Hymnody & "Pub Songs": How 19th-century revivalist music, jaunty 3:1 rhythms, and slow harmonic changes reshaped Latter-day Saint worship—and why British and Welsh members initially dismissed these upbeat tunes as mere "pub songs."
  
  
• The "Alleged" New Hymnbook: Michael's insider perspective on the monumental process of revising the Church's hymnbook, the tension between British Anglican choral aspirations and eclectic multilingual expansion, and what really happens behind closed doors when committee selections are presented to the Quorum of the Twelve.
  
  
• President Kimball’s Secret Record Collection: The funny and heartwarming story of how Michael acquired Spencer W. Kimball's personal vinyl and 78 RPM record collection—complete with the prophet's red-inked initials over his son's name—and ended up handwriting a certificate of authenticity on a fast-food receipt for two shocked British shoppers at Deseret Industries.

Resources Mentioned:

• Website:
Visit Michael Hicks’ official site for his full catalogue of music, articles, and scholarly work:

https://michaelhicks.org

• Book (Print/eBook):
"Spencer Kimball's Record Collection: Essays on Mormon Music" by Michael Hicks (Signature Books):

https://www.signaturebooks.com/books/p/spencer-kimballs-record-collection

• Audiobook:
"Spencer Kimball's Record Collection" (Audible Edition, narrated by Michael Hicks):

https://www.audible.com/pd/Spencer-Kimballs-Record-Collection-Audiobook/B08N6WX14P

• Scholarly Article:
"What Hymns Early Mormons Sang and How They Sang Them" by Michael Hicks (BYU Studies):

https://byustudies.byu.edu/article/what-hymns-early-mormons-sang-and-how-they-sang-them

Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/

For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram

Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

In this episode, I sit down with JD Payne, the co-creator, writer, executive producer, and showrunner behind Amazon Prime Video’s The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. Alongside his longtime writing partner Patrick McKay, JD is tasked with one of the largest creative undertakings in television history: translating J.R.R. Tolkien’s Second Age of Middle-earth into a sprawling multi-season production involving thousands of artists and technicians across every facet of filmmaking.

Yet behind the scale of that production is an individual who approaches his work with genuine perspective and quiet intent. Navigating the relentless pressures of the industry, JD views his time and creative output through the principle of consecration—seeking to balance demanding professional responsibilities with family life, active church service, and devoted discipleship as a Latter-day Saint.

We discuss the spiritual foundations embedded within Tolkien’s legendarium, the unique power of parables and indirect storytelling, and the creative discipline of focusing on the process while learning to surrender the outcome.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• The Five Ps of Showrunning: JD breaks down the immense, all-encompassing responsibility of helming an epic production through penning, prepping, producing, posting, and publicizing—overseeing the vision from initial script to public release.
  
  
• The "Luke Skywalker" Moment: The high-stakes journey of pitching against dozens of Hollywood’s elite writing teams, followed by the surreal moment on a Los Angeles rooftop after receiving the life-altering call from Amazon.
  
  
• The Consecration of Time: Establishing spiritual non-negotiables—from scripture study and strict Sabbath observance during grueling undergraduate days at Yale, to accepting an early-morning seminary calling in New Zealand right on the eve of filming and the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  
• Tolkien, Faith, and the Language of Longing: Dissecting Tolkien’s Letter 142 on Middle-earth as a fundamentally religious work, and exploring how themes of the Fall, fading beauty, and immortal longing create a universal spiritual vocabulary.
  
  
• Light Versus Darkness: A behind-the-scenes look at the climax between Celebrimbor and Galadriel in Season 2, highlighting the vital truth that darkness is never conquered by force or muscle, but by light.
  
  
• Process Over Outcome: Contrasting faithful stewardship with the cautionary tale of Laman and Lemuel, JD shares how letting go of rigid expectations allows God to grant far more than we ever could have planned.
  
  

Books & Works Referenced in This Episode:

• The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien (Edited by Humphrey Carpenter & Christopher Tolkien)
  Letter 142 to Father Robert Murray:
  https://www.tolkienguide.com/guide/letters/L142
  
  
• The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
  https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-lord-of-the-rings-j-r-r-tolkien
  
  
• The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
  https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-screwtape-letters-c-s-lewis
  
  
• The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
  https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-great-divorce-c-s-lewis
  
  
• The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ
  https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/bofm
  
  

JD Payne & His Work:

• Amazon MGM Studios — JD Payne Profile:
  https://press.amazonmgmstudios.com/us/en/cast/jd-payne/1272
• The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power on Prime Video:
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QH8NMS1
  
  

Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/

For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram

Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

This week I speak with a returning guest, Dr. Justin Coulson, one of Australia’s leading parenting experts, co-host of Channel 9’s Parental Guidance, and host of the Happy Families podcast. We discuss his latest book, Boys: Building Strong Young Men from the Inside Out, and dive into why the modern conversation surrounding boys and young men is missing the mark. Rather than treating boys as a societal problem to be managed, Justin shares how parents and youth leaders can help them build character, cultivate internal motivation, and step into an aspirational vision of healthy masculinity.

We explore the psychology of why young people do what they do, how to move beyond shallow compliance and coercion, and what it truly takes to create environments where our youth feel connected, capable, and empowered to live the gospel.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• Redefining Healthy Masculinity: Justin shares an empowering definition of masculinity inspired by Richard Reeves: a healthy man is one who helps the people around him feel and be safer and stronger. We explore how this vision aligns with the Aaronic Priesthood theme to ground young men in their divine identity and purpose.
• The Continuum of Motivation: A breakdown of the five levels of motivation—from the shallow "kiddie pool" of external carrots and sticks, to duty-bound introjection, and into the deep waters of integrated and intrinsic conversion where youth live the gospel because they truly value and love it.
• The Three Basic Psychological Needs: How leaders and parents can prevent church dropout by nurturing relatedness (connection and belonging), competence (feeling capable and worthy), and autonomy (acting by persuasion rather than coercion).
• Grace Over Surveillance: A moving account of how a wise bishop transformed a potential church standard confrontation into a powerful moment of unconditional love and inclusion.
• The "Chair Stackers" and Real Role Models: Why young men need to see living examples of service, compassion, and discipleship in action, and how pointing our youth toward Christ provides the ultimate model of what a man should be.

About Dr. Justin Coulson

Dr. Justin Coulson is one of Australia’s most trusted parenting authors, keynote speakers, and media commentators. He holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Wollongong and is the co-host of Channel 9’s hit television program Parental Guidance. Alongside his wife Kylie, he hosts the Happy Families podcast—Australia’s leading family and parenting show. Justin is the author of multiple bestselling books on parenting and family life, including Miss-Connection, 21 Days to a Happier Family, and The Parenting Revolution. He and Kylie are the parents of six daughters and live in Australia.

Connect with Dr. Justin Coulson & Discover His Work:

• Book: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/boys-justin-coulson
• Website: https://happyfamilies.com.au/
• Podcast: https://happyfamilies.com.au/podcast
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjustincoulson
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@happyfamiliesau
  
  Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
  www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
  https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/
  
  For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
  https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2
  
  https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
  If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram
  
  Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

I speak with Mahjolee Kershaw in this week’s episode who shares her deeply moving and vulnerable journey through severe health crises, losing her faith as a teenager, and finding her way back to Jesus Christ. After grappling with severe depression, an undiagnosed autoimmune disease, and feelings of isolation, Mahjolee experienced a powerful turning point that helped her realize God's intimate love for each of His children.

We explore the difficult question of why a loving God allows suffering, how to overcome the fear and anxiety of returning to church after a period away, and the profound connection between secular science, mental wellness, and spiritual healing.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• Falling Away in Plain Sight: Mahjolee opens up about serving in youth presidencies and attending church for show while internally feeling disconnected from God, navigating an eating disorder, and battling severe depression and suicidality.
  
  
• The Turning Point in Crisis: The harrowing medical emergency that landed Mahjolee in the hospital, leading to an autoimmune diagnosis and the realization that God had granted her a second chance at life.
  
  
• Returning to Church and Overcoming Fear: Practical advice on how to step back into a congregation when feeling insecure, alongside guidance for active members on showing Christlike love without overwhelming those who return.
  
  
• Finding Purpose in Pain: How a simple Sunday School lesson reshaped Mahjolee's understanding of suffering—recognizing that while God doesn't cause our trials, He can transform our deepest pain into purpose to help others.
  
  
• The Science of the Atonement: How studying psychology, neuroscience, and human physiology reinforced Mahjolee’s testimony of Jesus Christ, including medical insights into the physical and emotional agony of a broken heart.
  
  Life Help and Resources:
• https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/life-help/suicide?lang=eng
  
  

Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/

For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram

Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

In this week's episode, I speak with Dr. James Holt, Associate Professor of Religious Education at the University of Chester in England and author of On Holy Ground: Inter-faith Encounters and the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. I wanted to chat with him about how Latter-day Saints can hold unapologetic convictions in the Restored Gospel while simultaneously recognizing and celebrating God’s active hand in other world religions. Drawing on decades of classroom teaching, interfaith leadership, and scholarly research, Dr. Holt shares how genuine, respectful dialogue can transform our understanding of God’s children without compromising our own faith.

We explore the theological foundations of interfaith work, the beauty of "holy envy," and practical ways we can move past mere tolerance toward deep, loving, and Christlike relationships in our everyday communities.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• God at Work Across Faiths: Dr. Holt examines the 1978 First Presidency statement regarding God’s light in moral leaders and philosophers throughout history, unpacking why recognizing divine truth across all religions is essential to understanding the full depth of Christ’s grace.
• Moving Beyond the "Fortress Church": Addressing Patrick Mason’s concept of the fortress church, Dr. Holt explains why Latter-day Saints cannot fulfill the call to be the "salt of the earth" if they isolate themselves in cultural echo chambers rather than engaging meaningfully with their neighbors.
• The Power of "Holy Envy": Reflections on learning from other traditions, including the Sikh principle of seva (selfless service without expectation of reward), Pope Francis’s inclusive ministry in Catholicism, and the transformative focus of Buddhist mindfulness in our daily discipleship.
• Engaging Without Contention: Practical advice on how to handle difficult or patronizing interfaith encounters by choosing understanding over "winning," avoiding defensive "Bible bashes," and adopting Martin Buber's "I-Thou" framework to view others as fellow children of God rather than objects or potential converts.
• Everyday Steps for Interfaith Connection: Simple, actionable ways to start building bridges this week—from offering a warm, supportive presence to neighbors of minority faiths to asking thoughtful questions about upcoming religious holidays and traditions.

Books Referenced in This Episode:

• On Holy Ground: Inter-faith Encounters and the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ by James Holt
  https://www.cedarfort.com/products/on-holy-ground
  
  
• Understanding Sikhism: A Guide for Teachers by James D. Holt
  https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/understanding-sikhism-9781350263161/
  
  
• Understanding Buddhism: A Guide for Teachers by James D. Holt
  https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/understanding-buddhism-9781350330245/
  
  
• Towards a Latter-day Saint Theology of Religions by James Holt
  https://jamesdholt.com/books/
  
  

Connect with Dr. James Holt:

• Website: https://jamesdholt.com
• Social Media (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook): @drjamesdholt

Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/

For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram

Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

Friend, musician, and church music enthusiast Connor Duncanson returns to the show to discuss the ongoing releases of Hymns for Home and Church, the new global hymnbook for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Together, we share our personal top five selections and examine the theological depth, emotional resonance, and musical craftsmanship behind both new Latter-day Saint compositions and cherished cross-denominational classics. We also discuss how hymns enrich personal and congregational worship, the remarkable history behind timeless songs of praise and suffering, and how music serves as a prayer of the heart that anchors disciples of Jesus Christ through life’s deepest trials.

Some highlights from this episode include:

• Expectations vs. Reality in the New Hymnbook: Connor and Ben reflect on the creative breadth of Hymns for Home and Church, discussing the balance between fresh member-written compositions and historic Christian hymns.
  
  
• Easter Anthems and Triumphant Praise: Unpacking the regal majesty of "Let Easter Anthems Ring" (set to Diademata) and Charles Wesley's soaring Ascension hymn "Hail the Day That Sees Him Rise."
  
  
• Faith in the Midst of Suffering: The poignant historical background behind Horatio Spafford's "It Is Well with My Soul" and Civilla D. Martin's "His Eye Is on the Sparrow," demonstrating how genuine faith is forged within adversity rather than in the absence of it.
  
  
• Modern Latter-day Saint Sacrament Hymns: Analysing the reverent doctrinal focus of Annette Dickman's "Bread of Life, Living Water" and its symbolic invitation to lay our whole souls upon the altar.
  
  
• The Transcendent Power of Traditional Hymns: Exploring Isaac Watts' profound poetry in "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" and "My Shepherd Will Supply My Need," alongside the enduring soul-stirring message of "Great Is Thy Faithfulness."
  
  
• Wishlist Hymns for Future Batches: A lively discussion on traditional Anglican and Christian staples we hope to see in upcoming digital releases, including "Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven" and "Be Thou My Vision."

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Explore the New Hymnbook (Hymns for Home and Church):
  • Official Collection & Sheet Music: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/media/music/collections/hymns-for-home-and-church?lang=eng
    
    
  • Study in the Gospel Library: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/music/hymns-for-home-and-church?lang=eng
    
    
  • About the Global Sacred Music Initiative: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/initiative/new-hymns?lang=eng
    
    

Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/

For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram

Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

Brent Top, author, educator, and former mission president, joins me this week to talk about his deeply personal book, When You Can't Do It Alone: Take the Savior's Hand. 

I wanted to chat with him about his candid journey navigating severe anxiety, depression, and panic attacks while serving in church leadership roles, and how those trials reshaped his understanding of grace, vulnerability, and the enabling power of Jesus Christ.

We explore breaking cultural stigmas surrounding mental health within faith communities, the dangers of perfectionism, what it truly means to allow the Saviour's Atonement to heal us daily beyond checklist discipleship, and how a transformative encounter with Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught Brent the life-changing power of extending mercy.

Highlights from this episode include:

Vulnerability as Strength: Brent discusses why sharing our mortal weaknesses creates authentic connections, drawing on Elder Neal A. Maxwell's insight that trials allow us to testify of the Savior with genuine authenticity.

The True Meaning of Succour: A look at the linguistic roots of "succour" as running alongside someone to cheer them on, illustrated through a vivid mountain bike race metaphor.

Breaking the Mental Health Stigma: Reflecting on the turning point of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland's open discussions on mental health and how it gave members permission to seek help without shame or guilt.

Presidency and Panic Attacks: Brent opens up about the overwhelming weight of perfectionism during his time as a mission president in Illinois, the onset of severe panic attacks, and how medication, counseling, and spiritual refocusing helped him through.

Five Practical Principles for Relief: A breakdown of key daily practices from Brent's book: thinking on Christ, thanking Him, serving Him, and holding fast to His promises.

"Allowing" the Atonement: Moving away from a mechanical approach to grace and exploring what Peter walking on the water teaches us about reaching out, getting out of the boat, and allowing the Saviour to lift us.

Extending Mercy in the Temple: The powerful moment in the Winter Quarters Temple with Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf that transformed Brent's leadership approach and taught him the life-changing impact of extending mercy to others.

About Brent L. Top
Brent L. Top is an author, professor, and religious educator. He served as the Dean of Religious Education at Brigham Young University, where he taught for many years. Throughout his church service, he has served in numerous callings, including as a bishop, counselor in a stake presidency, and as president of the Illinois Peoria Mission. He is the author of numerous books and articles focusing on Latter-day Saint doctrine, Church history, and spiritual well-being.

Links to Brent's Book and Work:

When You Can't Do It Alone: Take the Savior's Hand on Deseret Book: https://www.deseretbook.com/product/5101539.html

Book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/00ptMsPw

Brent L. Top Author Page at Deseret Book: https://www.deseretbook.com/search/?q=Brent%20L.%20Top&start=0&sz=48&page=1 

BYU Religious Studies Center Publications by Brent L. Top: [https://rsc.byu.edu/author/top-brent-l]

Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/

For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram

Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

In this episode of For All The Saints, I sit down with Martin Turvey, a former Area Seventy in the Europe Area, former England Leeds Mission President, and long-time Church leader. I wanted to chat with him about his five-year tenure as an Area Seventy and get an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to serve in high-level leadership across the UK, Europe, and beyond. 

From traveling to small districts in Romania and large stakes in Portugal to visiting the island nation of Cape Verde for his first personal window into the African continent, Martin shares profound personal insights on the quiet operations of the priesthood, the heavy weight of stake presidency reorganizations, and the vibrant future of the Church in Britain. 

A tech CEO in the data-quality sector and a second-generation Latter-day Saint, Martin brings a deeply grounded, compassionate perspective on leadership, being a disciple of Jesus Christ, and seeing people through Heavenly Father’s eyes.

We explore the spiritual mechanics behind priesthood callings, the realities of managing a "part-time" assignment that spans across continents, and the powerful, modern fulfillment of apostolic promises regarding the revival of the Church in Europe.

Some highlights from this episode include:

Serving Alongside Elder Patrick Kieran: Martin reflects on his time serving as a counselor to Elder Patrick Kieran when he was a newly called stake president in Bristol. He shares what it was like working with him before he became an Apostle, highlighting Elder Kieran’s extraordinary ability to connect with people and make everyone feel like his best friend.

Behind the Scenes of an Area Seventy: A transparent look at what the calling actually entails—from juggling weekday Zoom meetings and weekend travel across Europe to managing coordinating councils, overseeing service missions, and expanding British Sign Language resources in the Gospel Library.

The Sacred Weight of Reorganizing Stake Presidencies: Martin shares the profound, spiritual process of calling new stake presidencies in areas where he didn't know a single soul, illustrating how the Spirit speaks in completely unanimous and undeniable ways when discerning the Lord’s chosen leaders.

A Quiet Moment with President Nelson & The Birmingham Temple: The incredible, personal story behind the announcement of the Birmingham England Temple. Martin recounts a powerful spiritual impression about growth in Birmingham, followed by a surprise lunchtime conversation where President Nelson whispered the upcoming temple announcement to him days before General Conference.

Life After the Calling: A candid conversation on what it feels like to transition out of such an intense, multi-year leadership responsibility, balancing family life, and adjusting to the sudden quiet of open weekend calendars.

The Divine Future of the Church in the UK & Europe: Addressing the common "persecution complex" or minority mindset members can fall into, Martin echoes apostolic promises from Elder Holland and President Nelson, sharing why he firmly believes the best days of the Church in Britain and wider Europe are right ahead of us.

Articles and Media Links:
Calling Announcement Article (2020): "Martin J Turvey to serve as Area Seventy for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints" 

• https://news-uk.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/martin-j-turvey-to-serve-as-area-seventy-for-the-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints
  
  
• Ensign Local Pages Link: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/2020/06/eur-eng-local-pages/local-news-002?lang=eng

General Conference Sustaining (April 2020): "Sustaining of General Authorities, Area Seventies, and General Officers".

• https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/04/21oaks?lang=eng

Area Leadership Message (October 2025): "Charity, the Pure Love of Christ" by Elder Martin J. Turvey.

• https://uk.churchofjesuschrist.org/charity-the-pure-love-of-christ
  
  

For further Information of serving in Prison Ministry as a member of the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-day Saints see the link:

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/prison-ministry/general-principles/1-1-introduction?lang=eng

Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
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For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram

Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.

In this week's episode, I sat down with the absolutely brilliant London-based author, poet, and songwriter Joshua Luke Smith to discuss his new book, This Is The Main Event: Finding Contentment in the Life You Have. I wanted to chat with Joshua about how we can anchor ourselves in the present moment, overcome the spiritual numbness of modern life, and reconnect with the quiet presence of God in our everyday experiences.

From performing on massive stages to running poetry workshops in UK prisons, Joshua shares how leaning into our humanity, embracing our pain through lament, and paying attention to the "ordinary" moments around us can transform our relationship with God and help us realize that the life we long for is already hidden right in front of us.

Highlights from this episode include:

• This Is The Main Event: Joshua breaks down the inspiration behind his new book, sharing how a family mantra turned into a practical, four-stage journey (Invitation, Lamentation, Consecration, and Adoration) toward finding true contentment.
  
  
• The Speed of Love: Exploring the power of slowing down in a fast-paced world. Josh shares simple, intentional habits, from walking slowly to carving out 4 minutes and 44 seconds of daily silence, to hear the actual "sound of your soul."
  
  
• The True Myth & The Power of Story: A deep conversation on why modern culture is hungering for narrative again. We discuss how the Gospel serves as the "true myth" that anchors our isolated, individual lives into something transcendent and shared.
  
  
• Form Finds the Feeling in UK Prisons: Joshua reflects on his work facilitating poetry workshops with offenders. He shares moving stories of how using structure and the Psalms helps men excavate their souls, name their grief, and discover deep repentance.
  
  
• A Closing Blessing: Joshua finishes the episode by sharing a powerful, spoken-word blessing straight from his book to remind us that grace can make broken things repairable.

More About Joshua Luke Smith:
Joshua is a community builder and podcaster, as well as a poet, author, and songwriter. He’s the founder of Orphan No More, a record label and creative community, and The Psalmists, a charity supporting the lives of offenders through creative expression. He’s been featured in Complex Magazine, BBC 1XTRA, BBC 6 Music, Premier Radio, UCB Radio, Wordplay, and many other outlets. Joshua has given a TEDx Talk, tours extensively, and speaks internationally on the subjects of spiritual formation and creativity.

Connect with Joshua:

• Book: This Is The Main Event: Finding Contentment in the Life You Have
  • Amazon UK Link
    https://www.amazon.co.uk/This-Main-Event-Discovering-Life/dp/191176408X?tag=linkfiregen&ie=UTF8&linkCode=as2&ascsubtag=586b4e59694a42e2717b560ef1bab802&ref=dmm_acq_soc_gb_u_lfire_lp_x_586b4e59694a42e2717b560ef1bab802
    
    
  • HarperCollins Link
    https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/this-is-the-main-event
    
    
• Website & Socials: joshualukesmith.com | @JoshuaLukeSmith
  
  Follow For All The Saints on social media for updates and inspiring content:
  www.instagram.com/forallthesaintspod
  https://www.facebook.com/forallthesaintspod/
  
  For All The Saints episodes are released every Monday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVDUQg_qZIU&list=UULFFf7vzrJ2LNWmp1Kl-c6K9Q
  https://open.spotify.com/show/3j64txm9qbGVVZOM48P4HS?si=bb31d048e05141f2
  
  https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/for-all-the-saints/id1703815271
  If you have feedback or any suggestions for topics or guests, connect with Ben & Sean via [email protected] or DM on Instagram
  
  Conversations to Refresh Your Faith.