Podcast Summary: followHIM: A Come, Follow Me Podcast
Episode: Moroni 1-6 Part 2 • Dr. Shalise Adams Moroni
Release Date: November 27, 2024
Hosts: Hank Smith & John Bytheway
Guest: Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni
Introduction
In the second part of their deep dive into Moroni chapters 1 through 6, hosts Hank Smith and John Bytheway invite Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni to explore the profound teachings and applications of these scriptures. Joined by Shalise and Elise, the episode offers an engaging discussion enriched with personal anecdotes, expert insights, and heartfelt testimonies.
Encouraging Personal Scripture Study
Shalise:
At the outset, Shalise emphasizes the importance of personal scripture study, particularly focusing on Moroni 4:3 and Moroni 5:2. She shares a touching moment where her daughter, Madeline, enthusiastically takes on the responsibility of reading a verse, highlighting the joy and personal connection that comes from reading scriptures aloud within the family setting.
“I remember once my daughter Madeline, we were reading through as a family... I've always wanted to do that. Big smile on her face.” [00:07]
Elise:
Elise echoes this sentiment, pointing out the unique experience of hearing the scriptures in one’s own voice versus another’s, stating,
“There is something special about reading it out loud and hearing it in your own voice.” [01:10]
Shalise's Suggestion:
Shalise suggests personalizing scripture study by changing pronouns from “we” to “me,” fostering a deeper individual connection with the spirit and personal witness.
“I can have His spirit to be with me, that I witness.” [01:31]
Significance of Administering the Sacrament
Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni:
Dr. Chalice reflects on President Gordon B. Hinckley’s poignant statement regarding the sacrament prayer, underscoring its profound responsibility.
“When you as a priest kneel at the sacrament table and offer up the prayer... you place the entire congregation under covenant with the Lord.” [01:51]
She highlights the gravity of young members administering the sacrament, praising their commitment despite their youth.
“We’ve got maybe 15, 16, 17-year-olds placing the entire congregation under covenant. That's impressive.” [02:45]
Community and Church Participation
Shalise and Elise’s Insights:
The discussion transitions to the importance of community within the church. Elise expresses enthusiasm for Moroni 6, appreciating the emphasis on building a supportive church community.
“He talks about how to be a church and how to participate in a community of saints that helps one another.” [03:20]
Elise on Church Meetings:
Elise reads Moroni 6:4, reflecting on the practice of numbering church members not for statistics but to remember and nourish each other spiritually.
“After they had been received unto baptism... they were numbered among the people of the Church of Christ.” [03:43]
She elaborates on the emotional impact of remembering members, sharing a personal experience where recognizing an Elder’s speech led to a deeper connection.
“Their names were taken... so that if we don’t see you, we can find you.” [04:52]
The Role of Love and Support in the Church
Elise:
Elise brings in Elder Hurst’s insights from a recent conference, differentiating between being loved and feeling loved, emphasizing the necessity of making church members feel valued.
“Being loved is not the same as feeling loved.” [05:28]
Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni:
Dr. Chalice shares a touching story about a student named Darcy Hurst, connecting it to the broader theme of personal support within the church community.
“He has to do three things... I give him a friend.” [06:00]
Shalise and Elise on Personal Connections:
The hosts discuss the Savior’s individualized approach to healing in 3 Nephi 17, paralleling it with the church’s mission to support and invite others to join and feel healed.
“Church is about us finding healing for ourselves and then going and getting someone else.” [07:16]
Church as a Supportive Community
Shalise’s Reflection:
Shalise likens the church to a hospital, a place where imperfect people gather to support one another. She references Elder Uchtdorf’s analogy, reinforcing the idea of the church as a healing environment.
“The church is not a place where perfect people gather to say perfect things... but where imperfect people provide encouragement and support.” [08:30]
Elise on the Gospel and Church Synergy:
Elise cites Elder Renlund, describing the church as the necessary vehicle for administering the gospel with divine authority. She admires how the combination of gospel teachings and church organization leads to transformative benefits.
“The gospel is perfect, but a divinely commissioned church is required to preach it...” [08:30]
Covenant Relationships and Mutual Support
Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni:
Dr. Chalice underscores the church handbook’s emphasis on personal connections, recalling a poignant moment where an elder sought help, illustrating the practical application of Moroni 6:5.
“We are going to speak one with another concerning the welfare of our souls.” [17:49]
Shalise and Elise on Mentorship:
The hosts discuss the importance of vulnerability and mentorship within the church, highlighting how open communication can strengthen relationships and support personal growth.
“We have a group of mentors that we are surrounded with... Those that are maybe a little older, raising their families...” [19:02]
Embracing Diversity Within the Church
Elise on Single Adults:
Elise addresses the unique challenges faced by single adults in the church, advocating for inclusivity and personalized support.
“Don’t treat them differently, just involve them.” [26:19]
She shares her personal journey of finding belonging through service, illustrating the transformative power of inclusive callings.
Shalise’s Agreement:
Shalise agrees, emphasizing the need to recognize and respect the diverse circumstances of single members, avoiding assumptions based on marital status.
“Be thoughtful and be kind... Accept people for where they're at.” [28:40]
Universal Church Experience and the Holy Spirit
Elise on Global Unity:
Elise reflects on the universal nature of the church, recounting experiences from various locations that felt like home due to the presence of the Spirit.
“The Spirit is there... because the church is us, the members.” [21:12]
Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni on Conducting Meetings:
Dr. Chalice discusses the importance of allowing the Holy Spirit to guide church meetings, cautioning against disruptions that detract from spiritual focus.
“The Spirit does control the meeting. Watch the presiding authority.” [23:13]
Transformative Power of the Book of Mormon
Elise’s Testimony:
Elise shares her profound appreciation for the Book of Mormon, describing it as a life-changing tool that fosters a deeper connection with Jesus Christ.
“The Book of Mormon... brings me to the Savior and reminds me who I am and where I want to be.” [30:40]
Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni’s Appreciation:
Dr. Chalice adds her admiration for Moroni’s final chapters, praising the resilience and dedication depicted.
“The Book of Mormon starts with one man, Lehi... Moroni’s last lecture is so powerful.” [31:17]
Closing Thoughts and Listener Engagement
The episode concludes with heartfelt reflections on the importance of church participation in finding contentment and salvation in the present life. Elise reiterates President McKay’s message about the church’s role in making life sweeter today, emphasizing the continual opportunity to renew covenants and strengthen relationships with Christ. Dr. Chalice agrees, highlighting the significance of regular sacrament participation in maintaining a covenant relationship with Jesus Christ.
Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni:
“We are honored. We are thrilled to get back to that sacrament table and to have Him give us another chance.” [25:17]
Shalise’s Final Questions:
Shalise prompts further discussion on supporting single adults within the church, leading to actionable advice on inclusion and kindness.
Engagement with Listeners:
The hosts encourage listeners to engage via YouTube comments and social media, fostering a sense of global community among followers.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Shalise: “I remember once my daughter Madeline... I've always wanted to do that.” [00:07]
- Elise: “There is something special about reading it out loud and hearing it in your own voice.” [01:10]
- Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni: “When you as a priest kneel at the sacrament table and offer up the prayer... you place the entire congregation under covenant with the Lord.” [01:51]
- Elise: “Being loved is not the same as feeling loved.” [05:28]
- Shalise: “The church is not a place where perfect people gather to say perfect things...” [08:30]
- Elise: “Don't treat them differently, just involve them.” [26:19]
- Dr. Chalice Adams Moroni: “We are honored. We are thrilled to get back to that sacrament table...” [25:17]
Conclusion
This episode of followHIM: A Come, Follow Me Podcast offers an enriching exploration of Moroni chapters 1-6, emphasizing personal scripture study, the sacred responsibility of administering the sacrament, building a supportive church community, and embracing the diversity of church members. Through heartfelt stories and expert insights, listeners are encouraged to deepen their commitment, foster meaningful relationships, and actively participate in the life and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
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Final Thought:
“Answer what is always found in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ? Turn to Him, follow Him.” [33:18]
This structured and detailed summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, highlighting key discussions, personal insights, and actionable advice, making it accessible and valuable to both regular listeners and newcomers.