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Hosted by Richie T Steadman · EN
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
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817 Second Class Saints with Matt Harris
Jun 20, 202401:17:00Tap to summarizeDr. Matt Harris is a specialist in US history with a particular focus in religion and the law, church and state, American religious history, civil rights, and Mormon Studies. He received a BA and MA in history from Brigham Young University and an MPhil and PhD, also in history, from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He is the author of numerous books and articles, including The Mormon Church and Blacks: A Documentary History (Univ. of Illinois Press, 2015), Thunder on the Right: Ezra Taft Benson in Mormonism and Politics (Univ. of Illinois Press, 2019), “Watchman on the Tower”: Ezra Taft Benson and the Making of the Mormon Right (Univ. of Utah Press, 2019) and (with Newell G. Bringhurst) The Mormon Church and its Gospel Topics Essays: The Scholarly Community Responds (Univ. of Utah Press, 2019). He is currently at work on three book-length manuscripts: “The Long Awaited Day”: Blacks, Mormons, and the Lifting of the Priesthood and Temple Ban, 1945-2018; J. Reuben Clark and the Making of Modern Mormonism (Univ. of Illinois Press); and Hugh B. Brown: Mormonism’s Progressive Apostle (Signature Books). His article “Mormonism’s Problematic Racial Past and the Evolution of the Divine-Curse Doctrine,” published in The John Whitmer Historical Society Journal, won the Vera Jean and J. Talmage Jones Award from the Mormon History Association in 2014. His work has been featured on CSPAN and various social media outlets. Episode 417 Joseph Freeman Jr The post 817 Second Class Saints with Matt Harris appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.
Transcribe →814 Hear Hymn “Gethsemane” Hymn 1009
Jun 6, 2024Tap to summarizeListen 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. The post 814 Hear Hymn “Gethsemane” Hymn 1009 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.
Transcribe →Hear Hymn – Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
May 12, 2024Tap to summarizeThe upcoming release of the new LDS hymnbook is eagerly awaited by congregations worldwide. One of the most anticipated additions is the inclusion of “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” This hymn has a long history in the LDS hymnal tradition, and its return is sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia and reverence among Latter-day Saints. Its timeless melody and profound lyrics have been an integral part of worship for countless individuals and families in the Church. The hymn’s return is a celebration of tradition and a tribute to its enduring spiritual significance. A Hymn of Grace for Those Who Wander “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” is a hymn that resonates deeply within the hearts of many, crossing denominational lines and touching the souls of those who sing and hear it. Its journey through history, its spiritual significance, and the legends surrounding it make for a rich narrative of faith, music, and enduring legacy. “To fall in love with God is the greatest romance; to seek him the greatest adventure; to find him, the greatest human achievement.” — St. Augustine of Hippo The Origins and Evolution “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” is a hymn written by Robert Robinson in 1758 during the 18th-century revivalist movement. Robinson composed this hymn at the age of 22, reflecting his profound understanding of grace and personal devotion. The melody associated with it, called Nettleton, is attributed to John Wyeth’s sacred music repository, which further cemented its place in hymnal tradition. This hymn was not included in the original LDS hymnbook that Emma Smith compiled. However, it has been featured in various Christian hymnals since its creation. Although “Come, Thou Fount” was not included in the 1985 edition of the LDS hymnbook, it remains a much-loved hymn among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and many other Christian denominations. The hymn’s message of divine grace and guidance is universal, embodying themes of redemption, seeking, and the joy of divine love. Cultural and Religious Significance “Come, Thou Fount” is not just a hymn but a journey of faith and acknowledgment of God’s hand in everything. It teaches core doctrines of Christianity with clarity and power, inviting all to partake in the joy of singing and the comfort it brings to the weary. It fulfills the church’s criteria for hymn selection by increasing faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, comforting and inspiring the faithful, and unifying believers worldwide (Tabernacle Choir). Mack Wilberg and The Tabernacle Choir “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” has had a fluctuating history within LDS culture. It has been absent and present in official hymnals. Although it was not included in the 1985 LDS hymnbook, it remained popular in LDS culture through other means, such as performances by the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square and inclusion in various LDS music collections. This ongoing popularity reflects a form of cultural reintroduction outside the official hymnal. Mack Wilberg’s “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” arrangement has become a beloved rendition by The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. It is celebrated for its emotional depth and for enhancing the hymn’s message of divine grace and guidance. Mack Wilberg’s work on this hymn is renowned for creating arrangements that provide a fresh perspective on traditional hymns, making them resonate deeply with Choir members and listeners worldwide. In 2018, the church announced its plans to create a new hymnbook promoting a more unified global hymnal. On April 1st, 2024, it was announced that the hymn “Come, Thou Fount” would be included in this upcoming hymnbook, marking its official reintroduction. Further additions to the new hymnbook will begin rolling out in May 2024, with twelve new hymns added to the LDS Gospel Library. Specifics about its official reintroduction into LDS culture, such as inclusion in official church materials or hymnals, would require up-to-date information on recent hymnal revisions or announcements by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Legends and Stories One of the most touching lines in the hymn is “Here I raise my Ebenezer; hither by thy help I’ve come.” This line is based on a story from the Bible in 1 Samuel 7:12, where Samuel raises a stone as a monument to God’s help and names it Ebenezer, which means “stone of help.” Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Eben-ezer, saying, Hitherto hath the Lord helped us. (1 Samuel 7:12) The hymn celebrates the guidance and assistance provided by God throughout life’s journey. Robert Robinson’s life serves as a testament to the themes of the hymn “Come Thou Fount”. He had experienced different religious beliefs throughout his life, and the line “Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, prone to leave the God I love” speaks to the universal human experience of wandering from faith and the continuous need for divine grace. “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” — Confucius There is a heartwarming legend about Robinson that he often recalled in his later years. While traveling in a stagecoach, he overheard a woman hum his hymn. When he asked her what she thought of it, he was deeply moved and revealed that he was the hymn’s author. He expressed his yearning for the emotions he once experienced and laments, “I would give a thousand worlds, if I had them, to enjoy the feelings I had then.” Although the story cannot be historically verified, it portrays the author’s deep emotional connection to his creation and its profound impact on others. A Hymn to Inspire “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” is a hymn that stands as a testament to the timeless power of hymns to inspire, comfort, and unite people across different cultures and centuries. Its journey from an 18th-century revivalist hymn to a modern-day anthem of grace and guidance underscores the enduring nature of its message, which continues to resonate within the hearts of the faithful worldwide. As this hymn continues to be sung in congregations, homes, and hearts, it reminds us of the divine grace that is the source of every blessing we have and the ever-present help in our wanderings. Whether viewed from a historical, cultural, or personal perspective, “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” remains a cherished hymn of faith, hope, and the quest for divine love that endures through time. Bibliography: “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Accessed April 24, 2024. https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/music/library/hymns/come-thou-fount-of-every-blessing?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss. “Hymn Selection Criteria.” The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. Accessed April 24, 2024. https://www.thetabernaclechoir.org/hymns/how-hymns-are-chosen.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss. “1 Samuel 7:12.” The Holy Bible, King James Version. “Mack Wilberg Biography.” The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. Accessed April 24, 2024. https://www.thetabernaclechoir.org/articles/mack-wilberg-biography.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss. “Church Announces Plans for New Hymnbook and Children’s Songbook.” Newsroom of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, May 20, 2018. Accessed April 24, 2024. https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/church-announces-plans-for-new-hymnbook-and-childrens-songbook?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss. Augustine of Hippo. “St. Augustine Quotes.” Goodreads. Accessed April 24, 2024. https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/3296.Augustine_of_Hippo?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss. Confucius. “Confucius Quotes.” Goodreads. Accessed April 24, 2024. https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/296842.Confucius?utm_so...
Transcribe →***Rebroadcast*** In Memoriam Episode 326 Melissa Inouye
Apr 25, 202400:46:09Tap to summarizeIf you would like to donate to her family with costs associated with her illness and passing, visit their GO FUNDME. With her unique mix of humor and candor, empathy and idealism, Inouye draws upon her academic training in Chinese history and religious studies, her rich cultural heritage, her experiences raising a family in an international setting, her tangle with cancer, and her resilient faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ to unfurl vibrant reflections on the enduring question of what it means to be a Latter-day Saint today. She passed away from cancer on April 23, 2024. Read The Church Newsroom article about her passing. Read the Salt Lake Tribune piece about her dreams for the Church, which she gave five days before her death. Read her obituary. Here are some of her remarkable writings. CROSSINGS is the book she talked about on her visit to The Hall. Click a cover to learn more, or visit her AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE to see them all. *This page contains Amazon affiliate links. The post ***Rebroadcast*** In Memoriam Episode 326 Melissa Inouye appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.
Transcribe →781 Spring ’24 #GenConf Temple Predictions
Mar 22, 202400:59:00Tap to summarizeTemple Open House Begins Manti Utah Temple Media day on March 11th Open House through April 5th (Long lines on the weekends) Because of the Staircases between the ordinance rooms, wheelchairs can’t be accommodated in these rooms. It appears that the temple in Ephraim will primarily serve those patrons Interior Photos New curtains and Film screens with hanging projectors added to the ordinance rooms Cushions added to the old benches Large television screens added to the Terrestrial Room. Rooms Chapel with a 1906 a copy of Benard Plockhorst’s Jesus Blessing the Children – Baby Jesus with a man face Hallway – Isaac Morely framed green apron. Baptistry: Robert Shepard Scenes from Baptism of Jesus, Oliver and Joseph, and the waters of Mormon Dove painted on the ceiling above the font. Scriptural verses from: Matthew 3: 13-15 III Nephi 19:12-14 Pearl of Great Price 56:70 Not the first edition Creation Room: C.C.A Christensen mural from 1886 Danish Convert in 1850 who studied at the Royal Art Institute of Copenhagen Murals preserved despite being painted onto plaster. Layers of dirt, grime and plaster were removed. Attempted to visualize the creation accounts in Genesis Dinosaurs in creation murals Copied out of the book: The world before the deluge Garden Room: Robert Shepherd mural from 1944 Features many animals and the trees from the garden of eden World Room Murals: Minerva Tiechert mural from 1947 – painted on canvas First woman to be commissioned to paint a temple mural Intimidated by the 60 ft long room, 24 ft high. Contracted for $4000, including cost of the paint Being only 5’2, 117 lbs, she found it exhausting to climb scaffolding all day. She fell off and had to miss a few hours to see a doctor for her arm, but returned after a few hours. She set a self imposed deadline of a month to finish, even though the church officials expected it to take a year. They had to take breaks when an endowment session moved through the room. With the help of some assistants, they finished the 120 figures and 4000 square feet in 23 working days. She returned on some trips during the following year ot make touchups. Back Wall: Tower of Babel South Wall (Windows) – Biblical history in four parts Abraham in Cannon Joseph in Egypt Moses, golden calf, and tablets Pilgrims sailing North Wall – Large Scene of the Gentiles Easu The Orient Crusaders Columbus Shadowy figures Front Wall – Both sides entering into the American Continent “Indian Brave” with arms outstretched Zion in the Nexus – grid of Manti City Celestial room connected to a sealing room that once served as the Holy of Holies. Spiral Staircases and Assembly room Waterproofing the walls and foundation of the building was the priority of the renovation Water from the hillside had been seeping into the walls and into the sealing rooms. Emily (H)utt thinks that not a lot changed from the inside of the temple Urdaneta Philippines Temple <a href="ht...
Transcribe →April 2019’s General Conference Twitter Round-Up – Priesthood Session
Apr 7, 2019Tap to summarizeHubby is off to conference, and rocking a scale mail tie. Looking good!#GeneralConference #PriesthoodSession #ScaleMail #CoolTies pic.twitter.com/t15FbdaUmp — Carly Kjelstrom (@crkjelstrom) April 6, 2019 You know what your temptations are. Have you created a plan as to what to do when those temptations arise?#ElderStevenson #GeneralConference #PriesthoodSession — Joel Hilton (@786Joel) April 7, 2019 Offensive strategies will help you strengthen your testimony in@Jesus Christ. Defensive strategies help you predict your opponents strategy and plan for your actions when faced with temptation.#ElderStevenson #GeneralConference #PriesthoodSession — Kris Allee (@kdallee) April 7, 2019 Talking about the new 11-year-old Deacons Welcome!#ElderStevenson #GeneralConference #PriesthoodSession — The IT guy (@COL_James83) April 7, 2019 When my son is a teenager, I hope we still have this kind of relationship. #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/NjK7DphUI6 — AKK (@akkfigueira) April 7, 2019 The quorum is all for one and one for all! #ElderCook #GeneralConference #PriesthoodSession #LDS #TwitterStake pic.twitter.com/QZuyKzMeo5 — Mexican Vanilla (@_LovelyLeslie_) April 7, 2019 Priesthood quorums change the odds. The quorum is all for one and one for all. It is a place where miracles happen. -Carl B. Cook #Christian #JesusChrist #LDS #BookOfMormon #GeneralConf #generalconference #ldsConf #priesthoodsession#ShareGoodness — Andrew LeBaron (@Andrewinvestor) April 7, 2019 Every priesthood holder benefits from a strong quorum… #eldercarlcook #GeneralConference pic.twitter.com/F4b0R8tnxM — Scott Hales (@ScottHales80) April 7, 2019 “Working with our sisters” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/elderclark?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&utm...
Transcribe →