Many Latter-day Saints long for a more inclusive church, including less of an emphasis on doctrines in favor of learning to listen better to each other and open our hearts to more diverse points of view. They are bored by and are unmoved by certainty. They want a deeper connection with the Divine (however they picture that). They want to be heard and understood for who they are and not feel they have to perform the role of “perfect” Mormon.
This episode looks closely at the concept of “Big Tent” Mormonism. How can we help bring it about? What are the main obstacles standing in the way of us learning to be more welcoming to everyone? How can we broaden awareness of faith struggles and talk about them in genuine ways (and not just offering quick responses and rushing to get back to the lesson)?
Listen in as LDF host Dan Wotherspoon engages with show regular Terri Petersen and the wise historian and church watcher Greg Prince! We think you will really enjoy the conversation!
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Greg Prince books:
All available in different formats online
Power from on High: The Development of Mormon Priesthood (Signature Books, 1995)
David O. McKay and the Rise of Modern Mormonism (University of Utah Press, 2005)
Leonard Arrington and the Writing of Mormon History (University of Utah Press, 2016)
Gay Rights and the Mormon Church: Intended Actions and Unintended Consequences (University of Utah Press, 2019)
Other things mentioned in the episode:
Charles Harrell, This Is My Doctrine: The Development of Mormon Theology (Greg Kofford Books, 2011)
Carol Lynn Pearson, The Ghost of Eternal Polygamy: Haunting the Hearts and Heaven of Mormon Women and Men (Pivot Point Books, 2016)
Frances Lee Menlove, The Challenge of Honesty: Essays for Latter-day Saints by Frances Lee Menlove (Signature Books, 2013)