The Origins of Christmas (Christmas Extravaganza) in Christian Tradition The celebration now known as Christmas has its roots in the early development of Christian worship in Europe. The very word “Christmas” is derived from the term Christ-Mass, the Catholic mass dedicated to commemorating the birth of Christ. As Christianity spread across medieval Europe, holy days … Read more
The Latter-day Saint Exodus and Fear of Federal Intervention (1846) As the Latter-day Saints moved west in early 1846, they did so believing federal intervention was imminent. Members had repeatedly been warned that an army was coming to stop their migration. Many viewed the United States government as hostile because it had failed to protect … Read more
Joseph Smith Raising the Dead– Nauvoo Malaria Outbreak & Miraculous Healings, 1839) The Nauvoo Sickness Crisis of 1839 When the Saints arrived at the swampy lowlands of Commerce, Illinois—soon to be renamed Nauvoo—they were met not with stability but disease. The stagnant Mississippi backwaters bred thick clouds of mosquitoes, and by July 1839, malaria and … Read more
Faithfulness and Apostasy in Early Church History Throughout the early decades of the Restoration, many Saints faced profound spiritual and emotional challenges as friends, family members, and even respected leaders left the Church. The episode recalls several stories illustrating how difficult such departures could be. Thomas B. Marsh—one of the original Twelve Apostles—left the Church … Read more
Introduction In this episode, the discussion turns to one of the most frequently quoted and most misunderstood statements attributed to Joseph Smith—his declaration that an adulterer “cannot receive the Celestial Kingdom of God.” The hosts explore how this statement originated, what Joseph actually meant in context, how early revelations treated the sin of adultery, and … Read more
Purpose of the Episode: Missionary Preparation This episode focuses on helping Latter-day Saint missionaries—both future and currently serving—prepare doctrinally, historically, and spiritually. It highlights the need to: Understand core Restoration doctrines deeply. Know something about other Christian traditions. Recognize the emotional highs and lows inherent in missionary service. Doctrinal Foundations Every Missionary Should Know The … Read more
Overview of Postmaster General Amos Kendall Amos Kendall and Political Power in the Postal System Amos Kendall served as Postmaster General under President Andrew Jackson. During the 19th century, the Postmaster General held vast national power because the postal system was one of the few large federal structures. Kendall became widely known for using the … Read more