All In Emily Utt: Guarding the Sacred
Nov 19, 2025
Emily Utt, a historic preservation curator with nearly two decades dedicated to the sacred sites of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shares fascinating insights from her unique career. She explains what constitutes a sacred space and how these locations help us remember and connect with our faith. Emily discusses the importance of uncovering historical narratives and the emotional weight of preserving sites like the Kirtland Temple. She passionately advocates for the significance of being 'all in' with one’s faith and the transformative power of learning our ancestors’ stories.
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Broad Definition Of Sacred Space
- A sacred space is any place you feel the hand of the Lord, from a temple to a closet or outdoor spot.
- Emily Utt emphasizes personal and local sacred places as equally meaningful as formal worship sites.
Physical Memory Strengthens Faith
- Remembering our heritage is a commanded and spiritual practice in Church scriptures.
- Physical places act as powerful prompts that help us recall God's mercy and recommit to gospel principles.
Dancing In Kirtland Sparked Perspective
- Emily recalled dancing in the John Johnson barn and realizing early saints were young and uncertain like her.
- That connection inspired her to serve a mission and see church founders as relatable role models.
