Don Bradley, a church historian that was disillusioned by Joseph Smith, removed his records. After more studying, he discovered his faith being strengthened and returned to the LDS church.
May 7, 2023
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A church historian, disillusioned by Joseph Smith, removed his records but found his faith strengthened after further study. He discovered connections between the Nauvoo endowment and the Book of Mormon, as well as in accounts of Joseph Smith's first vision and seer stone. His journey navigates faith crisis, departure from the LDS church, and eventual return through exploration of gratitude and fine tuning of the universe's constants
Discovering hidden connections in Mormon history challenges initial beliefs and strengthens faith.
Embracing gratitude and positive psychology leads to personal growth and a deeper spiritual connection.
Deep dives
Journey of Faith and Doubt: Rediscovering Belief through History
The narration unfolds a gripping personal journey through religious doubt and faith. The protagonist, initially devout, navigates the clash between religious devotion and emerging skepticism. Encountering challenging literature that challenges fundamental beliefs, a critical introspection leads to agnosticism and departure from the faith. The exploration of Mormon history, fueled by a deep dive into church archives, marks a significant turning point. Wrestling with foundational questions of faith and meaning, the protagonist embarks on a profound self-exploration, ultimately rekindling a connection to spirituality.
Gratitude and Positive Psychology: A Path to Spiritual Renewal
The narrative delves into the transformative power of gratitude and positive psychology in the protagonist's spiritual journey. Engaging with research on gratitude, the realization of its profound impact on well-being sparks a quest for personal growth. Adopting a gratitude journal unveils a shift from mild depression to a heightened sense of appreciation for life's blessings. The pursuit of becoming a grateful individual unveils a deeper longing for spiritual connection, paving the way for cathartic introspection and renewal.
Exploring Existential Questions through Scientific Lens
Engaging with the intricate concept of fine-tuning in the universe, the narrative navigates profound existential questions. Delving into scientific probabilities and conjectures, the protagonist grapples with the complexities of existence and purpose. Conceptualizing a speculative theory on the universe's origins, the exploration yields a shift towards deism. Rekindling a belief in a cosmic consciousness, the convergence of scientific inquiry and spiritual contemplation ignites a profound reevaluation of metaphysical paradigms.
Reconciliation and Spiritual Rebirth: Embracing Faith Amidst Doubt
The narrative culminates in a soul-stirring journey of reconciliation and spiritual rebirth. Provoked by a profound reconsideration of past choices, the protagonist embarks on a quest for reintegration within the faith community. Encountering forgiveness and acceptance within the church, the protagonist embodies a narrative of restoration and grace. The transformative return to religious roots signifies a poignant evolution from doubt to profound belief, culminating in a testament to the enduring power of faith.
"I was seeing all these things where I was like 'Wow - what is the Nauvoo endowment doing in the Book of Mormon?' I had been convinced that Joseph Smith didn't know anything about the endowment until he became a freemason in 1842, instead I was seeing it all over the Book of Mormon. I was seeing it in accounts of Joseph Smith's first vision and acquiring his seer stone. I was seeing it in the accounts of the lost 116 pages of the Book of Mormon. My mind was kind of blown."
Come Back Team:
Director, Founder & Host: Ashly Stone
Producer and Senior Editor: Lauren Rose
Outreach Manager: Jenna Carlson
Editor: Michelle Berger
Art Director: Jeremy Garcia
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