Episode 161: A Better Way to Mentor LDS Young Adults with Patrick Mason
Oct 2, 2023
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Valerie talks with Patrick Mason, a university professor and mentor for young adults in the LDS church. They discuss the fear of constructive conflict within the Latter-day Saint community, the challenge of finding spaces for open dialogue, and the need for creativity and transformation in the church. Patrick emphasizes the importance of conflict resolution skills and creating safe spaces for meaningful discussions.
Creating safe spaces for authentic conversations and growth is crucial in the LDS community.
Embracing conflict as an opportunity for growth and prioritizing relationship above conformity are essential for faith development.
Deep dives
Creating a Safe Space for Spiritual Growth and Connection
The podcast episode features a conversation with Patrick Mason, who stumbled into the faith crisis space and now helps others navigate their own faith journeys. They discuss the need for authentic connection in the LDS community, especially among college students. The students crave real human connection and spaces where they can have genuine conversations without feeling juvenileized. They also discuss the importance of developing a Christ-centered faith and the desire to live true to their values while navigating the complexities of life. The conversation highlights the need for growth and change within the church, with a focus on engaging in healthy conflict and creating spaces where individuals can wrestle with their questions and doubts.
The Importance of Cultural Change within the Church
The episode delves into the challenges of creating a culture within the church that supports authentic connection, growth, and open conversations. It acknowledges the resistance to change and the difficulty of managing conflict constructively within church settings. The need for adult growth and development in the church is emphasized, as well as the fact that religion should not be the least sophisticated part of one's life. The conversation explores the role of individuals in driving change and the importance of opening up homes as spaces for meaningful dialogue and growth. It underscores the need for psychological agency and the ability to navigate complexity and paradox within faith.
Exploring the Spiritual Awakening and the Next Generation
The podcast episode highlights the spiritual awakening happening among the younger generation and the importance of creating spaces where they can engage in complex conversations and authentic worship. It addresses the fear of losing the best and brightest by allowing for flexibility and dialogues that prioritize growth and openness. The conversation challenges the conventional belief of right and wrong answers, emphasizing the need to place relationship above conformity. It advocates for using psychological and peace-building skills to navigate conflict constructively and encourages individuals to embrace the growth and change process that comes with faith development.
The Path to Healing and Love
The podcast episode echoes the importance of creating safe spaces where individuals feel loved and supported within the church community. It emphasizes the need for humility and silence to allow for genuine conversations and growth. The conversation highlights the power of love and acceptance in drawing individuals closer to God and in cultivating healing. It encourages individuals to trust in the plan of their heavenly parents and to provide environments that foster healing, growth, and connection. The episode acknowledges the diversity of perspectives and experiences among church members, reminding listeners of the importance of grace, humility, and the long-term perspective of eternal love.
Welcome to a beautiful two-part conversation between Valerie and Patrick Mason, who talk about the often-unaddressed issue of conflict in religious congregations and how tough conversations can be turned around to propel spiritual growth.
Patrick has a unique perspective in this issue as a university professor who has recently begun holding gatherings in his home, helping young adults in and around the LDS church feel safe in their honest enquiries around spirituality in general and the LDS faith in specific.
Valerie and Patrick traverse complex terrain, discussing the fear of constructive conflict within the Latter-day Saint community that often stifles genuine spiritual ministering and growth. Patrick examines this cultural practice, arguing that conflict can and should be seen as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat to unity and peace.
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