Kyle S. McKay: A Witness of a Living Christ and an Ongoing Restoration
Mar 27, 2024
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Elder Kyle S. McKay discusses his journey as a cowboy turned church historian, touching on topics like troubling aspects of church history, the significance of temples, sacrifices of women, and the relationship with the Community of Christ Church. He emphasizes the importance of being 'All In' in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Kirtland Temple stands as a witness of the Living Christ's appearance, strengthening faith through heritage.
Church historians preserve accurate and faith-centric historical accounts, emphasizing the importance of documenting church history.
Deep dives
Gospel Stream App and Kirtland Temple Reopening
The Gospel Stream app was highlighted, providing access to various church-related content. Also, the Kirtland Temple reopened for free public tours after being acquired by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The significance of the temple during Holy Week was emphasized, linking it to a vision from the Doctrine and Covenants.
Elder Kyle S. McKay's Background and Role
Elder Kyle S. McKay's background as an attorney and his current position as the Church Historian and Recorder were discussed. His family's involvement in horseback riding and the life lessons learned through this activity were shared. Additionally, his unexpected assignment to the Church History Department was explained.
Role of Church Historians and Preservation of History
The dedication and professionalism of church historians in preserving and sharing the church's history were highlighted. The scholars' dedication to accuracy and faith-centric approach in discussing sensitive historical topics were recognized. The importance of documenting and preserving the church's history as a commandment was emphasized.
Jane Elizabeth Manning James and Historic Principle
The significant contributions of Jane Elizabeth Manning James, a black woman in the early church, were detailed. Her perseverance and faith despite facing restrictions in temple ordinances were underscored. The principle of receiving revelation by immersing oneself in scripture was also discussed, showcasing its relevance throughout church history.
If the walls of the Kirtland Temple could speak, they would tell you what they saw that day—April 3, 1836—when the Living Christ appeared to the Prophet Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Still, the temple stands as a witness of the reality of the Resurrection that we celebrate at Easter. Perhaps it is only fitting that the Kirtland Temple reopened under the Church’s ownership this week. On this week’s episode, Elder Kyle S. McKay shares how history and an understanding of our heritage strengthens our own faith.
2:05- A Cowboy at Heart 4:24- Elder Marlin K. Jensen 8:20- Attorney By Trade 11:19- Learning From Church History Professionals 15:56- Approaching Troubling Aspects of Church History 20:33- Jane Manning 25:46- Historic Site Vs. Operational Temple 28:14- Dispensations 31:34- Three Temples 36:33- The Sacrifices of Women 39:33- Why Buy a Replica? 41:25- Relationship with the Community of Christ Church 46:31- God’s Awareness of His Church 48:29- What Does It Mean To Be All In the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
“He said in back-to-back verses in the Book of Mormon, ‘I am able to do my own work’ and He’s doing it but this is take a child to work day and it is a glorious privilege to be His child and go to work with Him and watch Him do it.” —Kyle S. McKay