

Rachel Cope: When God Invites Us to Slow Down
May 7, 2025
Rachel Cope, a historian and BYU professor, emphasizes the importance of slowing down in our spiritual journeys. She shares her personal struggles and historical examples illustrating that conversion isn't a race. Cope discusses the emotional complexities of figures like Lucy and Emma Smith, and how societal pressures can hinder personal growth. Highlighting the miracles of modern life, she advocates for patience and community support, reminding us that God values our journey, regardless of how long it takes.
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Power of Sharing Vulnerability
- Rachel Cope initially kept her painful medical condition private but felt inspired to share it to help reduce shame and support other women suffering similarly.
- Sharing her story led to broader outreach and advocacy, highlighting the power of vulnerability in healing and connection.
Healing Mirrors Conversion Process
- Healing the whole person includes physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual recovery, which parallels the conversion process.
- Trauma opens spiritual space, enabling deeper growth beyond immediate physical healing.
Modern Miracles vs. Historical Struggles
- Modern medical access and support are miraculous compared to 19th-century struggles, especially for women with conditions like fistulas.
- Past sufferings were often lonelier with little mental health awareness or supportive community structures.