In the last episode of the year, we reflect on the meaning of peace during the Christmas season. Patrick asks a thought-provoking question about the Christmas story from Luke Chapter 2: Did the heavenly host's proclamation of "peace on earth" truly hold meaning, given that Jesus's birth did not end wars or family conflicts? Tune in to hear excerpts from this year’s podcast guests answering this question and prepare for a season of reflection and hope. We’ll take a short break for the holidays and return in January with new episodes.[00:02:56] Julie Rose on Christ as the prince of peace.[00:05:47] Thomas McConkie on Christ’s love as an omega point.[00:8:50] Annie Waddoups on grace for our imperfect actions.[00:10:19] Emile Kayitare on forgiveness and reconciliation in Rwanda.[00:13:32] Michalyn Steele on finding peace in weekly practices.[00:15:18] David Pulsipher on finding hope in Christ.[00:16:27] Sarah Perkins on friendship across intractable divides.[00:20:25] Chad Ford on active peace building with Jesus.For more show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by professor Grant Madsen to discuss what we learn from the Book of Mormon about how institutions promote peace and foster positive society. Together, they explore how modern politics, growing distrust of institutions, and society’s evolution shape their understanding of peace and the importance of having faith in our best institutions as a path to becoming better peacemakers. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on the lessons learned from history and a bigger perspective![00:01:16] Cultural perspectives on peace.[00:05:14] Government systems and peace cycles.[00:08:49] Systems promoting peace in society.[00:12:11] Popularity of American Heritage class.[00:15:11] Human nature and institutions.[00:19:54] Religion and human nature.[00:23:14] Book of Mormon's view on governance.[00:27:31] Conflict as productive force.[00:28:57] Factions and their implications.[00:34:13] Distrust in American institutions.[00:36:35] Presidential power and government structure.[00:40:06] Politics and personal responsibility.[00:46:06] Leadership and citizenship in institutions.[00:46:49] Democracy and its habits.[00:52:40] Spiritual commitment and societal peace.[00:55:11] The importance of hope.[01:01:04] Democracy and personal reflection.[01:02:30] Peace and conflict resolution.For more show notes and transcripts, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason welcome back Chad Ford to discuss Christ-led peacemaking in the aftermath of the U.S. presidential election. They reflect on the implications of the election results and how they relate to the principles of the gospel and the teachings of 3rd Nephi in the Book of Mormon. Jen shares insights from her extensive work in politics and the conversations she has been having with others about the election, emphasizing the theme that peace was a significant factor in this electoral cycle. The episode encourages listeners to consider how to navigate the current political landscape with a focus on peacemaking.[00:01:58] Peace fractured in society.[00:04:27] Need for Jesus in conflict.[00:10:29] Community conflict and collaboration.[00:15:00] Building relationships in community.[00:19:09] Destruction as a cautionary tale.[00:22:25] Healing and discipleship Choices.[00:27:36] Love and discipleship choices.[00:30:40] Peacemaking in times of conflict.[00:34:31] Embracing political differences.[00:39:47] Restoration and reconnection principles.[00:44:47] 70 times 7 forgiveness concept.[00:50:14] Restoration from exile.[00:51:20] Holding the center in conflict.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this special episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason discuss what the Book of Mormon teaches us about choosing peaceful leadership in light of the upcoming presidential election in the United States. Acknowledging the current political climate, they reflect on the fatigue and tension many are feeling due to the election process. This episode aims to provide listeners with insights and considerations to think about as they prepare to cast their ballots, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, love, and courage in these challenging times. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation that encourages better peacemaking amidst political turmoil.[00:02:41] Peace in political spheres.[00:05:15] Message of peace in faith.[00:09:13] Peacemakers in scripture.[00:12:56] Leadership qualities for peace.[00:16:55] Peacemakers unify rather than divide.[00:19:36] Leadership and societal unity.[00:23:34] Peacemakers see people as people.[00:26:35] Zero-sum politics in society.[00:30:34] Peacemakers show curiosity, not judgment.[00:35:05] Curiosity in difficult conversations.[00:39:05] Trust in society's foundations.[00:41:25] Love your enemies principle.[00:46:27] Courageous peacemaking in conflict.[00:50:29] Transformational value of sacrifice.[00:54:12] Sacrifice in leadership and society.[00:59:09] Voting as a peaceful transformation.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

Elray Henriksen joins the discussion as a peace scholar and visiting scholar at Utah State University, focusing on the Book of Mormon's insights into war and peace. They delve into the lessons hidden within the Book of Mormon’s war chapters, contrasting them with modern media portrayals. Topics include the moral implications of warfare, the inner struggles of characters like Captain Moroni, and the importance of spiritual practices in cultivating inner peace. The conversation encourages a deeper understanding of temptation, leadership, and the quest for genuine peace in a complex world.

In this special episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, Jennifer and Patrick share a recording of their recent presentation at the Faith Matters Restore gathering. They discuss the importance of applying principles of the gospel to foster peace in various aspects of life, from playgrounds to politics. The episode highlights the transformative power of active peacemaking and includes practical examples drawn from their experiences and their work. Join Jen and Patrick as they encourage listeners to embrace the call to be peacemakers in today's world. [00:01:46] Our mission in the world.[00:05:07] Power of small kindnesses.[00:08:44] Cultivating inner peace.[00:12:59] Community connections and relationships.[00:15:28] Building communities of commitment.[00:21:38] Christ-like approach to politics.[00:23:35] Peacemaking principles in politics.[00:30:06] Repairing the world together.[00:31:42] Repairers of the breach.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are re-joined by professor David Pulsipher to explore the principles of peacemaking as taught in the Book of Mormon, with a special focus on two remarkable examples: Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, and the Anti-Nephi-Lehies. They discuss the significance of nonviolent peace builders throughout history, including figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi, while emphasizing the unique lessons learned from the Anti-Nephi-Lehies' story. Tune in as they delve into the scriptures to highlight how these narratives can inspire and guide individuals on their own peacemaking journeys.[00:01:27] Anti-Nephi-Lehies as peace models.[00:04:51] Multi-generational effects of peace.[00:10:34] Defining peace through conflict transformation.[00:11:36] Love transforms wartime conflict.[00:17:36] Anti-Nephi-Lehies’ transformative story.[00:19:12] Conversion and peacemaking among Anti-Nephi-Lehies.[00:24:26] Flipping the script on conflict.[00:27:32] Christian pacifism vs. covenant making.[00:31:15] Weapons of peace.[00:34:24] Armed with love and prayer.[00:39:05] Spiritual victory in conflict.[00:42:56] Creative peacemaking solutions.[00:48:00] Nonviolence in resisting evil.[00:50:22] Higher way to defend.[00:55:05] Finding peace through Christ.For more show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

Thomas McConkie, an advocate for healing and peacemaking through mindfulness and divine connection, shares his insights on achieving personal peace in turbulent times. He discusses the urgent need to cultivate inner tranquility to affect global change. The conversation touches on meditation as a pathway to self-acceptance, the balance between contemplation and action, and the significance of recognizing our inherent worthiness. McConkie also draws on teachings from the Book of Mormon to illustrate how inner peace can ripple out to transform societal issues.

Journalist Julie Rose joins to explore the notorious figures Nehor and Korihor from the Book of Mormon, likening them to today's misinformation and disinformation challenges. They discuss the profound impact of falsehoods on trust and community, especially in faith settings. Julie highlights the importance of media literacy and critical thinking as tools for peace. The conversation also dives into emotional manipulation in belief systems, emphasizing empathy and understanding as vital in combating deceitful messaging today.

Judge Thomas Griffith, a respected figure in the judiciary, shares his insights on the delicate relationship between politics and peace. He explores the challenges posed by political polarization, emphasizing how election rhetoric disrupts harmony. Griffith advocates for active citizenship and respectful dialogue as pathways to understanding. He highlights the role of the Latter-day Saints in promoting unity and the vital importance of the rule of law in fostering societal flourishing. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to cultivate peace in their lives.