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

In this milestone 20th episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by peace scholar Elray Henriksen as they dive into the latter portion of the Book of Mormon, often referred to as the "war chapters" of Alma. The episode explores the extensive battle narratives between the Nephites and Lamanites, highlighting memorable characters such as Captain Moroni and Pahoran. The hosts discuss varying perspectives on these chapters, with some listeners eagerly anticipating Captain Moroni's story while others tend to skip ahead to Helaman. Join them as they unpack the lessons and themes of peace within these intense narratives.[00:02:53] Costs of war in scripture.[00:05:21] Allegorical interpretation of battles.[00:08:04] Defining peace through Galtung's triangle.[00:14:44] Millennium of peace commitment.[00:20:13] Militarism and cultural implications.[00:23:10] Inner Captain Moroni.[00:25:04] Worldview in defensive wars.[00:30:01] Temptation and human nature.[00:35:02] Internal struggle and temptation.[00:38:22] Captain Moroni as a model.[00:44:25] Grace in relationships and judgment.[00:47:43] Finding peace through spiritual practice.[00:50:20] Expansive conversations about faith.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

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

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by Thomas McConkie to discuss the urgent need for healing and peacemaking within ourselves in light of recent global conflicts. The conversation delves into ways we can use mindfulness, connection to God, and principles of inner peace to cultivate peace within as we try to create it in our outer world. Tune in as they explore the principles of the gospel and the teachings of the Book of Mormon to inspire listeners to become better peacemakers.[00:02:49] Becoming people of peace.[00:05:15] Tethering yourself to Christ.[00:07:30] Cultivating inner peace.[00:11:01] Defining peace and tension.[00:15:40] Meditation and inner peace journey.[00:22:00] Trusting our inherent worthiness.[00:23:28] Right relationship with God.[00:28:45] Alma's mighty change of heart.[00:31:48] Changed hearts and grace.[00:35:54] Inner peace amidst global conflict.[00:39:34] Contemplation vs. Action Balance.[00:45:29] Retreat to advance in life.[00:49:21] Mothering the World.[00:52:12] Collective trauma and time perception.[00:58:19] Omega Point of Divine Love.[01:00:11] The heart as an antenna.To find full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, Jennifer and Patrick are joined by journalist Julie Rose to discuss Nehor and Korihor from the Book of Mormon, known as antichrists. They explore the themes of misinformation and disinformation that these figures represent, and the relevance of these concepts to our pursuit of peace and Zion. Tune in to gain insights on how to combat falsehoods and promote peace in a world filled with discord.[00:01:11] Lessons from Nehor and Korihor.[00:04:23] Undermining trust and truth.[00:07:39] The essence of peace.[00:13:25] Misinformation in the media.[00:16:24] Misinformation vs. Objectivity.[00:21:01] Misinformation vs. disinformation.[00:23:22] Misinformation in Cold War era.[00:26:45] Antichrists in the Book of Mormon.[00:30:33] Psychological manipulation techniques.[00:33:15] Misinformation and disinformation tactics.[00:37:08] Impact of misinformation in communities.[00:41:32] Misinformation in faith communities.[00:44:19] Faith communities and insularity.[00:48:51] Trusted sources in discussions.[00:51:00] Misinformation in faith communities.[00:54:37] Trustworthy sources in information consumption.[00:57:32] Wikipedia as a credible starting point.[01:03:07] Media literacy and peacemaking.[01:06:01] Finding peace with young women.[01:07:49] Restored gospel discussions.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

On this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer and Patrick are joined by Judge Thomas Griffith to delve into the topic of politics and its impact on peace. They discuss how political rhetoric, especially during election years, can disrupt our sense of peace. Despite the intense reporting on political polarization, they explore how we can navigate these challenges to promote peace in our lives and communities. Join them as they tackle this important aspect of peacemaking.[00:02:14] Political polarization and hope.[00:03:29] Perception Gap and Polarization.[00:08:56] Politics and government transitions.[00:12:31] Associating peace with building Zion.[00:15:08] The importance of the rule of law.[00:19:01] Societal Flourishing and the Rule of Law.[00:22:38] Principles of government.[00:30:11] The importance of consent and equality.[00:33:40] Being informed as a citizen.[00:37:23] American democracy challenges.[00:43:07] Latter-day Saints' role in unity.[00:45:48] Constitutional government and moderation.[00:50:24] The Constitution creates new citizens.[00:53:01] Bargaining over liberty and equality.[00:57:26] Creating a multicultural society.[01:01:32] Embracing the true nature of things.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by multiple guests to explore the baptismal covenant in Mosiah chapter 18 and how it calls individuals to be peacemakers. They discuss the personal and relational aspects of the covenant, emphasizing how each person can contribute to adding peace to the world in their own unique way. Through examining the experiences of Alma and the outcasts he taught, the episode highlights the importance of coming together in afflictions and being willing to bear each other's burdens.[00:00:36] Baptismal covenant and peacemaking.[00:06:09] Media interpreting religious texts.[00:08:14] Counter-narratives in media environments.[00:10:00] Setting boundaries against algorithms.[00:13:18] The active call of discipleship.[00:16:23] The baptismal covenant.[00:20:40] Shifting internal perspectives.[00:24:49] Understanding the importance of covenants.[00:28:34] Empathy and compassion for peacemaking.[00:32:33] Conflict resolution in Fiji.[00:34:35] Women's issues around climate change.[00:40:42] Jesus as the ultimate peace builder.[00:43:14] Baptismal covenant and peacemaking.[00:48:31] Main tension points in society around immigration.[00:50:14] Peacemaking and baptismal covenant.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode, Jennifer and Patrick are joined by Sarah Perkins to discuss Abinadi from the Book of Mormon, highlighting his role as a bold prophet delivering a message of repentance and calling for change. They draw parallels between Abinadi and other prophets throughout history who speak out against societal injustices. The hosts reflect on the importance of discerning true authority from those who simply criticize without offering solutions. Join them as they explore the timeless lessons from Abinadi's story that are relevant in today's world.[00:01:34] True prophets preach divine redemption.[00:06:42] Limits to dialogue.[00:10:36] Defining peace beyond conflict.[00:11:29] Effective conflict management.[00:17:02] Abinadi's powerful discourse.[00:22:16] Speaking Truth to Power.[00:24:22] Peacemaking and addressing injustice.[00:28:20] Peacemaking and Redemption.[00:31:20] Fighting for justice against injustice.[00:34:33] Recognizing real people in change.[00:38:26] Dialogue and understanding in activism.[00:44:04] Navigating values in peacemaking.[00:45:48] Courage and confidence in peacemaking.[00:50:05] Restored gospel and faith matters.For more show notes and transcripts, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this special episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer Thomas and Patrick Mason are joined by a live audience in Salt Lake City to hear a conversation with guest Eva Witesman. The episode introduces the Summer Hope Experiment, a program aimed at promoting civic and emotional healing before the upcoming election season. Drawing on the Book of Mormon, they encourage listeners to lean into conflict to become peace builders and reflect on the impact of collective unity on our nation and society. [00:05:08] Hope and peace building strategies.[00:09:24] Defining peace at four levels.[00:10:07] Levels of peace and harmony.[00:16:16] Building peace through understanding.[00:19:29] Framework for peacemaking.[00:22:01] Peacemaking and peacekeeping examples.[00:24:41] Peace praising.[00:29:09] Building peace through pluralism.[00:32:07] Building a generation of peace builders.[00:36:03] Paradigm shifts in social impact.[00:39:41] Cultural adaptation in program implementation.[00:43:13] Fraying society in the Book of Mormon.[00:48:00] Engaging in peacemaking online.[00:50:37] A new way of reading.[00:53:51] Transformative reading of the Book of Mormon.[00:56:45] Making peace in your life.For full show notes and transcripts, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

Exploring the theme of peacemaking through the lens of the Book of Mormon, hosts Jennifer and Patrick are joined by the Executive Director of Living Room Conversations, Becca Kearl, and delve into the story of Zeniff from Mosiah 9. Starting with a mission of aggression, Zeniff's preconceived notions about the Lamanites and Nephites are challenged as he confronts the complexities of the situation. The episode discusses the power of narratives in shaping our perceptions and the importance of reevaluating our ingrained stories to cultivate peace.[00:01:41] The power of narratives.[00:05:57] Defining peace as a process.[00:09:27] The power of dialogue.[00:12:30] Curiosity and dialogue in conflicts.[00:15:30] Curiosity and sincere interactions.[00:19:36] Human beings as storytelling creatures.[00:25:25] National narratives and cultural impact.[00:27:42] Empathy through shared narratives.[00:32:35] Empathy and understanding in dialogue.[00:34:20] Dialogue and shared values.[00:39:33] Sharing personal experiences to connect.[00:42:21] Dialogue and building together.[00:45:22] Living doctrine through culture.[00:51:18] Finding peace in daily life.[00:52:28] Restored gospel conversations.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer and Patrick are joined by Emile Kayitare, founder of Rwanda’s Empower the Future, a non-profit supporting families affected by genocide. They discuss their favorite sermons in the Book of Mormon: the Sermon at the Temple and King Benjamin's address. They delve into the powerful impact these sermons had on their lives and highlight key passages that resonated with them. [00:02:42] Children's role in societal peace.[00:04:39] Rwandan genocide and reconciliation.[00:09:07] Genocide in Rwanda.[00:15:27] Divisive language and its impact.[00:20:45] Effects of violence on generations.[00:25:45] Rebuilding Lives Through Education.[00:30:33] Caring for children in society.[00:35:15] Reading history with the Book of Mormon lens.[00:40:40] Justice and reconciliation process.[00:43:55] Forgiveness and reconciliation after prison.[00:49:47] Finding peace through helping others.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

On this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, Jennifer and Patrick are joined by Annie Bentley Waddoups. They emphasize the importance of reading the scriptures with fresh perspectives and how peace is intricately woven into the histories of individuals and families in the book. By lingering over scriptures like 2 Nephi and Jacob, they uncover valuable lessons about how individual attachments are formed to parents, both earthly and heavenly. Join them on this journey of discovering the profound message of peace within the Book of Mormon.[00:02:36] Nurturing Children in Community.[00:04:44] Transforming trauma into peace.[00:08:09] Peace as a zone.[00:13:33] Born in unstable circumstances.[00:17:20] Personality differences in Jacob.[00:20:28] The power of repair.[00:26:26] Repairing Relationships through Cycles.[00:30:06] Spiritual development and growth.[00:30:49] Heavenly Parenting Insights.[00:36:24] Jacob's leadership qualities[00:42:14] Healing power of atonement.[00:45:08] Peace and human development.[00:47:34] Source of extraordinary peace.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, Jennifer and Patrick delve into the crucial topic of racism and its impact on peace. They emphasize how racism hinders personal and societal peace and discuss the importance of eradicating it to progress towards positive peace. Drawing from the Book of Mormon, they make a compelling case that racism is incompatible with building Zion and highlight the necessity of eliminating it for a harmonious society. Tune in to explore how addressing racism is fundamental to becoming better peacemakers.[00:01:41] Racism impacts building of Zion.[00:04:02] Race and reconciliation in scripture.[00:09:11] Defining peace and repose.[00:14:33] Identity complexities and cohesion.[00:16:54] The Tree of Peace.[00:20:35] Racial identity in religious texts.[00:25:34] Generational sins and racism.[00:29:33] Forgiveness and peace through music.[00:36:33] Positive impact of rooting out racism.[00:40:24] Racialized view of the world.[00:45:31] Bearing witness with humility.[00:48:19] Engaging beyond social media bubbles.[00:52:07] Wrestling with paradoxes.[00:55:27] Spiritual gift from the Savior.For more show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, Jennifer and Patrick are joined by Eboo Patel to discuss how religion, despite being a source of ultimate peace, can also lead to conflict due to the world's religious diversity. They explore the inevitability of conflict around matters of faith and highlight the importance of handling it productively. Drawing insights from the Book of Mormon, they emphasize the significance of teachings that focus on God's saving work for all of humanity. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on navigating religious conflicts and becoming better peacemakers in various aspects of life.[00:02:38] God's diverse messages through scripture.[00:06:56] How do you define peace?[00:09:40] Religion enriches and inspires people.[00:11:45] Interfaith contributions to civic peace.[00:14:50] Embracing diversity in activism.[00:21:02] Religion as fire analogy.[00:24:11] Religious pluralism and refugee resettlement.[00:27:14] Interfaith cooperation and holiness.[00:31:04] Finding meaning in scripture.[00:36:41] Interfaith cooperation within religions.[00:39:19] Interfaith work opportunities.[00:42:43] Interfaith peacemaking in society.[00:49:21] Interfaith peacemaking within religious traditions.[00:50:39] Finding common ground in faith.[00:53:03] Finding Inner Peace.Find transcript and full show notes at https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

Exploring the often overlooked 2 Nephi in the Book of Mormon, this episode delves into the rich content and theology it offers. Jen and Patrick are joined by Chad Ford to  discuss the contrast between the action-packed 1 Nephi and the more mature, world-weary prophet in 2 Nephi, highlighting the lessons on peace and family dynamics found in the scripture. They recommend ways to see Christ as the true hero of the Book of Mormon as they reflect on the significance of the different peace narratives portrayed in the scripture.[00:02:14] Growing Up in 2 Nephi.[00:06:08] Conflict transformation and peacemaking.[00:09:22] The essence of "Aloha."[00:13:00] The significance of conflict.[00:16:45] Peaceful conflict resolution.[00:23:43] Conflict and differing perspectives.[00:26:42] Is it OK to be angry?[00:30:05] Loving our enemies.[00:35:32] The role of eschatology.[00:37:28] Practical peace building strategies.[00:41:27] Active peace building.[00:44:33] Vulnerability and transformation[00:51:47] Missionary misunderstanding incident.[00:53:37] Being right vs being righteous.For transcripts and more show notes, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

On this episode of the Proclaim Peace Podcast, hosts Jennifer and Patrick are joined by Emily Taylor to address listener feedback about the relationship between conflict and peace. They explore the idea that conflict is not necessarily bad and delve into two verses from scripture that provide valuable peacemaking advice. The hosts challenge the notion that peace and conflict are opposites, emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of opposition in achieving true peace.[00:02:15] Conflict as raw peacemaking material.[00:05:25] Definition of peace.[00:09:02] Finding peace in adversity.[00:12:42] Transformative mindset shift on conflict.[00:15:44] Transforming conflict into growth.[00:21:08] Approaches to conflict resolution.[00:27:20] Conflict resolution styles.[00:29:06] Truth and peace in doctrines.[00:33:38] Conflict styles and collaborating.[00:36:00] Learning to negotiate effectively.[00:39:55] Traits for conflict resolution.[00:45:57] Healing inner wounds.[00:48:37] Personal growth and transformation.[00:53:35] The Golden Rule and Conflict.[00:56:48] Little miracles in mediation.[00:59:46] Finding peace through daily practices.For full show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace

In this episode, Jen and Patrick are joined by David Pulsipher to delve into the uncomfortable topic of conflict, violence, and the difference between peacekeeping and peacemaking. They share their personal experiences and struggles with addressing conflict head-on. Despite the initial discomfort of the story of Nephi killing Laban, they recognize the value in unpacking difficult situations. This episode aims to explore the importance of navigating conflict and the growth that can come from embracing uncomfortable conversations.[00:01:11] Peacekeeping vs. peacemaking.[00:04:14] Dealing with violent scriptures.[00:09:02] Peace and societal alignment.[00:16:06] Nephi's faith in God.[00:18:05-00:18:15] Faith and divine intervention.[00:23:49] Nephi's unreliable memory.[00:27:33] Nephi's fascination with the sword.[00:31:11] Power of physical force vs. spiritual force.[00:36:44] Relying on man-made weapons.[00:41:47] Peacebuilding and moral imagination.[00:44:16] Nephi's Law and Justification.[00:49:40] Peacemaking as Sacrifice.[00:53:08] Dual inheritance of word and sword.[00:57:45] Reconnecting with God.For transcripts and more show notes, visit https://mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org

In this special bonus episode, Jen and Patrick address feedback from listeners wanting to learn more about their approach to reading Scripture and extracting peacemaking principles from the Book of Mormon. They discuss their personal experiences with re-reading books and share insights on how to delve deeper into the text to uncover hidden gems. Join them as they offer pointers on their unique method of studying Scripture for valuable takeaways on peacemaking principles.[00:02:21] Reading Scripture in New Ways.[00:04:40] Fresh approach to Book of Mormon.[00:07:47] Color-coding Book of Mormon themes.[00:13:29] Questioning behavior for self-improvement.[00:15:03] Peace and community in scriptures.For more show notes and transcript, visit https://www.mormonwomenforethicalgovernment.org/proclaim-peace