379: When Mormon Polygamy Comes to Primary in 2025

Join Valerie and her guest Jana Spangler in the next two Monday episodes as they delve into the complexities of polygamy within the Mormon church, focusing on the year 2025 when several significant events around this topic unfolded. 

They discuss how early Mormon history, particularly Joseph Smith's revelation on polygamy, has impacted the faith journey of many members. Additionally, they explore the recent polygamy-related additions to the 'Come Follow Me' manual and what this means for teaching younger generations about this challenging subject.  

The conversation extends to practical advice for LDS church-attending parents and teachers navigating the the polygamy topic with children both at home and at church, with a focus on fostering critical thinking both in children and in the adults who are shepharding them in their spiritual growth and development. This episode promises a thoughtful examination of faith, history, and the ongoing struggle to reconcile and/or let go of difficult Mormon doctrines.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:17 Discussing Polygamy in 2025

05:34 Historical Overview of Polygamy

15:18 Polygamy's Impact on Modern Faith

32:19 Personal Reflections on Polygamy

43:42 Controversy and Church Teachings

50:58 Questioning Narratives and Personal Feelings

51:21 Teaching Complex Ideas to Children

53:01 Gender Dynamics in Religious Teachings

58:20 Revised Teachings on Polygamy

01:11:37 Parental Guidance and Critical Awareness

01:23:17 Balancing Structure and Flexibility in Faith

01:35:38 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics