Finding Empathy in the Abortion Debate

Our “Stick With It” series on the Top of Mind podcast continues with a story from one of our listeners, Heidi Thorpe. In 2022, she set out to better understand views that differ from her own on abortion and began reading the stories of women who’d chosen to end a pregnancy. Those stories took on new meaning when Thorpe found herself unintentionally pregnant and overwhelmed at the prospect of a fourth child. Finding empathy with those women was uncomfortable for Thorpe, but also led to a profound shift in how she thinks about the issue of abortion and what communities can do to support women facing unexpected – or unwanted – pregnancies.

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2 Nephi 6–10

In this episode we’ll talk about 2 Nephi chapters six through ten. This is the first time we hear the words of the prophet Jacob. We’d been introduced to him earlier, but now we start to get some insight into his character and challenges. It would appear that Jacob suffered from chronic anxiety. We’ll talk about how he handled his anxiety issues. We’ll review the writings of Isaiah that he quoted, and how these writings clearly communicate hope to all who struggle with challenges. We’ll discuss how coping with mental health issues requires consistent work and effort, but is quite possible. 

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Proclaim Peace: A New Podcast

Today we’re sharing with you an episode from a brand new podcast that Faith Matters is co-sponsoring in collaboration with Mormon Women for Ethical Government, called Proclaim Peace. This podcast is hosted by Jennifer Thomas, Co-Executive Director of MWEG, and Patrick Mason, Leonard Arrington Chair of Mormon History and Culture at Utah State University, and longtime friend and advisor of Faith Matters. 

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The Trials & Blessings of Battling MS & Attending the Temple

In this episode Jan Burger opens up about her lifelong love of sports and her difficult battle with multiple sclerosis.  She also shares many experiences and blessings she's received from attending the temple, and how several members of her ward have lovingly served her by helping her attend so that she can serve those who have passed on. She also shares a special spiritual experience that she had with her dad the night he passed away. Jan's difficult health battles, her spiritual experiences, and her strong desire to serve in the temple is inspiring and will touch your heart.

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