Event: DC Symposium 2009

DC09009: Why I Stay

This perennially well-received Sunstone session features the stories of those who have chosen to remain active, dedicated Latter-day Saints even in the face of many difficult challenges to traditional faith. How have these members wrestled with their faith and yet emerged more determined than ever to be a part of the Latter-day Saint community? JALYNN …

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DC09010: The Mormon Place in the American Religious Landscape

In 2008, the Pew Forum released the US Religious Landscape survey, the largest study of American religious life ever conducted, including a statistically significant sample of Latter-day Saints. What does it tell us about Mormons and other religious groups in America? This presentation will focus on three areas, with a particular focus on the Mormons: …

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DC09012: Obedience Culture Churches and Their Impact: From Guantanamo to California’s Proposition 8

Obedience Culture values conformity over competence, unflinching faith over critical thinking, and institutional loyalty over human dignity. I examine the ascendancy of Obedience Culture among LDS and other US religious communities and explore its recent extension into public policy. I argue that Obedience Culture influences have deteriorated America’s moral leadership and that the particularly organized …

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DC09013: Panel: Mormons in International Relations

With its corps of missionaries and explosive growth overseas, the LDS Church is evolving from a US church to an international religion. Church members are often inclined toward careers in international relations. What are some issues that Mormons working in international relations should be prepared to address? What challenges might Mormons experience during a career …

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DC09002: This is My Body: Thinking about the Sacrament

In this devotional, we will read the story of the Last Supper closely to unpack the language and find parallels and connections to all aspects of Christ’s ministry. We will seek to unfold new dimensions to the weekly ritual of the Sacrament. What does it symbolize? What does it direct our attention toward? How can …

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DC09004: An LDS Rationale for Humane Immigration Policy

Migration is the story of Adam and Eve, Lehi’s family, the Israelites, Mary, Joseph, and Jesus–as well as 12 million undocumented immigrants in the US and 24 million forcibly displaced persons worldwide. This discussion will explore opportunities for Latter-day Saints to “welcome the stranger” and the ways in which many LDS leaders respond to this …

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