Event: Salt Lake Symposium 2012

JOSEPH SMITH AND THE RELIGION OF EXPERIENCE

In select passages of Joseph Smith’s writings are the makings of a new, extraordinary religion. Unlike traditional monotheistic belief systems, with their complex layers of doctrines, rituals, and practices, the religion of experience makes no claims and affirms no premises. Its basis is the autonomy of the individual as manifested in the fundamentals of human …

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SUNSTONE TOWN HALL MEETING

Bring your compliments and complaints to this session and let the SUNSTONE leadership know what we’re doing well—and where we can improve. SUNSTONE board members and staff will report on the past year and describe new initiatives and projects for the years ahead. Laura Compton, Michael J. Stevens, Stephen Carter, Mary Ellen Robertson

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IN MEMORIAM: PAUL SWENSON

The death of writer and poet Paul Swenson in February 2012 left a hole in the heart of SUNSTONE. Following remarks from panelists, there will be open mic time for family, friends, and fans to share memories and thoughts about Paul. Stephen Carter, Phyllis Barber, Alex Caldiero, Carolyn Campbell

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CHANGING REVELATORY MESSAGES: A MORMON EXAMPLE

Like other individuals, Joseph Smith developed his ideas over time, as evidenced by the expansion of themes in his revelations and by his recollections of his early life assuming a theological nature. He seemed unconcerned that some of his ideas changed or contradicted previous positions. Joseph was able to express his interpretation of events as …

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COMPASSIONATE OBSOLESCENCE: COPING WITH TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE

Increasingly alarmed at the pace of technological change, workers and policy-makers struggle with persistent unemployment after a “jobless recovery” and as a wide range of jobs are automated and outsourced. Even (or perhaps especially) those at the forefront of technological innovation find it hard to keep up. Despite its challenges, this era also presents unprecedented …

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HEAVENLY MOTHER AND THE LETTER OF THE LAW

President Hinckley has told us that Jesus Christ forbids our praying to Heavenly Mother. But heavenly parents who refuse communication with their children seem unworthy of their status as gods, and a mother who will not hear or acknowledge her children is not a helpful role model for Latterday Saints. Therefore, there must be some …

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