Disclaimer to my LDS/ Mormon listeners: this episode contains constructive criticism of Church culture.
For listeners who are unfamiliar with Mormonism: this episode contains some verbiage related to the LDS/ Mormon subculture. Here’s a brief orientation:
- Ward: a congregation. This is the congregation that members meet and worship with most regularly. The Bishop is the leader of a ward.
- Stake: a geographical area, consisting of several wards. The Stake President is the leader of a Stake.
- Singles Ward: a congregation for young, non-married adult members to meet and worship. My understanding is that the age range for Singles Wards is 18-30 years old. There is typically a lot of pressure in Singles Wards to meet other singles, go on heteronormative dates, and get married.
- Home Ward: a congregation where family units meet and worship regularly. Ex: a young adult may be attending a Singles Ward, but visit their parents (who are members) and attend their “Home Ward.”
- The Priesthood: the LDS/ Mormon Church believes that the Priesthood is the literal power and authority of God, given to “worthy” men in the church. In this way, the LDS/ Mormon Church is patriarchal, as only men assigned at birth are given the priesthood.
- Home Teacher: now referred to as “Ministering Brother / Sister”, this program in the church is for members to check up on each other to address any individual and/or family needs.
Paul and I met before I married J. In this episode, we discuss Paul’s perspective about J, his family, the church culture related to marriage and divorce, and how to best support people with non judgment. Along the way we get distracted by Mario Party/Mario Kart, Chocolate Necessities (not sponsored), as well as some behind-the-scenes content about how I met my current sweetheart! You won’t want to miss this convo!
Music by RoboRob
Artwork by Asif Ulislam
Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
Learn more about Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: