FAIR

Blog

Following Christ: Choosing Peace in a Contentious World

by

In a world filled with heated debates, divisive rhetoric, and increasing hostility, how can followers of Jesus Christ navigate discussions with love and clarity? Is it possible to stand firm in faith without contributing to contention?

In his talk Following Christ, President Dallin H. Oaks reminds us that discipleship is a continuous commitment, not an occasional practice. He teaches that to truly follow Christ, we must anchor ourselves in covenants and uphold His commandments, even when the world pressures us otherwise. [Read more…] about Following Christ: Choosing Peace in a Contentious World

Court Ruling in the case of James Huntsman vs the Corporation of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

by

In March of 2021, James Huntsman filed a lawsuit against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Sometimes referred to as Mormon) alleging that that he paid tithing based on false statements given by then President Gordon B. Hinkley who said that tithing funds would not be used to build the City Creek Mall. What President Hinkley said was as follows:

But I wish to give the entire Church the assurance that tithing funds have not and will not be used to acquire this property. Nor will they be used in developing it for commercial purposes.

Funds for this have come and will come from those commercial entities owned by the Church. These resources, together with the earnings of invested reserve funds, will accommodate this program.[i]

On January 31, 2025, The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled unanimously in favor of the Church. [Read more…] about Court Ruling in the case of James Huntsman vs the Corporation of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Cause for Christ Episode 2: Scrupulosity (moral and religious OCD) with Dr. Debra McClendon

by

Podcast: Download (63.5MB)

Subscribe: RSS

In this episode, Ryan sits down with Debra McClendon to discuss religious OCD, also known as Scrupulosity. Debra shares valuable advice for those navigating Scrupulosity while striving to stay faithful within the church. They explore what approaches tend to be effective, what often falls short, and dive into topics like consecration, burnout, and finding balance. If you or someone you know struggles with Scrupulosity, anxiety, or toxic perfectionism, we hope this conversation offers insight and support.

Debra Theobald McClendon, PhD is a licensed psychologist in the state of Utah and has interjurisdictional authorization to work with clients in most U.S. states. She specializes in treating those with scrupulosity, a religious and moral subtype of OCD. She is the owner of The OCD & Scrupulosity Clinic (ocdscrupulosityclinic.com) and is a member of the International OCD Foundation. She has been interviewed on podcasts, published articles, and published the book: “Freedom from Scrupulosity: Reclaiming Your Religious Experience from Anxiety and OCD.”

Ryan Sorensen is a native of Cache Valley, Utah. He earned his Bachelor’s degree at BYU-Idaho and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Abilene Christian University, with plans to become a chaplain after graduation. Ryan previously hosted a podcast called The Whom Shall We Go? Podcast. In his spare time, he enjoys being involved in interfaith work, reading about Latter-day Saint theology and history, training for triathlons, and spending time with friends and family.

Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 6–9, 13 – Mike Parker

by

Podcast: Download (20.0MB)

Subscribe: RSS

Oliver Cowdery became Joseph Smith’s scribe; restoration of the Aaronic Priesthood

(D&C sections 6–9, 13)

by Mike Parker

(Mike Parker is a long-time FAIR member who has graciously allowed us to use materials he originally prepared for the Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class. The scripture passages covered in his lessons don’t conform exactly to the Come, Follow Me reading schedule, so they will be shared here where they fit best.)

Class Notes [Read more…] about Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 6–9, 13 – Mike Parker

Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 – Autumn Dickson

by

Podcast: Download (23.0MB)

Subscribe: RSS

In Every Thought

by Autumn Dickson

The Lord is speaking to Joseph and Oliver in the sections that we read for this week. There is a lot of fantastic material about how the Lord sets us up to try something new, knowing we’ll fail, but also knowing that we have to begin in order to learn. There are principles of revelation and how the Lord utilizes our desires to build up His kingdom.

One of the principles that the Lord speaks about is pretty straightforward. [Read more…] about Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 6–9 – Autumn Dickson

Happy February from FAIR!💝Upcoming Conferences and a Call for Papers, the Church in the News

by

Dear Friends,

We hope this newsletter finds you well. As we navigate the challenges of the world, we are reminded of the Savior’s call to love our neighbors and be peacemakers. At FAIR, we remain committed to strengthening faith, answering critical questions, and providing resources that support and uplift Latter-day Saints everywhere.

We have several exciting updates to share, including news from the Church, details about our upcoming FAIR Conference, and new resources to assist in your gospel study. Thank you for your continued support—we couldn’t do this work without you!

Spiritual Message: Embracing Love and Peace

In his April 2023 General Conference address, President Russell M. Nelson emphasized the importance of being peacemakers:

[Read more…] about Happy February from FAIR!💝Upcoming Conferences and a Call for Papers, the Church in the News

The Man Who Communed with Jehovah: Joseph Smith and the Restoration of Truth

by

How Can We Know That God Answers Us?

Many wonder if God hears their prayers, especially in moments of doubt. The life of Joseph Smith provides a profound response to this question. His experiences illustrate that God is a revealing, personal, and involved being who speaks to those who sincerely seek Him.

A Prophet’s Testimony of Jesus Christ

In his General Conference address, Elder Kyle S. McKay testifies of Jesus Christ through the lens of Joseph Smith’s life. Joseph’s search for truth led to the First Vision, launching the Restoration of the Gospel and demonstrating God’s willingness to respond to sincere seekers. Elder McKay highlights Joseph’s unwavering faith, commitment to repentance, and reliance on revelation, showing how these principles remain vital today. [Read more…] about The Man Who Communed with Jehovah: Joseph Smith and the Restoration of Truth

Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 3, 5, 10, 17 – Mike Parker

by

Podcast: Download (22.9MB)

Subscribe: RSS

Translation of the Book of Mormon; the Three Witnesses

(D&C sections 3, 5, 10, 17)

by Mike Parker

(Mike Parker is a long-time FAIR member who has graciously allowed us to use materials he originally prepared for the Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class. The scripture passages covered in his lessons don’t conform exactly to the Come, Follow Me reading schedule, so they will be shared here where they fit best.)

Class Notes [Read more…] about Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 3, 5, 10, 17 – Mike Parker

Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 3–5 – Autumn Dickson

by

Podcast: Download (19.9MB)

Subscribe: RSS

Joseph’s Repentance

by Autumn Dickson

This week we find Joseph in an early difficult lesson. Martin Harris had faced mounting pressure from his family to abandon Joseph, and Martin wanted to show the early manuscript to his family to gain support. Joseph asked the Lord multiple times despite receiving no’s, and the Lord finally told him to do what he wanted. Martin took the manuscript and lost it. Joseph was devastated and experienced a season of repentance. [Read more…] about Come, Follow Me with FAIR – Doctrine and Covenants 3–5 – Autumn Dickson

The Triumph of Hope: Finding Light Through Christ in Times of Darkness

by

What sustains us when life feels unbearably heavy or when answers to our prayers seem delayed? The answer lies in a living, vibrant gift—hope in Jesus Christ.

In his General Conference talk, The Triumph of Hope, Elder Neil L. Andersen invites us to anchor ourselves in the Savior, Jesus Christ, and His Atonement as the ultimate source of light and joy. Elder Andersen reminds us that hope is not passive wishfulness; rather, it is a divine gift that grows as we strengthen our faith. This talk is particularly relevant for those grappling with questions about faith, adversity, and God’s plan, offering profound insights for overcoming the trials and uncertainties of mortality with confidence in the Savior. Hope, as Elder Andersen teaches, is the antidote to despair and the promise of peace amidst the storms of life. [Read more…] about The Triumph of Hope: Finding Light Through Christ in Times of Darkness