Mormon Stories is very proud to introduce its newest sister podcast — Mormon Studies Podcast!
In its inagural episode, host Brent Metcalfe interviews Jan Shipps. Jan is professor emeritus of history at Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis and a former president of the John Whitmer Historical Association (2004–05) and the Mormon History Association (1979–80)—a scholar’s scholar who has influenced a generation of students of Mormonism, often reaching across and even narrowing the chasm between believer and nonbeliever.
Over the past several years Jan has laid the foundation for a forthcoming book on the history of Community of Christ (a.k.a. “prairie saints”; formerly RLDS) and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (a.k.a. “mountain saints”) from the end of World War II to the present. Explicating 1950s strategic missiology and convert retention to 2010s ecclesiastical polity and women’s priesthood, she has new and trenchant insights that she shares with podcast listeners.
8 Responses
Excellent interview! It’s surprising to hear a non-Mormon talk about Mormonism with such thorough understanding.
It sounded like she had MUCH more to say about women in the church, so I hope that subject will be delved into in greater detail on her return visit.
Thanks for featuring her!
Sister Shipps has always been one of my favorite voices in Mormonism. She is the closest we have to an unbiased opinion. Kind of like Alex Beam in that she offers just the facts from an outsiders perspective. Plus she is just so darn likable! I have always enjoyed listening to her talks at Sunstone and imagine the fun it must be to sit in her hotel room after and just riff. Great interview! Thank you both!
BRAVO! Well done, insightful and a marvelous initial conversation here for building a bridge toward authentic history and the next step.
This is the podcast I have been waiting for. Well done, Mr. Metcalfe! As one who listened to every second of your interview with John Dehlin twice (so far) with great interest, I am beyond pleased you are hosting. It was a delight to listen to Ms. Shipps. As a nonMormon long fascinated by the history of the LDS movement, I hope she will be a frequent guest.
Now, excuse me while I hit the rewind button….
I always agreed with Jan’s idea that Mormonism is NOT a new Christianity–but that Mormonism is to Christianity what Christianity is to Judaism.
Having left the LDS Church in 2003 and converting to Reform Mormonism, I have gained grown so much in my personal Mormon faith by studying and drawing upon RLDS writings and sources. I’m very excited to read Jan’s book on Mormonism’s two largest denominations.
Is Mormon Studies Podcast available on itunes?
Great interview! YOui have to love an Hitorian’s Historian.
Much thanks to Brent and Jan–loved this interview! Looking forward to the next one.