In this compelling rebroadcast, we revisit John Dehlin’s 2012 interview with Tom Phillips, a U.K. convert and former LDS stake president whose close friendships with LDS leaders like Harold Hillam, Gordon Hinkley, Russel Ballard, and Jeffrey Holland likely led to the invitation to receive the religion’s most exclusive ordinance, the Second Anointing. However, Tom’s journey would soon take an unexpected turn after taking part in the secretive ritual which would have repercussions for his place among the community and even his own family.

Since the original episode, an intriguing twist has emerged: Tom’s son, Alan, has ascended to the role of General Authority in the Church, despite his father’s well-documented disaffection. This development adds a poignant layer to an already complex narrative of faith, doubt, and family dynamics within the LDS Church.

Whether you’re hearing this story for the first time or revisiting it with fresh ears, Tom Phillips’ journey continues to resonate, raising thought-provoking questions about faith, truth, and the accountability and privilege of Mormonism’s top leaders.