413: Complexity of Clark Gilbert Call to the Q12

In this episode Val is joined by Jana Riess, author and researcher of the LDS spectrum of experience and Jason Bergman, former BYU professor & faculty member.  Together they discuss the many facets of the Clark Gilbert call to the Q12 of the LDS church.   

In this conversation Jason contrasts his experience on the BYU faculty both before and during Gilbert's leadership and candidly shares the painful and life altering impact Gilbert's fervor for loyalty and conformity of LDS orthodoxy had on him and his career.  

They also explore the possibility that well-intended loyalty to tradition can actually fracture lives, families, and even the potential good that churches can do in the long run--especially when loyalty to old ways end up getting in the way of further light and truth hiding in plain sight.  

Join them for another bold, courageous, and candid conversation inviting spiritual growth in and around the LDS church.  

Jana's Salt Lake Tribune Article

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome and Guests

00:36 Why This Topic Matters

01:55 Jana Riess Research

03:42 Jason BYU Background

07:20 Mixed Reactions Online

12:11 Why Gilbert Stands Out

17:27 Culture Warrior Defined

27:12 Polarization and Autonomy

35:53 BYU Orthodoxy Crackdown

40:43 Honor Code Turmoil Timeline

43:58 Choosing to Leave BYU

44:56 Faculty Fear and Silence

47:15 Big Tent Tensions

49:14 Incognito Faculty Support

52:41 Loyalty Oath Explained

58:33 Surveillance and Dismissals

01:00:35 Hiring and Worthiness Filters

01:02:52 Growth Versus Orthodoxy

01:07:31 Data on Same Sex Marriage

01:10:02 What BYU Lost

01:17:44 Evolution One Funeral

01:20:46 Gerontocracy and Mini Me

01:22:07 Final Thanks and Farewell