Thinking Celestial - A ”Follow The Prophet” Series Podcast

SLCC Institute of Religion
  • 5.0 (16)
  • Religion & Spirituality
  • Updated Weekly

This podcast series is produced at the Taylorsville Utah Institute of Religion at Salt Lake Community College Redwood Campus. Student-hosted podcasts include various guests exploring a variety of gospel topics. Each episode seeks to help listeners find ways to fulfill President Russell M. Nelson’s October 2023 charge to ”Think Celestial.”

  1. Aug 3

    Ep 224 S8 Shawn Bills ‘Ministering — “That Ye Love One Another; as I Have Loved You” Sister Kristin M. Yee

    In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge and University of Utah Institute instructor Shawn Bills discuss Sister Kristin M. Yee’s April 2026 General Conference message, “Ministering — ‘That Ye Love One Another; as I Have Loved You.’” Together they explore what it means to truly minister as the Savior did by seeing people where they are, rather than where we think they should be. Their conversation highlights the power of loving others in the midst of their struggles, imperfections, and flaws, emphasizing that Christlike ministering is rooted in compassion, patience, and genuine connection. As they reflect on personal experiences and gospel principles, they invite listeners to become more intentional disciples who extend grace, build belonging, and help others feel the Savior’s love exactly when and where they need it most. Review the original address here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04/14yee?lang=eng    Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

  2. Aug 3

    Ep 223 S8 Alyssa Edwards ‘Christ, Author and Finisher of Our Faith’ Eduardo F. Ortega

    On this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge is joined by UVU Institute teacher Alyssa Edwards to discuss Elder Eduardo F. Ortega’s April 2026 General Conference message, “Christ, Author and Finisher of Our Faith.” Together they explore how a life of discipleship is a process of being refined through both joyful and difficult experiences. Their conversation highlights the Savior’s role in strengthening us through mental health challenges, helping us develop greater faith, resilience, and hope. As they examine what it means to trust Christ as both the beginning and the end of our spiritual journey, they share practical insights on allowing Him to shape, guide, and perfect us as His disciples. Review the original address here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04/24ortega?lang=eng    Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

  3. Jul 27

    Ep 222 S8 Collin Henderson ‘Because of Jesus Christ’ Dale G. Renlund

    In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge is joined by young father Collin Henderson to discuss Elder Dale G. Renlund’s April 2026 general conference message, “Because of Jesus Christ.” Together they explore the transforming power of the Savior’s grace and how true hope is found not in instant change, but in faithfully trusting the process of growth and recovery through Jesus Christ. Drawing on experiences from the Church’s Addiction Recovery Program, they discuss the importance of patience, perseverance, and relying on the Savior through setbacks and successes alike. Their conversation highlights how, because of Jesus Christ, healing, forgiveness, and lasting change are possible for everyone who continues moving forward in faith. Review the original address here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04/46renlund?lang=eng   Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

  4. Jul 27

    Ep 221 S8 Rachel Henderson ‘Tithing — Putting God First’ Jorge T. Becerra

    In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge is joined by young mother Rachel Henderson to discuss Elder Jorge T. Becerra’s April 2026 General Conference message, “Tithing — Putting God First.” Together they explore how paying tithing is a powerful expression of faith, discipleship, and trust in the Lord, especially during times of financial uncertainty. Rachel shares insights from the perspective of a young family seeking to prioritize God amid competing demands, while Dr. Burbidge highlights the spiritual blessings that come from putting the Lord first. Their conversation centers on the Lord’s promises to those who faithfully keep this law, including the “windows of heaven” blessings described in scripture, and the peace, trust, and increased faith that accompany obedience. Review the original address here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04/18becerra?lang=eng  Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

  5. Jul 23

    Ep 220 S8 Matt Merrill ‘Encounter at the Empty Tomb’ Dieter F. Uchtdorf

    In this episode of Thinking Celestial, Dr. Kirk Burbidge is joined by frequent guest Dr. Matthew Merrill of the Taylorsville Institute faculty to discuss President Dieter F. Uchtdorf’s inspiring April 2026 General Conference message, “Encounter at the Empty Tomb.” Together they explore the profound significance of the Savior’s Resurrection, the hope and joy found in the empty tomb, and how personal encounters with Jesus Christ can transform faith, dispel doubt, and bring peace in times of uncertainty. Drawing on scripture, personal insights, and practical application, Kirk and Matt invite listeners to deepen their testimony of the living Christ and discover what the miracle of Easter means for disciples today. Review the original address here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04/41uchtdorf?lang=eng  Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

  6. Jul 20

    Ep 219 S8 Kevin Hallstrom ‘Jesus Christ Is the Way’ Brian J. Holmes

    Join Dr. Kirk Burbidge and Ensign College religion professor Kevin Hallstrom on this episode of Thinking Celestial as they explore Elder Brian J. Holmes’s inspiring General Conference message, “Jesus Christ Is the Way.” Together they discuss what it means to follow the Savior as the covenant path in a world filled with distractions and uncertainty. Drawing on scripture, prophetic counsel, and personal experiences, Brother Burbidge and Brother Hallstrom highlight how faith in Jesus Christ brings purpose, peace, and spiritual direction, helping disciples confidently move forward as they trust in Him who is truly the way, the truth, and the life. Review the original address https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2026/04/28holmes?lang=eng  Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

  7. Jul 13

    Ep 218 S8 McConkie and Holland - Broken Vessel and Gethsemane's' Power

    Join Dr. Kirk Burbidge on this inspiring episode of Thinking Celestial as he revisits two of the most powerful and beloved messages ever delivered in General Conference. First, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s moving address, “Like a Broken Vessel,” offers hope, compassion, and healing for those struggling with emotional, mental, and spiritual challenges. Then, listeners are invited to hear Elder Bruce R. McConkie’s final General Conference testimony, “The Purifying Power of Gethsemane,” a profound witness of the Savior’s Atonement and divine mission. Through these landmark messages, Dr. Burbidge highlights the healing power of Jesus Christ, the reality of His suffering on our behalf, and the hope available to all who turn to Him. Review the original address here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2013/10/like-a-broken-vessel?lang=eng and here https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/1985/04/the-purifying-power-of-gethsemane?lang=eng  Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

  8. Jul 13

    Ep 217 S8 Kevin G. Brown (re-release) 'Let God Prevail' Russell M. Nelson

    Join Dr. Kirk Burbidge for this special re-release of Episode 100 of Thinking Celestial, where Dr. Burbidge is joined by Kevin Brown, Associate Administrator for Seminaries and Institutes of Religion, for a thoughtful discussion on gathering Israel and embracing the full view of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Brother Brown shares inspiring experiences from his upbringing in Jamaica, his journey of faith, and his insights on helping individuals across the world gain access to the blessings of the restored gospel. Together, they explore how the Savior’s gospel creates a wide-reaching net that invites all to come unto Christ, making this timeless conversation as relevant and uplifting today as when it first aired. Review the original address here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/10/46nelson?lang=eng  Enjoyed our podcast? Help spread the word! Please share it on social media or pass it along to friends, family, or anyone who might find joy and inspiration in it. Your support makes all the difference! _______________ Enroll in this institute class here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301   _______________ Thinking Celestial is a "Follow the Prophet" podcast series produced by the Taylorsville Institute of Religion faculty and students at the Salt Lake Community College Redwood campus. These episodes are part of a class administered by the Taylorville Institute. If you'd like to enroll in the class and participate in future discussions and podcasts, register for the online institute today here: https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/institute/15280/classes/1735301    We invite you to go to https://myinstitute.churchofjesuschrist.org/ and register for any class. The views, opinions, and doctrines shared in this podcast are not official doctrines of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Questions, thoughts, and suggestions for future episodes can be directed to TaylorsvilleInstitute@ChurchofJesusChrist.org   If you liked our podcast, please share it on social media or with anyone you think might love it!

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5
out of 5
16 Ratings

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This podcast series is produced at the Taylorsville Utah Institute of Religion at Salt Lake Community College Redwood Campus. Student-hosted podcasts include various guests exploring a variety of gospel topics. Each episode seeks to help listeners find ways to fulfill President Russell M. Nelson’s October 2023 charge to ”Think Celestial.”

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