Thinking Celestial - A ”Follow The Prophet” Series Podcast · SLCC Institute of Religion

Ep 171 S7 Shaylie Huntington ‘Cheering Each Other On’ J. Anette Dennis

·32 min·2 clips

Shaley quotes Sister Dennis: "I no longer knew if there was a God."

Kirk opens by welcoming Shaley back and setting up Sister J. Annette Dennis's conference message. The conversation starts with a clear testimony that Heavenly Father's plan is fabulous, and it keeps the Savior's atonement at the center of that hope. From there, the hosts settle into the question of belonging at church. Shaley notes that the footnotes feel personal, not just borrowed quotations, and that detail matters because the episode treats Dennis's own words as part of the message. The concern for sisters feeling at home in Relief Society becomes a major thread. Kirk and Shaley keep coming back to how hard church can feel for people in different circumstances. They mention being from a different country or race, being a sleep-deprived mom, being single, or being someone returning after time away. The point is simple: loneliness at church is real, and connection matters. The discussion stays warm even when it gets serious, and it moves at an easy, familiar pace between two people thinking aloud together. That loose rhythm leaves room for quick jokes and small side comments, which keeps the personal examples close and grounded. One of the clearest applications comes when they talk about reaching back out after a holiday. That small act becomes a picture of cheering each other on. The hosts keep returning to the idea that family-like care should make room for people as they are. The closing section turns back to the Savior with a direct note, and Dennis's image of the iron rod makes the call to stay close feel steady. The final testimony says to keep your eye on Him and not let go. The episode ends by linking trust in Jesus with the hope that He is cheering listeners on.

As heard by us

A calm reflection on belonging, encouragement, and keeping the Savior at the center.

This episode centers on Sister J. Annette Dennis's "Cheering Each Other On" and keeps its focus on belonging. Kirk Burbage and Shaley Huntington talk through the message in a calm, conversational way, and the strongest point lands in plain terms: some people arrive at church…

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Why you'd press play

For when you want a calm conversation about belonging, Relief Society, and cheering each other on.

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