Pastor Living Among Mormons: What is it REALLY like?

[@HelloSaints]

What questions do you have about our first year living in Utah?

[@Metroid-rg9pn]

As a pastor, how do you gain a congregation in Utah? Do you put up flyers? Do you have to poach from other pastors?

[@rodneyjamesmcguire]

Do you like fry sauce?

[@netherquartz8946]

I'm curious if you are actually a religious minority. What I mean by that is I am guessing there are less Muslims, Buddhists, etc... in Utah then Christians. And really if you are a believer in Jesus Christ in a state where the biggest religion is other believers in Jesus Christ are you really a minority? Don't misunderstand me, I get what you mean by saying you are a minority but curious that stats of Protestants vs Muslims vs eastern religions in Utah.

[@mc-nm6ml]

Have you seen the light of the world statues at luminaria in thanksgiving point? If not I think you guys would love it!

[@HelloSaints]

@@Metroid-rg9pn I have a STRONG no-poaching policy. We preach the word, remain kind, hospitable and focus on Jesus. We definitely do social media, mailers and advertising. BUT... the best way to grow a church is via baptisms - those who turn from death to life and put their faith in Christ!

[@jonnawarnke9353]

My husband & I, have thoroughly enjoyed watching your videos, so I thought it was time to leave a comment. We live in Idaho & are also members of the church. Your videos have left such a good impression. You & your wife are always kind, respectful and very thoughtful, even if you don’t always agree. It’s a perfect example for all of us. There is no doubt that those you teach & serve, love your family. The people of Utah are blessed to have you there!

[@RaySmith-q8z]

12/!2/24

[@katiepeterson9761]

Thanks for all the good things you have to say and for your honesty! We are from here, moved away for 13 years where we were the minority, moved back here 17 years ago and finished raising our kids around family. There have been good people everywhere we have lived, with all different backgrounds. My point is this, you are such great people, so warm and friendly and genuine. You see the good here, you reach for good, and I’m sure you know that that makes all the difference for anyone living in any place! Thanks for being good examples of living as the Savior does, by seeing the good! We are blessed to have you here!

[@kimberlycook4679]

You guys seem so sweet, very well spoken and respectful. Joy, you are gorgeous! Thank you for calling us Latter Day Saints & saying the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

[@RaySmith-q8z]

M8m

[@louisemckinney2598]

I am a convert of almost fifty years and have never been to Utah. I’ve lived in Michigan, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and now Kansas. I’ve been so jealous when I hear about all the meetinghouses that members can walk to! I also wanted to comment that I feel we have always been encouraged to get involved in community activities, whether it is in schools or other volunteer work. It has definitely increased through the years, though. Some of that might be because of Just Serve, a place online where we can look for opportunities to serve in our community, in small or larger ways. My local unit has done much work with refugees and fostering programs, just to name a few. When a Hindu temple was being built very close to us, their members were invited to use our bathrooms. We were invited to their open house. It is a Sikh temple, and they are focused on service and love, too. We are welcome to come any Sunday as they feed anyone who shows up. This is the first video of yours that I have watched, so I didn’t know if you had already talked about Just Serve. Thank you for this video.

[@TheMotoRockers]

Love having you here as a neighbor!! I was following your channel many years before you came here. And now you're co-pastor at my church. :)

[@lindaslater7782]

I can't believe it's been a year since you moved to Utah. I enjoy your Hello Saints videos and learning the differences between your church and the LDS church. This video made me shed a few tears as i moved to Provo back in the 1970s and worked in the LDS Church Offices. I moved back to Illinois as my mother was very ill, and we were not sure if she would pull through (yes, she did). I miss Utah and the gorgeous mountains! I hope you continue to embrace the Latter-day Saint faith, and the people of Utah do the same for yours. Keep up the wonderful inspiring videos! May you and you family have a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

[@angelavinen2881]

I can't answer why Utah is so big on Halloween. It's not anything to do with religious belief. I would say it's the family aspect of the holiday.

[@CryptoCPA]

It’s definitely not bigger than Christmas, but it’s probably second. And I would say it’s big because of the family aspect and how much young kids love trick or treating.

[@dannylarsen4290]

Perhaps it's the emphasis the LDS Church puts on doing work for the dead.

[@JohnHarmon]

@@dannylarsen4290 No, it isn't. I think @CryptoCPA is right, family aspect.

[@lisajones1438]

​​@@dannylarsen4290nah, I think the two biggest factors should be the families with kids and then the sense of community that being part of a ward provides. Older, empty nesters still interested in seeing the kids from the ward and their parents decorating at least a little Oddly enough, Halloween does not bring "death" to my mind quite as quickly as it makes me think of carving pumpkins, dressing as something fun, corn mazes, and decorating the house cool

[@rodneyficklin9281]

I don’t decorate or really care about Halloween, in fact I find it kinda dark, however I do love that time of year.

[@jillmpeterson1]

I love how well you communicate and explain how you feel on these videos. You guys do such a great job!

[@tyorgason]

You are the sweetest people ever. I love your curiosity and positivity! It is refreshing to come across people who are sincerely kind and accepting and willing to see the beauty in the LDS community. I love watching your interest, questions, and willingness to love and come together in like values

[@JwcubTHS]

As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (in Oklahoma), I certainly love and appreciate you two, and what you are accomplishing with Hello Saints! I would love to meet you and would easily consider you dear friends! ❤😇

[@Flowerpowwow]

One thing you didn’t say about utah is the wonderful red rocks in the southern part of the state. They say, once you get the red sand between your toes, it’s hard to ever leave this place. Some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. Different than northern utah, but just as beautiful. If you haven’t been to Zion National Park, its a must. There is a reverence there that is just awe inspiring. It was definitely built by the hands of God. Its breathtaking.

[@ljh150]

💯 My husband and I visited Zion np for our anniversary in June 2021. We moved here with our 6 children here just a few months later. This place’s God breathed!

[@mycatwould]

Utah is a cultural shock for other LDS outside of the state. Sometimes people can confuse Utah culture with LDS religion. Although the religion May influence some of those things, many of those “unique” things like pop shops and cookie places, etc are very much not tied to the Church, but more the weakness of some people to sugar. LOL

[@jGeothro]

⁠@@timmiestabrnakbuying a hot chocolate from Starbucks is fine 😉

[@jGeothro]

@@timmiestabrnakbuying a hot chocolate from Starbucks is fine 😉

[@jGeothro]

@@timmiestabrnak buying a hot chocolate from Starbucks is fine 😉

[@saralyg]

@@timmiestabrnakyes! Replacement for coffee shop/cafe culture

[@jillfulmer8744]

I just got back from Utah and I was surprised by how many coffee I passed.

[@abbieblack3923]

Wonderful! So glad you have had such a wonderful experience here. Welcome and thank you for all you are doing to share your outside perspective and positive experience.

[@83n80y]

Utah is really beautiful! I lived in Vegas for a time and missed the clouds and seasons that are so dynamic and beautiful in Utah. Had to move back! Thank you for the cool views and testimonials! Appreciate you guys!

[@markjacobsen8335]

I am very active LDS and grew up in Seattle. I have lived in Utah a couple of times as an adult and despite my religious connection I also struggled to assimilate socially. Fortunately I had a lot of family there, so I always had a welcoming place to go. Every holiday in Utah is next level. They are nuts with holidays. It's great. Utah rivals Germany at Christmas. There's nothing like it anywhere else.

[@marisajohnson2958]

Another beautiful video! I worked at the Oquirrh Mountain temple for four years. It's wonderful there! And I think y'all have hit it on the head about Halloween. Its to celebrate with the kids, and a dash of keeping up with the Jones's. Really glad that your kids and family have felt welcome. Been praying for that. You guys are amazing.

[@AnonymousSource]

Thank you for being so respectful. It’s been fun seeing/hearing about your experiences! ❤

[@AnonymousSource]

Also the bit about the Stanley mug was hilarious

[@glenntuia5637]

Enjoyed your videos. Retired. Moved from Oklahoma to Utah near family. Really love it here. Enjoyed listening to your question and answer dialogues with members. Continue your journey to learn and explore the State of Utah and its people. Will continue to watch your videos. God bless.

[@ringodingo]

We're from outside of Utah and have definitely had a little culture shock just [ visiting ] in state for a few days. What a place !🤩 Keep up the good work. Godspeed!

[@BobbiScott-zp1xd]

Very insiteful! Thank you for sharing! I'm a convert in NE. We travel 1hr to meet with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Sandhills Branch (church). That travel is normal around here. Some places have "cottage" meeting where we meet wherever we can, similar to some of the Evangelical meetings in UT. Currently, our closest Temple is 4 hours and 40 minutes away, worth the drive! 😊 Hope you enjoy your time in UT and may God bless you on your journey.

[@LadiesandGentlemenHRH]

Y’all are just the kindest people. I love living in Utah but definitely get to hear a lot of negativity toward the Church and members (of which I’m one 😊) but thanks for being so respectful. I hope that I’m always as respectful of others and other religions as you are. Utah is truly amazing in many aspects. My family is lifelong Utahns and we went on vacation to southern Utah (Moab, Zion, Bryce Canyon) last year and it was incredible. We go skiing every year at Snowbasin and meet people from all over the country, makes me so grateful to live in such a beautiful area.

[@charlenecastaldo3602]

Pastor Jeff and Beautiful Joy we are so happy you're here. You are the best!

[@whoknows1972]

You need to put Christmas lights up early if you don't want to be climbing ladders in snow, ice, or just stinking cold. 😅

[@Nicole-en1km]

I was thinking the same thing! We put up decorations early because if you wait too long the weather gets yucky and you’ve missed your chance. 😆

[@mtgreengarden]

I have known two different men who literally died when falling from ladders while putting up Christmas lights. Personally, I called an end to such folly years ago for that very reason.

[@kevins4254]

Great video, Jeff. I moved my family to Utah almost 19 years ago when I retired from the military. I got several job offers around the country but have absolutely no regrets about choosing Utah. The only negative is that the growth has brought horrible traffic and congestion. We used to go hiking on Sundays and the trails would be virtually empty. Now it's hard to get parking even on General Conference Sundays. We want to stay in Utah, but we're considering moving to Logan or Cedar City in a few years. Anyway, here are some random thoughts on things you mentioned in the video: 1) People put their Christmas lights up early because it's easier to put them up when it's 50 degrees than when it's 20 degrees. 2) The soda and cookie shops are a strange phenomena. They've really blown up over the last 10 years or so, and it's weird because they go against the healthy lifestyle that is popular in Utah among both Latter-Day Saints and non-Latter-Day Saints. 3) Having lived all over the country, I have found that it's easy to fit in anywhere if you're kind to people and respect their culture. I live in a predominantly LDS neighborhood in northern Utah County, and my neighbors are terrific. We've only had one family that treated us poorly because we aren't members of the LDS church but I did all I could to make peace with them. That can happen anywhere. I also taught at a high school right across the street from BYU, and my coworkers were almost all BYU grads and they were wonderful to work with. 4) I highly recommend going to Temple Square to see the Christmas lights. My wife and I make a day of it. We do some shopping and eat dinner before dark, then walk around Temple Square after dark. It's beautiful. The Luminaria lights at Thanksgiving Point are also great. Luminaria is geared more towards kids and you can easily spend a couple hours there.

[@derekpratte7259]

Thank you for your beautiful perspective!

[@gwengold8154]

I vote for Logan. I love Logan ❤️!

[@micheleh3851]

@kevins4254 - Hello. I was in Utah a few years ago in December and was looking forward to strolling around Temple Square and seeing the Christmas lights at night. Turns out it was too frigid cold for me even bundled in a winter coat and mittens. I was so miserable I only lasted about 10 minutes before I had to dash inside. :(

[@kevins4254]

Sorry you had a bad experience. Utah does tend to get cold and it can be brutal.

[@SalShots]

Loved this episode-so grateful for both of your perspectives!! It’s so fun to get to hear an update on how this past year has gone for your beautiful family❤

[@GlenMcbride-s6l]

I'm 85 & live in Oregon. Have 2 of my 5 kids live in Utah. We are all LDS. I like the LDS culture because my family will survive! Life is hard. You get too far out of the normality of society and the Church leaders and members will let you know. They expect you to obey the laws of society and take care of your wife & kids! It makes life more plesant for everybody, especially your wIfe and kids. My one son had high rank in the military. He was sent overseas a lot to "take care of business" when his litte brother killed somebody as a cop he got to spend a lot of time talking to his older brother. When the youngest went to Afghanistan as a civilian operator (mercenary) it all worked out and he is fine. The Church helps us cope through difficult times. I have big time cancer my wife has worse! The family will survive very well without us! Now it's just a matter of time and we are ready!

[@melanieposton4560]

I had the opposite experience of living always in Utah and Idaho and then moving to Missouri and being a huge minority. And being the religion that the evangelicals look at sideways as being on the highway to hell, etc. I do think that LDS people don't think of other Christians negatively like the other Christians often look at LDS people. But I've met a whole lot of wonderful people who have different beliefs and who great disciples of Christ. It's been good to get out of the bubble. I miss the mountains though!!

[@littleninjakjh]

Moved away from Utah at 20. 40 now. This video made me miss it a lot.

[@derekpratte7259]

You two are absolutely delightful. Though I don’t live in Utah, I appreciate your warmth and wonderful portrayal of the LDS people.

[@armandomestre5438]

Im a member from Venezuela living in Utah and I love you and your wife's videos pastor Jeff!!

[@jonahnicoll1058]

I think the dynamic you experience in Utah is what a lot of latter-day saints experience outside of Utah, and vice versa. Everywhere you go, you need to learn to overcome your weaknesses and find God, the challenges are just different

[@diy-hyrum9842]

I just found this channel. And as a latter day saint, I appreciate that you don't refer to us as mormons. I grew up outside of Utah, so I was always known as the Mormon friend. I never let it offend me, but it doesn't reflect who we are. We are saints and we're Christians, just like any other faith or religion that worships Christ.

[@melissacochran1094]

Growing up, we moved a lot because of my father's work. I grew up in UT and CO in the 70s and remember life in UT was family-friendly, healthy, active, and religious. The LDS religion is actually Christian. Only about 55% in UT are LDS, but the majority are Christian. I then moved to the South and Bible Belt in the 80s where the larger Christian religions are Baptist, Church of Christ, and Catholic. LDS churches were less common and met in schools and other buildings until the membership grew to have a church built. We moved to different places; some small towns, some large cities. In the South it was common for Baptist and CoC to meet during the week and for kids hanging out at each other's house that day to go with them to church. I did know many kids who were not allowed to socialize with me and my family because we were LDS. In smaller towns, it was difficult to get on school boards, we'd get hate mail, etc. Guess my point is that it's not an LDS thing, it's more of a cultural thing in a specific location. 😊

[@markbjork6324]

Loved hearing your perspective of a non lds family moving to Utah. I can relate a little. I am LDS born in Utah but when i was 9 my family moved to US territory of Guam which is very Catholic. In my father's academic circles there were also Buddhists, protestants, and agnostics as well. We lived there for seven years before moving back to Utah. I am grateful for the different perspective i gained and that i learned to have friendships with people who had different spiritual and religious beliefs than myself.

[@BecciBuck]

13:03 as a lifelong Utahn and a mom, I ABSOLUTELY agree! We don’t get big into Halloween, but as a kid, trick-or-treating are some of my favorite memories. As a mom, the houses all done up add to the fun for my kids, and I feel pressure to at least decorate a little to be more festive for the kids. 😊 But also, a lot of us here are big kids at heart, and we do get SUPER into decorating and festivities. There are also quite a few houses in any community who go all out with Christmas light displays, set to music or who do live nativities with their farm animals. I love the over-the-top Halloween and Christmas decorators and visit their homes just to admire their displays. Joy, I also LOVE our mountains. I could never leave them. 🏔️❤

[@ryanjudkins9310]

I really enjoy watching you guys. I hope you feel welcome in our great State. I've been here all my life. In fact, my kids are 5th generation in the same house. Thanks again for your view, your respect, and what you are doing.

[@stevesmith194327]

What a beautiful and enlightening experience to watch this precious video!! Salt Lake City and the entire state of Utah have grown soooo much these past 80 years, since I was born!! Deep family roots in both the LDS and Protestant church community have created emotional ties that 75 years of being away from the state cannot break. From my grandparents’ home in SLC, just 5 blocks from Temple Square to their cabin in the Wasatch Mountains (Brighton), which my grandfather helped his father build, these are symbols of the roots that cannot be easily broken. God bless you and your beautiful family as you pursue His calling in such a rich environment!!!

[@Nicole-en1km]

I would definitely say things have changed since the Olympics in terms of Utahns becoming less insular, but we’ve also had an influx of non-Latter-day Saints moving into the state, so I think that has mixed things up a bit and helped people get to know other lifestyles that are different from their own. I think it’s human nature to think that anyone who is different is “less than”... case in point, I am a Latter-day Saint but my family lived in Los Angeles before moving to the suburbs of SLC when I was eight years old and I definitely experienced culture shock when I started at my new school. I have a disability and was bullied and ostracized for being different, even by the very kids that I went to church with. I had never experienced that kind of difficulty in Los Angeles and I wanted so badly to go back there. So I think we need to be aware of ANY kind of “othering” we do to the people around us, not just to religious minorities here in Utah, and remember to treat everyone in a Christ-like way no matter how different they are from us.

[@kellysong2256]

To be fair, the majority of LDS kids are kind to others

[@Nicole-en1km]

@@kellysong2256 They might be now, but in my experience they weren’t so nice back in the late 80s/early 90s. I’m glad things have changed.

[@kellysong2256]

@@Nicole-en1km I'm sorry that you encountered some little brats that were surely taught better 🙏

[@Nicole-en1km]

⁠@@kellysong2256Thank you so much. Funnily enough, I ended up in the same ward at one point with someone I went to elementary school with and he took the opportunity to apologize for the way he treated me back then. I appreciated his apology and I know it was just a case of him “being a brat” as you said. 😅 People don’t always live up to the ideals they’ve been taught and I’ve found that forgiveness is the best way to keep my own peace of mind in those situations.

[@amanchabra8947]

I ALWAYS LOVE hearing your perspective on Latter Day Saint beliefs, Utah culture, and beyond. I am an active member of the church whose parents converted in California when I was a kid, so I didn't really grow up in the Utah/Latter-Day Saint culture, either. I was usually the religious minority as well in most of the settings I was in, so for someone like me, moving from California to a predominantly LDS area for college was a breath of fresh air, but also a culture shock in a different sort of way. So, I can relate to your feelings of entering a different world being in Utah. At 14:45, I was glad to hear you talk about how members in your area are doing their best to reach out and include you into the culture. I still don't live in Utah, but all of my in-laws do, so I still experience it quite often. Despite being active members with pioneer heritage, my in-laws also moved to Utah from out of state, so they have commented over the years of how different the culture is and how it took them some time to assimilate. It's true, there has been a problem in generations past with members excluding or even almost "shunning" those who are of other faiths in the past. I'd like to think these cases are few and far between, but the fact that it's a narrative that has lived on all these years, means it definitely happened, which again, is sad to hear. In fact, Dallin H. Oaks of the First Presidency of the Church recently reminded members publically how much it saddens church leadership to hear when members do this. Luckily, like you said, in most parts of Utah, that has changed over the past few decades, and all of the reasons you mentioned have definitely played a role. The late-President Gordon B. Hinckley was famous for his outreach efforts to Catholics and Prodestants in Salt Lake, and was even seen attending special Masses or other important events at these churches, so I'd like to think that also influenced my generation (who grew up with him as President of the church), to do the same. Hopefully the trend of openness and inclusion continues for your family and everyone who calls Utah their home, Latter-Day Saint, or not.

[@bartonbagnes4605]

As a kid in the 80s and 90s I had several non member friends. I invited them to church at least once each, but never pushed them. We had plenty of common interests outside of religion.

[@NealCox]

I grew up in the late seventies, eighties, and nineties in Provo. Our neighborhood had two churches: one was LDS and the other was Assemblies of God. The AOG church had a bell tower, and it played hymns every evening around 5 pm (though I'm pretty sure they were just cassette tapes on a loud speaker position near the bells). I remember well when the pastor, whose daughter, Jenna, was in my 1st grade class, invited all of us to tour his church as part of our "getting to know you" program at school. Later, when I was involved in the ubiquitous church basketball tournaments, we invited members of the AOG church to participate in our tournaments. While that church was a purpose-built structure, it no longer functions as a church; rather, it is a retirement facility for Alzheimer's care. I've always wondered what happened. I have lived in Texas since 2002, deep in the heart of evangelical territory. It feels as if I am experiencing the other side of this video. My son, who is a senior in high school, is dating an evangelical girl. It makes for interesting conversations at the dinner table. We have experienced both warm acceptance, as well as blatant bigotry. On the whole, people are pretty good regardless of the religion.

[@Zeett09]

I’m 4th generation Utahn. I have no desire to leave. My mom’s family migrated here in the 1900’s. We were an extended Catholic family. We never really engaged much with any LDS as Catholic’s had their own hospitals, schools, sports programs, scouting programs, businesses, all the way to funeral home’s and cemeteries. It just seems like people tend to want to be among people the most like themselves with similar community interests.

[@CrazyLouLady]

It’s really fun to see your perspective on living in Utah. Just one little correction, I would say that that 24 of July is a Utah celebration, not a church. It is when the first wagon train pulled in to the Utah valley and settled the Utah area. It’s true that it was settled by Mormon Pioneers, but it was settled for the USA, not just the church. I remember growing up in Utah during the 60s and 70s being very wary of anyone that was not a member of the church because they were often times not very kind. We were used to closing ranks and protecting ourselves. It’s different now and I think people like you are the reason why. It’s really nice to communicate and build bridges, but there are still people who want to tell me what I believe and why I’m going to hell. There’s still a lot of work to be done but together we can do it. Thanks for all your work, Jeff and Joy.😅

[@KristaLinford]

Pioneer Day celebrates everyone who came to develop Utah. That includes rail road people, tradespeople who were not all LDS. I think that’s cool that it’s more inclusive.

[@gwengold8154]

I hope that Pastor Jeff goes to the days of 47 parade next year!! It would be fun if he was in it, too! 😊

[@ValerieFulmer]

Great video!! I’ve been a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints my whole life so I appreciate your kindness towards members of the church. And I’m happy people are open to going to your church and support your family. By the way, I’m not a big fan of Halloween. There’s fun scary and then theres’s dark scary & I don’t like any of that. There are some Halloween stores that I can’t even walk in. Anyhow, Thanks for all you do!!

[@dwbogardus]

Great video. Reminds me of how beautiful the Utah landscapes, neighborhoods, churches, and Temples are. Utah has an interesting culture that is distinct from its interesting religion, but drawn from it, since Brigham Young and other church leaders founded most of the communities in a well-organized fashion. I'm glad you have so many Latter-day Saint friends, who have been good examples of trying to follow Christ's admonition to Love their neighbors. We all fall short now and then, but I think you will find that most Utahans are simply nice folks, striving to live the Gospel, as they understand it, and as taught from the scriptures by modern apostles and prophets.

[@khall999]

You both are so wonderful, kind and caring. Thank you Seattle/lifelong LDS🙏🏻

[@lamarheaton8678]

Thanks for helping those of us that are Latter-day saints see where we can and need to make changes to be more welcoming to those not of our faith. Please know all are welcome to join any LDS activity

[@Ajkwhatsahandle]

Great video! You are so respectful, I'm sure your being so respectful helps your neighbors reciprocate that respect and friendliness. Thanks for being so kind! Please keep it up!

[@jacerogers498]

I have followed you since the beginning. I love hearing your perspective on our church and digging into the culture! Keep it up. Glad you are able to enjoy the things we love about living in Utah. I assume you live in the Southwest end of the Valley based on your videos. I ive in Herriman. The best area to live!

[@emilyolsen4692]

I have moved MANY times both in and outside of Utah... I've found that it can be difficult even for members of the church to feel a part of the new ward and community ... as the new person you often have to get out of your comfort zone and be the one to get to know other people. Unfortunate, but true in my experience.

[@jamalive]

I think that is a feeling anywhere one moves too.

[@zionmama150]

10:55 Halloween is often bigger with non-Church members. Some emphasize Halloween as a sort of protest to show they aren’t “churchy”. There are members that are big into it, but they usually go with “cute halloweeen” instead of scary halloween. 🎃

[@highplainsdrifter7999]

Having grown up in Texas and Oklahoma as LDS I know the challenges that you are expressing .The difference is that while you are having a positive experience , growing up in the Baptist capital of the world we were always viewed as the strange outsider. In short where ever you go it is up to you to find those who are welcoming and you will eventually feel at home.

[@RltnspdEMA]

My wife and I are LDS. But, we want you to know that we love you videos! We used to live in the southern part of the valley. If we ever move back we would love to look you folks up and get to know you saints! Have a Merry Christmas!! We look forward to seeing more of your presentation's!! Take care!9

[@bobettepage4440]

I wish we had kept Utah a secret! It’s getting so crowded! I’ve lived many years in the North (SLC, Orem, Provo, Lehi, Murray) and now 11 years in St George and it’s exploding everywhere in the state. I moved here because it was a small city. I love it here but there are things happening that makes me want to search for another small city. St George is becoming a huge city and they are changing the hills and scenery of the city. The traffic is getting really bad (like SLC)!!! I love this video and your positive observations of Utah.

[@kimberlythomas4373]

I think St. G will continue to expand. It’s a cool place and becoming known.

[@TamiMiller-cw2hu]

Hi, I am so glad your video popped up. I hope you feel welcome here in Utah. I live on the west side of the valley. I live in Magna. I am a Latter Day Saint as well as born and raised in Utah. Our mountains are spectacular. There is always something to do somewhere. We do love to celebrate. 🎉 That's for sure.

[@SherryBobbins1]

I love this video so much!!! Utah is certainly a beautiful state with so much natural beauty. I grew up in Idaho, very similar to Utah and we just take every opportunity to celebrate, especially in the fall and winter when it is cold. It gives us something to look forward to!!

[@lindapugmire3765]

I love your videos. You are both so kind and respectful toward Utah...the people and culture...and to each other. You are a couple of gems. I love your positivity. I would like to visit one of your church meetings and listen to one of your sermons. How do I find your location?

[@sherryware]

I don't live in Utah, now, though I did for a few years, but here in Vegas we call our church buildings "chapels". We might say, "Where's the meeting?" Reply,"In the chapel." But that's also a term used for the main sanctuary room for Sunday Sacrament service. Enjoying your channel. 😊

[@tonester2007]

As an active LDS member and an Utah Native you have pointed out so many of the things I dislike about Utah. -soda and cookie shops; I like them as much as the next person (and I hate that I do), they are detrimental to our health here. The amount is sugar in those cookies is frightening. Any health benefits of the word of wisdom wiped out by these two things. -Stanley’s; I LOTHE (like the Grinch) these freaking cups! My wife has one and it’s always in the way in the car and every woman aged 8-80 apparently needs one to survive. 😂 -Halloween more popular than Christmas. That is just a sad state of affairs for the “Mormon capital of the world”. This one I don’t get as I have never been big into Halloween, but to each their own, I guess. -Keeping up with the Jones. This one drives me crazy!! Fortunately, this is much more prevalent in the affluent areas of the state, which I currently don’t live in. The love of money (and things money can buy 🧐) is truly the root of all evil. Some people have too much money for their own good and it shows. Things I love about Utah: mountains, Temples, patriotism and Conservative values (more rural Utah), and guns (at least in my county).

[@crash812]

Great video! Been through there a few time driving form Washington to Moab to Jeep, and recently flew our plane back from Arizona through Utah. As we came over the pass and out over Spanish Fork, my wife and I played a game of "who can spot the most temples," until we landed in Brigham City for fuel. She was surprised at the frequency of those white steeples and even the fancier temples.

[@kevindaugherty6529]

I grew up in a rural Utah community in the 1960’s that was about 90% LDS. My first real exposure to other religions including evangelicals was when I served a LDS mission to the Southeast U.S. I learned there are good people in all religions and eventually one has to find their own path whatever it is. God bless you in your endeavors

[@katjorbar]

Pastor Jeff is really courageous for doing all that hes doing. And I love how respectful he is. I sincerely wonder how he can have a congregation in the middle of UT!

[@lisadurrant5349]

I really enjoyed this video. IDK if Temple Square is open and you can see the Temple Square lights during the holidays. Its so beautiful! If, Temple Square is closed then you can always visit the Christmas lights at the Mesa Temple in Mesa, AZ. Plus its warm down there and you would still be exploring the LDS culture and faith in a different area. That would be a cool video.

[@AGuilloryGirl]

@hellosaints, I live in Idaho Falls and it is very similar living here. My husband is active in the church, as is most of his family. The Evangelical/ Mainstream Christian & Catholic Church is pretty active here as well but definitely the minority. I appreciate it when the churches play nice with each other because I have seen the opposite unfortunately as well. I would love to see you and Joy come visit the area and see what you think of the culture here. I love how you both are embrace the good in everything and are an encouragement to anyone regardless of their faith background. That is truly what the love of Jesus is!

[@camianderson176]

Hi Pastor Jeff! We are coming to Utah during Christmas to visit my family and we would love to see one of your sermons. Where can we come see you?

[@44julz44]

Thank you again for a great video 🥰

[@DavidAllanBRZ]

Every time I see something about Utah, I’m reminded of Isaiah 35:1: “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.” Salt Lake City was literally a desert. When the Latter-day Saints arrived and Brigham Young declared, “This is the place,” many doubted it could be a land of peace due to its desolation, mountains, and wilderness. However, as Isaiah 2:2 describes, “In the last days the mountain of the Lord’s temple will be established as the highest of the mountains; it will be exalted above the hills, and all nations will stream to it.” I believe this is just the beginning of the Lord’s work. The Church will continue to grow, and marvelous things will unfold. This is what I believe.

[@BGCflyer]

…the scriptures you’ve quoted from Isaiah are about the Judah and Jerusalem. The restoring of the Temple in Jerusalem and the mountains of Israel.

[@DavidAllanBRZ]

@@BGCflyer Yes, you're correct, but as I said, those scriptures remind me of the Salt Lake Valley, a desert that blossomed and where the Church was established in the mountains...even though those scriptures are about Jerusalem.

[@BGCflyer]

@ …oh I see, ok that makes sense

[@annecox4068]

Hey there was a lot of things I didn't know about my own culture and a few things I nodded my head at and chuckled. thanks for the great insight! Thank you for being so patient with a culture here and being so open. The early saints went through a great deal of persecution. They were kicked out of their homes and experienced a lot of trauma along the way. Some Saints have been protective of their communities for generations. Some may still view outsiders has being unsafe. My family are converts to the church from California so when I moved to Utah we found this really strange, but after studying church history and psychology I understand a little bit more about why.

[@KurtK-t3w]

Jeff and Joy, you are pioneers here in Utah in your own way. Glad you’re here.

[@davidt_canucks]

I grew up in Utah, and moved across the country more than 25 years ago. Without hesitation, the thing I miss the most are the mountains. I recently visited my family and didn’t recognize much due to all the growth and construction over the 10 or so years since I last visited. I really enjoy your channel and applaud he goal of learning more about the Latter Day Saints religion, but also sharing your evangelical Protestant teachings. There is a lot of common ground between Christian religions, and I personally feel like far too much time is spent hung up on differences rather than coming together on our common grounds.

[@nightskymurals]

You guys are awesome, and I’d love to have you as neighbors! We’ve had non-LDS families near us, and their experiences vary-some find it easy, others don’t. I think both sides can do better, and you two are a great example of how to bridge that gap. You’ve taken the time to learn and appreciate the culture, and that makes all the difference. Some non-LDS avoid learning about the Church, maybe fearing conversion attempts, while some LDS hesitate to connect, worried about outside influences. Then there are the overzealous ones who ‘vomit’ church talk before even offering a plate of green jello (you know what I mean?!). Sometimes just being a kind, genuine neighbor is the most powerful way to connect. Both sides can be more understanding. It’s OK for non-LDS not to engage with the Church, and members shouldn’t take offense. Likewise, the Church is a big part of LDS life, so it’s natural for it to pop up in conversations. Whether we’re talking about the Church or the Dodgers winning the World Series, we can all just be normal people having normal conversations. A good LDS neighbor might invite a non-LDS family to join a church activity-at least give them the chance to say no. And non-LDS shouldn’t resent the invite; it’s just about being neighborly. Communication and respect go a long way. You two are doing it right-finding joy in Utah without trying to change it, making friends, and embracing the beauty of this state. I’ve been here 23 years, and it still hasn’t gotten old. At the end of the day, it’s all about being good neighbors. Thanks for setting such a great example!

[@dukeblockington1179]

We used to live in Utah, and that is what we liked. We live in Texas now and don't have mountains here. So glad you are enjoying Utah.

[@classicalgas8297]

We live in that neighborhood…it’s definitely a competition!😂😅 But it’s also because there is such close community, the competition gets very real. Football, Christmas, Fire works, Conference…any reason for decorating, celebrating, crafts and DIY’s!🤗

[@danwoodward1527]

Looks like this was filmed earlier in the fall. When I saw this was just posted, I thought it was going to be a video about the inversions. An unfortunate winter staple in the valley.

[@HelloSaints]

The inversion is ROUGH right now.

[@breannenoyes4297]

We put up our Christmas lights on Veterans day in November every year. Because 1- my husband has that day off and 2- it's not as cold or snowy as December is (however we haven't had much snow lately).

[@laurisherratt9875]

I grew up in NV, and spent time in AZ, but Holidays are fun here in UT. People love to dress up for Halloween and neighbors are kid friendly for trick or treat. But i prefer Christmas with the lights and music -- we have beautiful music across the state and i hope youve had a chance yo be a part of that. Welcome to utah!

[@kellherman]

It's always fun to see your own culture through someone else's eyes! I grew up in CA, but had so many relatives in UT and still do. I also served my mission there. I'm glad you are feeling welcomed! I am in the religious minority amongst my friends right now and it DOES feel lonely sometimes, even when the people are kind and accepting. I really enjoyed this video, thanks for posting! I think you nailed it with the Halloween thing. Really just a time to have fun and see through the eyes of a child with all that imagination.

[@zionmama150]

14:00 we set up Christmas light early so we don’t have to do it in the freezing cold weather. But also, this is new tradition since 2020. After Covid, everybody just wanted to have Christmas be the most important holiday and celebrate as part of the Thanksgiving holiday. so this is relatively new.

[@linnjensen7469]

I really enjoy you and your wifes presentations I live in probably the longest established mormon community in Canada which is Cardston Alberta

[@bronzebuffalo2819]

Thank you for sharing your perspectives.

[@michellespilman1570]

It's always good to be learning. Knowledge is one of the few things that is ours forever.

[@maryphipps2164]

Thanks for your wise and kind comments about Halloween 🎃 being family centric… AND… we just enjoy having FUN!! And because we do not drink, we get more fully into the fun of holidays!!

[@kristiefrost7149]

I think Evangelical/protestant is on the rise in Utah. I know you have gone to “The Well” I was actually blown away by the youth, and young adult attendance. It’s good to see that if people are loosing faith in the LDS church, they aren’t turning atheist, but finding relationship and community in another Christian church❤ so I hope you and your children are making friends and being included.

[@shanna-inspire-designs]

I have enjoyed your videos! I’m from Seattle and my husband is from Southern California, our family moved to St. George Ut. 11 years ago. I am a Latter Day Saint and have been all of my life. For me it was a huge culture shock when we moved here. I wasn’t used to seeing church buildings on almost every corner and we only had one Temple in Seattle and one in L.A. I do love it here, but I am definitely aware of how different it is in Utah compared to other States. I’m big in to decorating for Halloween and Christmas, but it’s something that I love doing and my kids love it. I did grow up in Funeral Homes and my parents knew how to throw some epic Halloween parties, I’m sure my love for Halloween stems from that! You two are awesome, I hope you keep making amazing videos and closing that religious/cultural gap❤❤❤

[@Mounty621]

Depending on who meets there and what the function is, the church meetinghouses are sometimes referred to as Ward buildings or Stake Centers. Thanks for giving your take on Utah and the Utah "culture." I grew up in Southern California and moved to North Idaho after 54 years. Last week, I went to Utah to visit my mom and family for Thanksgiving. It was almost like being back in Los Angeles County, just cleaner in most aspects. I have learned I am no longer a "city boy" and couldn't wait to get back to my North Idahome where we don't have to "keep up with the Joneses (Smiths).

[@calhutch3185]

Thank you, I enjoyed this video. It's not as cold at Halloween as it is at Christmas. I now live in AZ and decorate a lot more at Christmas here than I did there, weather doesn't bury or destroy all the decor. I was born in South Jordan, not far from the Oquirrh Mountain Temple you visited. I moved to CA for 10 years when I was 7 then have been in AZ most of my adult life. It is always interesting to go back and see just how fast it is growing. It was very interesting for me now to see this from a new perspective.

[@tonyawhaley1781]

My husband and I grew up in the Mormon church over50 years. Only 6 years ago we left the church and we now go to a Christian church called CLC Christian Life Center in Layton. We love it! It’s been an eye opening experience and I wish more Mormons would explore different religions so they get the experience and truly find out if the religion they’re in is the true one.

[@dappermuis5002]

As a member of the Church (in another country), when you related how you felt about been the minority in a religious area. A lot of it I can relate to. Including using things like halls and so on for church. I can remember many a time when by my gran in another town over we would have church in her Lounge (sittingroom). And yes even like us who have lived all our lives where we are, but are still the minority. For me there is so many things you have to think about before doing something. It can be some times tricky navigating some of it. Especially in my case it is things I should not be doing. I've watched others especially where it is part of the culture of their extended families and how it is demanded of them and they have to stand up and say no. It takes a lot of courage to do so. In some cultures here, a big one here is Labola (bride price). I can remember one member having to explain to his future father-in-law that it was something he couldn't do.

[@tarabates7088]

"To Mormons, with Love" by Chrisy Ross (2011) is book detailing another Christian family's transition to life in Utah. It's been a long time, but I remember thinking it was a really good introduction to Utah Mormon culture from an outsider's point of view. There were some good nuts-and-bolds advice about communicating (e.g., invite non-Mormons to ward social events -- and non-Mormons, don't be afraid to *go*; that's not proseletyzing, it's just how community things happen in those areas). And was appropriately critical in spots (e.g., we LDS don't do emotional intimacy well; in our idealistic / perfectionistic culture, folks who can be down-to-earth authentic in friendships are a breath of fresh air). A bit of a departure from theological conversations and looking more at the social side of things. Anyway, it's a book I'd recommend for new arrivals to Utah as well as for Utahns interested in a bit of a look in the mirror.

[@Ily779]

As a kid we decorated for Halloween and went all out. We spent time planning and working hard together to put things together in the front yard. We didn't like anything too creepy but it was just really fun for the neighborhood and connecting with one another. It helped start conversations with neighborhoods. I think the weather makes it a easier time to decorate. Christmas is also pretty big but harder with the cold weather and snow. So I think its very much about family connection.

[@stevewesthoff-zb3ny]

Hi, I very much enjoy your KZbin channel. I have an unusual story to share with you. I grew up in kansas city mostly in the 1960s and 1970s.. my mom was Catholic and my dad was Methodist. When they got married neither one would go to the others church. In 1954 they joined the lds church after a very stong spiritual experience, which they felt confirmed for them the truthfulness of the missionaries message. When they joined in kansas there were no wards or stakes in the kansas city area. I went to church with my Catholic grandparents, I did bible school with the Methodists and in high school and college in kansas city i tended to hang out with my baptist friends. We all got along fine. I moved to utah in 1984 and the biggest surprise to me was the Baptist s i met out here were not friendly. After a really weird experience a few years i got online trying to figure out why I found out they run an antimoron mission headquartered in salt lake City. It really caught me off guard. Even though there are now 25,000 lds members in the kansas city now i still visit my Baptist friends when I go to the Midwest. I really enjoy your friendly videos. Thank you

[@johnbaxter6494]

I think you are right about the Halloween thing. Competition amongst neighbors. Fun stuff

[@kathrinebeeder9892]

Bingo. It’s not about demons. It’s about a great night dressed up (I was always a princess/never a witch) and getting a pillowcase full of candy. Coming home and emptying it onto the rug and sorting it all out.

[@michaelheliotis5279]

You absolutely hit the nail on the head about Utah Halloween being so extra Jeff, it starts because it's a fun thing to get your family in on, and then it inevitably gets blown into ridiculous proportions because Utah is the worldwide capital of keeping up with the Joneses. Keeping up with the Joneses is actually really chronic in Utah, and although (like many things) it has roots in the LDS population, it has very much become part of general Utah culture as a whole.

[@InkDrinkers]

When you head west in the USA you’ll find several areas that celebrate pioneers. I lived in Oregon many years and we celebrated Ye Olde Fashion Festival in late July that was centered around the pioneers that trekked across the plains. We had parades and everything. It’s not just Utah. :)

[@marcischramm4067]

Welcome to Utah!! Glad you are here!!!!❤

[@TheDragonhawkKnights]

Hey pastor Jeff, I'll be performing at a church Christmas party this upcoming Wednesday, December 11, 2024 and you'd be totally welcome to come!! Dinner will be provided and you can bring the whole family. The event starts at 18:00 (that's 6pm) and if you're in salt lake or Utah county aka Provo / Orem it's an hour drive up the canyon. Oakley is 14 miles East of Park City 1224 W UT-32 OAKLEY, 84055. I would love it if you could come!! This is not one where you can show up fashionably late, come early to get a good seat. Dinner is at 6.

[@lindahennefer9564]

We have that same feeling. We try to be more mindful of others and not pushy. Remember friendships work both ways, if you shy back from wanting to know your neighbor,we will respect you and leave you alone. When i moved and started going to a different ward, it is just as much my responsibility to put my self forward as it is for the members to approach me. It works both ways