LDS service missionaries confront a whole new challenge: immigration | Episode 456
Summary
Scott and Linda Howell, former Utah state senators, discuss their 12.5-year service as inner-city missionaries in Salt Lake City. They share stories of helping vulnerable members with housing, mental health, and legal issues, while addressing recent church policy changes regarding immigration assistance. The couple also reflects on the importance of accountability in charitable programs and the need for members to embrace redemption and kindness in their communities.
Topics discussed
Intro, sponsors, and show welcome
Introducing guests Scott and Linda Howell
How they were called to serve as missionaries
Working together and their assignment in Salt Lake
Challenges in the ward and helping a member with teeth
The joy of helping a man get dentures
What service missionaries do and helping a non-member
Helping a former inmate with a car accident
Policy changes regarding immigration assistance
The Self-Reliance Plan and financial accountability
Clarifying the role of proselytizing
Helping refugees and navigating cultural differences
Political climate and criticism of administration
Addressing mental health and substance abuse
Recruiting high-quality missionaries and zone leadership
Success stories with education and employment
Intertwining political advocacy with service work
The need for accountability in social services
Living the gospel and the importance of redemption
How the experience changed their views and recommendations
Closing remarks and sign-off
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