In preparation for Easter, this week’s All In podcast is an interview with my dear friend, Latter-day Saint composer and arranger Rob Gardner, whose sacred music oratorio Lamb of God is performed by choirs and orchestras throughout the world each year. Rob sat down with me to discuss what he learned by studying and writing music about the last week of the Savior’s mortal ministry through the eyes of those who walked with Him—those who loved Him personally. In the episode, Rob shares what he felt as he attempted to write a song about Peter’s feeling after the denial and explains what he recently felt about the Savior’s question to Mary at the tomb, “Woman, why weepest thou?” Rob also talks about choosing the right song for the apostle Thomas and why he believes Thomas didn’t really doubt.

As we celebrate Christmas, these inspiring quotes from the prophets will deepen our love and appreciation for the Savior, making the reason for the season that much sweeter.

When you hear the words family history, do you go into a coma? Believe me, until a few years ago, I could have matched my coma with yours any day.

Note: I am not a mental health professional, I am not a PhD in anything, and I do not pretend to be an expert in the fields of communication or psychology. All I am is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who has the privilege of hearing many of your insights, voices, and stories. I am grateful to all of those who have opened up to me through the years and confided their insights. It is these experiences I draw on for this article.

Patti Howard hails from Spokane, WA and is a disciple of Christ. She is a descendant of faithful Māori chiefs and LDS pioneers. Patti was born in Hamilton, New Zealand and grew up in Orem, UT. She has three brothers, three sons, three grandsons, and one terrific husband. Patti is grateful that the gospel of Jesus Christ has been a guide throughout her life. She served in the Georgia Atlanta mission in the 80's with many opportunities to serve since then and now is spending time on the road with her husband in a motorhome seeing the many beautiful places in the world (mainly the faces of grandsons) and playing pickleball when they can.

Toni Ragsdale was born in Chicago, Illinois. Most of her childhood was unpleasant, and she grew up in poverty. She has three biological children and also raised her sister's children when she became ill and passed away. She works full-time as Manager of the Customer Service Dept for Insure-Rite, State of Utah Insurance Verification Department. Toni is married to one of God's most fabulous creations, Rev. Jay Ragsdale. She and her husband are the founders of the Fill the Pot Ministry. The organization started in Pioneer Park 15 years ago with a captivated audience of 4 people; today, they feed an average of 421 people a week within our community. Toni has served on several community boards and projects. She Loves serving in the kingdom of God. She served many years at Calvary Baptist Church, where she grew, worshipped, and implemented and co-directed the Mentorship program for young women called G.R.A.C.E. She was the Director of the Women Ministry and Children's Church for nine years. Toni enjoys Partnering with other community organizations of all faiths, encouraging sisterhood, and mentoring women. In April 2019, she received the Humans Rights award by the Church Women United Organization. She has spoken at several women's events and events for The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints. She has started a Women's Ministry called TINT, which welcomes all faiths and builds a stronger relationship with Christ. She considers herself a sister-soldier, with a reputation of love and integrity, understanding, servant, and excellent leadership. She values growth, self-reflecting, and honesty. Her passion for God is non-negotiable; her love for her family is without measure; her love for her friends and community is without question. She thrives from waking up and, another day, a new opportunity to be used by God.

If the walls of the Kirtland Temple could speak, they would tell you what they saw that day—April 3, 1836—when the Living Christ appeared to the Prophet Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. Still, the temple stands as a witness of the reality of the Resurrection that we celebrate at Easter. Perhaps it is only fitting that the Kirtland Temple reopened under the Church’s ownership this week. On this week’s episode, Elder Kyle S. McKay shares how history and an understanding of our heritage strengthens our own faith.