Sean Penn models … civility?

Actor and activist Sean Penn can certainly never be faulted for the passion or sincerity of his convictions. Much the same could be said for entertainment commentator Sean Hannity. But civility is hardly a word often associated with either.

So I wanted to point out an important conversation between the two Seans that occurred last night on Fox News.

Hannity had learned that Penn was filming a documentary in Ukraine when the conflict began. And reached out for an interview, and while Penn started the interview by telling Hannity that he didn’t trust him. But Penn eventually discusses how as an American he has a luxury “to indulge my lack of trust, which it becomes a petty thing.” But that witnessing the resistance of the Ukrainian people he noted that they didn’t have that luxury.

The two merely agreed to disagree about the role President Biden has played in the conflict, and focused instead on their shared commitment to the good of the people of Ukraine. While it might be sad that a simple civil conversation is worthy of note, the reality is that this level of discourse is something which we would do well to aspire to more often. Perhaps it’s good we are gaining the perspective to see it.

On Key

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Welcome to July’s lineup of Public Square Media episodes.  The engaging perspectives of Scott and JC of Family Bro Evening, shed light on American politics and church history, meticulously examining the involvement of the LDS church in political affairs, they expound upon scriptural teachings on politics and violence, and bring illuminating conversation to the profound lessons to be gleaned from tragic events in early church history.  Over at Pop Culture on the Apricot Tree, join esteemed hosts Liz and Carl as they embark on an intellectual journey, delving into the realms of pop culture and its profound impact on our understanding of American history and church history. In an analysis of the filmed version of the musical Hamilton they traverse the nuanced representation of American historical figures through the lens of a diverse cast, provoking contemplation on the complex topic of revering flawed heroes. Additionally, their exploration of church history dismantles inaccuracies propagated in the true crime miniseries Under the Banner of Heaven, advocating for a more sophisticated and balanced approach to historical narratives. Next, prepare yourself for an enlightening conversation with esteemed academic, and Editor in Chief of Public Square Magazine, Danny Frost, who visits The Raising Family Podcast with a critically thoughtful analysis of Paragraph 8 of The Family: A Proclamation to the World, where he navigates intricate questions surrounding the decline of chastity in contemporary society, discusses fostering compassion without normalizing conflicting behaviors, and how we can advocate for political policies that align with our moral convictions. And finally, expanding the discourse, our hosts at Sit Down with Sky and Amanda, engage in a captivating examination of masculinity and fatherhood, contrasting societal definitions with divine perspectives, all while graciously addressing sincere questions. We hope this month’s curated episodes inform your thinking, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire civil discourse. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking content from Public Square Media in the months to come. Family Bro Evening:  Do You Have to Be Conservative to Be LDS? and The Battle of Fort Utah Pop Culture on the Apricot Tree: Filmed version of the musical Hamilton and Recent true crime miniseries Under the Banner of Heaven Raising Family: The Decline of Chastity, Moral Vocabulary and Aristotle Sit Down with Sky and Amanda: Divine Masculinity

Portrait Illustration of David Archuleta | Open Letter of Hope to David Archuleta | David Archuleta Sexuality & LGBT+ Latter-day Saints | Public Square Magazine

An Open Letter of Hope to David Archuleta

It’s natural to wonder about the future for those navigating the intersections of faith, sexuality, gender and identity. I believe that future can be filled with peace, happiness and love beyond even their fondest imagination.

How the Loss of Organized Religion is Harming our Youth

Kevin Singer recently wrote an article for Religion Unplugged where he discusses whether spirituality could have anything to do with the mental well-being of our Gen Z population. He shares new research showing a strong connection between religiosity and emotional and mental health well-being. While the percentage of those questioned who consider themselves religious or spiritual is quite high, the number of those who belong to any kind of religion is low.  Could the loss of meaning and community associated with organized religion be partially responsible for our present mental health crisis? Could organized religion be a key component to our well being? And how can church leaders, help the young recognize the mental health benefits of ongoing faithfulness?

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