Intentional Fatherhood

Ancient and latter-day prophets have often testified of the importance of gospel-centered parenting. King Benjamin once taught, 鈥淏ut ye will teach them to walk in the ways of truth and soberness; ye will teach them to love one another, and to serve one another鈥 (Mosiah 4:15). President Russell M. Nelson has exclaimed, 鈥淣o other work transcends that of righteous, intentional parenting!鈥 In this episode Dr. Mark D. Ogletree, professor of Church history and doctrine, discusses a critical branch in gospel-centered parenting: intentional fatherhood. Professor Ogletree outlines the characteristics and attributes of intentional fatherhood鈥攑rinciples that apply to all parents and mentors鈥攂y examining Alma鈥檚 counsel with Helaman, Shiblon, and Corianton. Alma exemplifies a pattern of intentional behaviors as he testifies of the Savior and the truthfulness of the gospel, teaches his sons their ancestry, sets a righteous example and leaves the past behind him, offers individual counsel and praise to each son, calls his children to repentance, and teaches them true doctrine. Modern parents will be inspired on how to teach, direct, and interact with their children as they study the teachings of Alma 36鈥42.
Publications:
鈥淎lma as an Intentional Father鈥 (in Give Ear to My Words: Text and Context of Alma 36-42, Religious Studies Center, 2019)
(Ogletree, Pistorius, & Brinley, Covenant Communications, 2024)
(Cedar Fort, 2024)
(2023)
I Glory in My Jesus: Understanding Christ in the Book of Mormon (Religious Studies Center, 2023)
(2022)
(Deseret Book, 2022)
No Other Success: The Parenting Practices of David O. McKay (Religious Studies Center, 2017)
鈥淭he Fathering Practices of Joseph F. Smith鈥 (in Joseph F. Smith: Reflections on the Man and His Times, Religious Studies Center, 2013)
Preserving Families Podcast:
Stand By My Servants Podcast:
Personal Website:
Click to learn more about Mark Ogletree