And What Are You Thinking, Sister Bednar? | The Cost of Being a Mormon Apostle’s Wife
Hey guys, this is Dives with the Mormon News Roundup—talent on loan from Kolob. In this revealing interview, Susan and David Bednar discuss the moment David was called as a Mormon apostle by Gordon B. Hinckley. But while David got a lifetime promotion, Susan got a lifetime sentence of unpaid church service, with no say in the matter.
Susan recalls her initial reaction: *“I don’t think I can do this.”* And can you blame her? She was expected to follow David around the world, smile through endless stake conferences, and sacrifice any semblance of personal autonomy—all without being consulted. Yet, as we see, any hesitation or personal struggle is framed as a *lack of faith* rather than a valid concern.
Throughout the interview, Susan repeatedly defers to David before speaking, highlighting the deeply ingrained patriarchal structure of the LDS Church. Even when discussing whether they could inform their own children about this major life change, the decision was made for them by an 80-year-old prophet.
Join me as we break down this moment and what it reveals about the doctrine of obedience over self in Mormonism. Like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into LDS history and culture!
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