The Distinguished Scholar in Residence honor recognizes Brother Welch’s prolific scholarship spanning 40 years in law, classical languages, biblical and scriptural commentary, and his contributions to Mormon studies and Mormon history. While at USC and the foundation, Brother Welch will be a guest lecturer in the classroom, participate in interfaith conversations with campus-based religious leaders, engage in research and writing, direct foundation initiatives and be a featured speaker at LDS devotionals and community gatherings in Southern California.

Opening the Heavens gathers in one place the key historical collections documenting divine manifestations from 1820 to 1844. Gathered here are the historical documents concerning the First Vision, the translation of the Book of Mormon, the restoration of the priesthood, the many visions of Joseph Smith, the outpouring of keys at the Kirtland Temple, and the mantle of Joseph Smith passing to Brigham Young. Each collection of documents is preceded by a chapter explaining the event.

"Phil Barlow is among the most accomplished and respected scholars of Mormonism working today, His rigorous mind and sensitive heart makes for quite a combination" says Spencer Fluhman, director of the Neal A. Maxwell Institute.

Shaun Micallef, Australian journalist, learns about Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon, attends general conference, and joins new missionaries for a missionary makeover.  He has to get a haircut and lose his beard.  He joins with missionaries who are assigned to Fijji where he is surprised to find they do much more than proselyte, they also help communities there.