“Seminary and Institute play a significant role in the urgent need to ‘gather’ an entire generation of Youth and young adults (Rising Generation)’’1
Our Saviour taught, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent”2
Therefore, Seminary and Institute-religious education helps students to know and love their Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, and helps Youth and Young Single Adults understand and rely on the Saviour’s teachings and Atonement. It also qualifies and prepares them and their families for the blessings of the temple, and for eternal life with their Father in Heaven.
The Church Educational System (CES) consists of various institutions that provide religious and secular education. The age group of 14 -18 attend Seminary and age group of 18- 30 attend Institute. It offers religious and spiritual education which helps them build a strong foundation. Elder Paul V. John taught, “The Youth and young single adults could be exposed and bombarded with information from many sources. With technology and devices, information is at our fingertips. There is no gauge as to the accuracy or quality of the information. Some of it is accurate, some are factual, but out of context, some consist of half-truths, and some are completely false.”3
From the scriptures, we learn,”Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”4
Prophet Russell M. Nelson said, “If you and I are to withstand the forthcoming perils and pressures, we each must have a firm spiritual foundation built upon the rock of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ.” 5 The Institute and Seminary are where the students will have a strong foundation and fortify themselves against evil and the world. Students will experience “Conversion, Relevance and Belonging”, which means the Youth & YSA will know, love and follow Jesus Christ. Learning will be meaningful and useful to personal circumstances, questions; needs and they will feel the sense of love of everyone, acceptance and friendship.
I know as we accept the invitation of attending the Seminary and Institute, we will be more able to discern truth from error with the power of the Holy Ghost. Our knowledge of the gospel will increase and faith will be strengthened. We will be able to make better choices, learn the doctrine that will make us happy, come to know Jesus Christ better, resist temptations and increase friendship. Seminary and Institute are the best places to prepare for a full-time mission.
I know by attending these religious classes, youth will lay a strong foundation where they will be converted and prepared to follow the Saviour throughout their lives and become his disciples—to serve missions, receive temple ordinances, raise righteous families, and build God’s kingdom in the world.
President Nelson emphasized, “Seminary and Institute will help you remodel your home to become a sanctuary of faith—a place where the gospel of Jesus Christ is taught, learned, lived, and loved. Wherever you live, that dwelling can become a place where true disciples of Jesus Christ reside. There you can seek refuge from the storms of life and increase your love of the Lord and for each other.” 6 During COVID-19, when normal life was disturbed in diverse ways many YSA’s and youth have registered and continued to attend the seminary and institute classes. Students have testified that they were able to learn about Jesus Christ, come closer to him, stay in tune with the Spirit, and discuss gospel truths with others and fellowship.
Make Institute and Seminary a Priority:
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; all these things shall be added unto you.” 7 We understand that we all are busy with many tasks and activities; however, the Lord, through his inspired leadership, has introduced various class options which provides more ways for the students to attend the classes such as online, independent, canvas, workshops, credit courses, scripture courses and many more.
By exercising faith in Jesus Christ, I promise you will surely find a way to attend the religious classes. President Monson taught that every Youth and YSA should make it a priority and balance activities to attend the Seminary and weekly Institute classes. We can continue to make small and simple sacrifices like waking up a little early, giving up little leisure time, balancing time effectively and less on devices so that you let these classes be part of you.
Let us follow President’s counsel and take part in the Gathering of
Israel at Seminary and Institute by:
• Set goals and develop the habit of daily scripture study.
• Make the time and priority to participate in Seminary and Institute.
• Not just attend but actively participate in class and faithfully follow through with any assignments given.
• Bring your friends and invite all.
Elder Peter .F.Meurs from Asia Presidency invited, “As Area Presidency, it is our desire that each of you will come closer unto Christ and experience the joy and peace that he alone can give you.” 8
I testify that the religious classes will help us love and build a relationship with Jesus Christ and lay a strong foundation for the rising generation, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen
NOTE
1. Brother Chad H Webb, “Seminary and Institute Annual Training Broadcast 2021”
2. John 17:3
3. Elder Paul .V. Johnson, “A Pattern for Learning Spiritual Things” August 2012 Seminaries and Institutes of Religion Satellite Broadcast.
4. Ephesians 6:13
5. President Russell M. Nelson, “The Temple and Your Spiritual Foundation” October 2021 General conference.
6. President Russell M. Nelson, “A Personal Invitation to Participate in Seminary and Institute”.
7. Matthew 6:33
8. Elder Peter F. Meurs, “Invitation to Participate in Seminary & Institute -Asia Area Presidency” Welcome to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, India page.