Church Higher Education Opportunities
As we become acquainted with truth in good sources of all kinds, we are better prepared to work in the world and serve in the kingdom of God. The Lord revealed, “The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth” (D&C 93:36). All truth comes from Heavenly Father and is designed for the good of His children. God wants us to educate our minds, improve our skills, and perfect our abilities so we can be a better influence for good in the world, provide for ourselves, our family, and those in need, and build God’s kingdom (see D&C 88:78–80).
All truth, whether religious or secular, is included in God’s plan for our salvation and happiness. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught, “Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection. And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life … he will have so much the advantage in the world to come” (D&C 130:18–19).
The Lord has given each of us gifts and encourages us to improve upon them and seek other gifts (see D&C 46:8, 11; 1 Corinthians 12:31). He has also instructed us to “seek learning, even by study and also by faith” (D&C 88:118). Church leaders encourage members to engage in efforts to increase literacy, learning, and skills training.
God’s modern-day prophets have encouraged both men and women to get as much education as they can. President Gordon B. Hinckley told young men to “work for an education. … Get all the training you can” (“Living Worthy of the Girl You Will Someday Marry,” Ensign or Liahona, May 1998). President Thomas S. Monson urged the young women of the Church to “pursue your education—if you are not already doing so or have not done so” (“Three Goals to Guide You,” Ensign or Liahona, November 2007).
BYU Memorable Moments
“Whether you attend a Church school or not, whether you attend college or not, do not think that you are too busy to study the gospel. Seminary, institute, or religion classes will provide balance to your life and add to your secular education by giving you another opportunity to spend time studying the scriptures and the teachings of the prophets and apostles. There are four outstanding new courses that I would encourage every young adult to look into and to attend.
“And don’t forget that classes and activities offered at your local institute or through your young single adult ward or stake will also be a place where you can be with other young men and young women and lift and inspire one another as you learn and grow spiritually and socialize together. . . . If you will set aside your cell phone and actually look around a little, you may even find your future companion at the institute” (M. Russell Ballard, “The Greatest Generation of Young Adults,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2015, 69).
