As Mormons we believe the glory of God is intelligence. In D&C 93:36 we read:

“The glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth.”

As such, education is an important component for those who belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

President Gordon B Hinckley mormonThe Prophet and President of our church, President Gordon B. Hinckley, has said regarding the universities the church sponsors:

“People ask why we sponsor such a large and costly institution that is basically concerned with secular education. But we shall keep these as flagships testifying to the great and earnest commitment of this Church to education, both ecclesiastical and secular, and while doing so prove to the world that excellent secular learning can be gained in an environment of religious faith” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “Why We Do Some of the Things We Do,” Ensign, Nov 1999).

Several of the universities the Church sponsors are BYU, BYU-Idaho, BYU-Hawaii, and the LDS Business College. As Mormons, we are very interested in not only being educated ourselves, but also to stimulate and encourage education amongst our youth and others.

An excellent website to help youth understand the importance of a good education is BeSmart.com. This site walks a young person through the essential nature of high school preparation, how to approach ACT/SAT testing, and includes help with career exploration. There are also sections at the site regarding how to finance college, in addition to help for those who are interested in long-distance learning, called Independent Study.

One of the church’s delightful programs that also aids young people in keeping a wholesome outlook in life (and striving to better themselves) is a program called “Especially for Youth.” You can find out more about that great summer camp by clicking here. For example, the theme for the 2008 camps is “Steady & Sure”, based off the scripture found in the Book of Mormon: “Be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works” (Mosiah 5:15).

Another indicator that Mormons value education is the Church’s “Perpetual Education Fund”. Its stated purpose according to the PEF website is: “This resource is for faithful young members of the Church who wish to improve their education, find a good job, and better serve their family, the Church and their community.”

The PEF program began in 2001 for individuals throughout the world who desired to seek education, but could not afford it. The inspiration behind the program is beautiful and I invite you to learn more by clicking here.

Again, We seek to better ourselves and the world we live in as a manifestation of our love for Him and our Heavenly Father.

About Cindy B

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