President Henry B. Eyring stated:
“There should never be a conscious choice to let the not be obvious at first, nor may it ever be clear in mortal life. But remember, you are interested in education not for life, but for eternal life” (Education for Real Life [CES fireside for young adults, May 6, 2001], 3).
What an important statement. As Mormons, we believe strongly in education; we believe strongly in scripture study. Both are pathways towards pleasing our Father in Heaven and His son Jesus Christ. These activities help us to emulate them.
One excellent scripture study resource (free and at the same time very dynamic) is the LDSCES.org website. This site houses many links to study guides, manuals, church firesides, and higher education information.
As stated at the site:
“The objective of religious education in the Church Educational System is to assist the individual, the family, and priesthood leaders in accomplishing the mission of the Church by—
1. Teaching students the gospel of Jesus Christ as found in the standard works and the words of the prophets.
2. Teaching students by precept and example so they will be encouraged, assisted, and protected as they strive to live the gospel of Jesus Christ.
3. Providing a spiritual and social climate where students can associate together.
4. Preparing young people for effective Church service (Teaching the Gospel: A Handbook for CES Teachers and Leaders [1994], 3).”
One of the ways the Church follows these objectives is by creating sites like the LDSCES.org website. I invite you to explore it. When you visit the site, you’ll see several options present themselves before you.
At the top of the screen, in a column on the left, will be several choices:
Seminary
Institute
Teachers/Administrators
LDS.org
Under the Seminary option, you’ll find may helpful scripture study resources, such as study guides, reaching charts, scripture mastery aids, bookmarks, and free downloads. Even though the actual seminary classes taught throughout the world are for high school students (whether at the local high school or in early morning locations), their learning materials are for everyone. I invite you to explore those resources here.
Under the Institute option, you’ll also find additional scripture study materials that are quite helpful for when you want to understand the scriptures on a deeper level. You can study at your own pace by clicking and exploring this link.
And under the LDS.org option on the first screen, you’ll go straight to the heart of the Church’s website, with many rich resources to benefit your growth and knowledge in Christ.
Finally, make sure to explore the “Fireside” links where you’ll find more links to firesides where speakers have shared enlightening and inspired messages about the Savior and how to live His teachings and thereby receive the joy He desires to give you.
Yes, indeed, as Mormons, we believe strongly in education; we believe strongly in scripture study. Both are pathways towards pleasing our Father in Heaven and His son Jesus Christ and in emulating them. And the LDSCES.org website is an amazing tool to help do just that!
