Elder D. Todd Christofferson and Elder Clark G. Gilbert on thriving in and through the Church Educational System, with guest host Sheri Dew
Dec 10, 2024
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Elder D. Todd Christofferson, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and Elder Clark G. Gilbert, Church Commissioner of Education, dive deep into the Church Educational System's impact on spiritual and educational growth. They highlight the surge in youth participation in programs like seminary, emphasizing the need for safe environments to foster faith amidst modern distractions. The conversation also explores personal connections in education, the Holy Ghost’s guidance, and the church's commitment to support young adults on their spiritual journeys.
The Church Educational System emphasizes education as a religious responsibility, promoting both academic and spiritual growth among youth worldwide.
Despite declining interest in organized religion, the Church's education programs are witnessing increasing participation, offering a supportive community for young adults.
Deep dives
Commitment to Youth Education
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has made a significant commitment to youth education, emphasizing both spiritual and academic development. The church operates a comprehensive educational system that includes universities, seminaries, and online programs worldwide, engaging around one million students. This system prioritizes gaining education as a religious duty, with initiatives like BYU Pathway Worldwide reaching participants in almost 180 countries. The investment in education not only focuses on church members but also opens opportunities for non-members, facilitating a supportive and spiritually enriching learning environment.
Growing Interest Among Younger Generations
Despite a national trend of declining interest in organized religion among younger individuals, the Church's educational programs are witnessing growth in enrollment and participation. Recent statistics show record-high attendance in seminary and institute programs, indicating a strong commitment among youth to engage with their faith. The environments created by these educational systems offer safe havens for young people to practice their beliefs and build community. This paradox of growing engagement within a backdrop of general disinterest speaks to the spiritual desires of younger generations seeking connection and support in their faith journeys.
The Role of Spiritual Guidance
A defining trend within the church's educational framework is the emphasis on cultivating a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ among youth. Many young adults express a desire for spiritual guidance, seeking a supportive community where they can explore their faith. Initiatives to open up Institute classes at varying hours and adjust curriculum to be more relevant demonstrate a responsiveness to the needs of today's youth. These efforts contribute to a sense of belonging and spiritual growth, where participation in educational programs becomes a pathway to strengthening faith and understanding of gospel principles.
Addressing Modern Challenges
Today's youth face unique challenges, including issues related to mental health and overwhelming distractions from various sources. The church is proactively responding by providing resources and support through programs that emphasize emotional resilience and life skills, along with spiritual teachings. Leaders encourage involvement in relational activities and serving others as a way to build a strong, supportive community while addressing mental health concerns. This approach highlights an understanding of the struggles faced by young adults today, fostering a nurturing environment where they can thrive spiritually and temporally.
For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, education is a religious responsibility; as such, the Church Educational System (CES) has been built to pursue that responsibility and develop disciples of Jesus Christ. CES accomplishes this at larger institutions like Brigham Young University, electronically accessible programs like BYU–Pathway Worldwide, and gospel-centered curriculum found at seminary and institute classes wherever the Church is established, allowing students to thrive in and through their educational pursuits.
In this special episode of the Church News podcast, guest host Sheri Dew, executive vice president of Deseret Management Corp. and a former member of the Relief Society general presidency, sits down with Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Elder Clark G. Gilbert, General Authority Seventy and Church commissioner of education. Together, they discuss the Church Educational System and the Church's ongoing commitment to both spiritual and educational growth among the rising generation.
The Church News Podcast is a weekly podcast that invites listeners to make a journey of connection with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the globe. Host Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of The Church News, shares a unique view of the stories, events, and people who form this international faith. With each episode, listeners are asked to embark on a journey to learn from one another and ponder, “What do I know now?” because of the experience. Produced by KellieAnn Halvorsen.
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