BYU Studies

This is a book notice of Reid L. Neilson and Scott D. Marianno's biography of Andrew Jenson, written by Matthew B. Christensen. Restless Pilgrim: Andrew Jenson's Quest for Latter-day Saint History offers a detailed description of the life of this influential church historian. Though not necessarily a household name, Andrew Jenson is a key figure in LDS history, whose devotion and curiosity can be credited for preserving much of the knowledge we have today. CLICK HERE to Read the Book Notice Online

This essay by Laura Paulsen Howe explores the relationship between prolific LDS painter Minerva Teichert and her agent Alice Merrill Horne. Horne acted as a critical intersection between artists and church leadership in the mid 20th century. Teichert, known for painting pioneer and Book of Mormon scenes, as well as temple interiors, credits Horne a for a great deal of her success. Besides having a valuable business relationship, the two were close friends, as evidence by their correspondence. Howe explores many facets of these two brilliant women and how both together and apart they helped shape the LDS art world. CLICK HERE to read the article online and view corresponding artwork

This poem by Andrew Maxfield was a finalist in the 2022 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It explores the love and practices shared between generations in an effort to keep memory alive.

This a book review by Matthew B. Christensen of William Smith's The King Follett: A Biography. Christensen speaks highly of Smith's work. This compelling book provides a deep look at a landmark source of Latter-Day Saint theology. It is structured as a biography, an original and engaging approach to the genre. CLICK HERE to read the Book Review on our website

This essay by Richard D. Osguthorpe and Justin Collings describes President Spencer W. Kimball's “Second Century Address,” and how teachers can pursue its directive of teaching through "gospel methodology, concepts and insights." This means teachers must focus on both the "why" and "how." They must teach not only content that reflects gospel principles, but also through methods that reflect these goals, exhibiting Christ-like attributes. Gospel methodology must avoid "unrighteous dominion" that relies on indoctrination or conditioning as primary means of teaching. When correctly executed, learning experience serves as a way increase capacity to receive personal revelation and exercise agency. CLICK HERE to read the full article online.

This is a book review of Romney Burke's biography of influential second generation church leader Susa Young Gates was written by Dave Hall. It describes the importance of this biographical work, which filled an important gap in research. Burke drew from troves of primary source materials, including journals and letters. Hall praises Burke's willingness to go into more controversial topics and details, though points out certain topics that received either more or less focus than he would have chosen. CLICK HERE to read the book review online.

This essay by Michelle Forstrom was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Essay Contest. It explores the power of song and dance, with an emphasis on Bulgarian Folkdance. Hope can be found in devastating circumstances, especially with the help of familial love. CLICK HERE to read the full essay online.

This article by William G. Perez examines the value of introducing Latter-Day Saints to the multiple accounts of the first vision, a subject that had previously been lesser-known or even controversial. He explains the recently developed resources for members and educators within the church, and examines the reception of this new material via surveys to seminary teachers. His research demonstrates a compelling shift in understanding Joseph Smith's primary concern: how to achieve salvation and ensure his standing before God. This reframing of The First Vision as "more practical" resonates with many modern-day seekers of truth. Seminary teachers provide direct quotations on the value of teaching the multiple accounts and the different principles found within them, finding particular value within the categories of "Confidence, Revelation, and Redemption." CLICK HERE to read the full article online.

A poem by Erik Jacobsen. This poem was a finalist in the 2023 BYU Studies Poetry Contest. It explores the relief of forgiveness.

This personal essay by Tyler Johnson discusses temple preparation and making temple worship more meaningful. He addresses the discomfort and confusion some people feel when visiting the temple and ways in which some of this can be overcome, proposing a sort of "meta-approach" that may enhance the experience. Different approaches can be used to allow the temple to function as an experience rather than something to be solved and understood. Johnson also addresses the conflict people may feel over the "changes" temple ordinances have gone through. The temple is a place of learning. CLICK HERE to read the full article online.