With a new school year fast approaching, many young adults face the rigors of higher education. And whether they are returning students or are going away to a college or university for the first time, there will likely be access to one of the Church's institutes of religion for relief from educational stresses and strains.
The formal objective statement for institute includes: "Our purpose is to help the youth and young adults understand and rely on the teachings and Atonement of Jesus Christ, qualify for the blessings of the temple, and prepare themselves, their families, and others for eternal life with their Father in Heaven."
The objective is met through religion classes, but institute goes far beyond that. To find out how, a great resource is the Church Educational System Web site, www.ldsces.org. It includes a short, entertaining multimedia presentation in which students speak of institute as a place to meet people, have fun and, of course, feel the Spirit.
The Web site is the place for students and/or their parents to go to find an institute near their college or university. The "Find an Institute" page includes a map of the United States and Canada. Clicking on a state or province brings up the location of all institutes there. Clicking on the name of the institute brings up its home page with its address and other useful information.
As those who have been involved know, institute can be a great social experience. There are parties, cookouts and other activities. There are opportunities to serve in the institute, the school and the community.
But the core spiritual experience comes in the classes and there is no cost for enrollment.
Chad Webb, administrator of Seminaries and Institutes of Religion, told the Church News that attending institute is valuable as a place where young adults can learn of the Savior and the restored gospel.
"I love institute," he said. "When I became a college student, I was on my own for the first time and institute was one of the greatest blessings in my life. It gave me a foundation of gospel understanding; it gave me a chance to feel the Holy Ghost and helped me to draw closer to my Father in Heaven."
He said that, even after missionary service, institute is a good place to deepen understanding of and appreciation for the gospel.
"Because I know the difference it makes," he said, "I would encourage everyone for whom it is available, to enroll and attend institute. Then, don't just go through the motions. Really participate in class and study the scriptures outside of class. Take the initiative to make it a wonderful experience. Invite your friends to join with you."
