As we celebrate our National Independence this month
as well as the advent of Latter-day Saints into the Utah Valley, we might also
consider what we personally have done with our freedom, abilities and
opportunities.
We read in the scriptures that the glory of God is
intelligence, to seek learning and wisdom, to teach one another and to become
all that we can.
On the LDS.org website it explains, “Although “education”
often suggests formal schooling, Latter-day Saints recognize that it should
involve far more than that. They are encouraged to regard education as an
individual responsibility,[18] and they are taught that each person ought to
pursue education independently in the context of their own lives, learning in
the ways and to the extent that their circumstances allow.[19] While they view formal educational programs as
indispensible, Mormons also value individual reading, study, thought and
observation of many kinds. They affirm that a wealth of knowledge is available
to all those who will engage it. Finally, to Latter-day Saints, education is a
principle that spans eternity. Mormon scripture teaches that “whatever principle
of intelligence we attain unto in this life” will follow us in the hereafter (Doctrine and Covenants
130:18). Latter-day Saints also see in education a perpetual
enterprise; they anticipate and hope for a long course of learning that extends
indefinitely into the future.”
A new opportunity is being presented in our area to
further our knowledge and learning. The BYUIdaho Pathway program is being
introduce to our area this Fall. This low-cost educational program is designed
to give students the confidence, skills, and hope they need to succeed in
college by completing degrees and professional certificates. Students attend
local gatherings and institute instruction at nearly 200 sites across the world.
The classes in our area will be held on Thursday nights at the Overhulse
building in Olympia. Two groups will meet weekly ages 18-32 and 33 and
up.
If you are looking to go back to
College or start College - look into the BYU Pathway program
Visit : http://www.byui.edu/about/defining-aspects/pathway You
can apply now.
When I read the accounts of women in the early days
of the church, I marvel at their intellect, ambition and Faith! We are equally
capable.
“Women: We women need to do a better job of claiming
the power and direct access that comes from being a child of God and realizing
that power in the choices we make in our own lives. Ours is not a gospel of
limitation; it is a gospel of empowerment to get the education we want, pursue
our dreams, work in partnerships with spouses and friends to raise families,
contribute to our communities as our talents dictate, and seek out answers to
our deepest questions without intermediaries.”—“To Do the Business of the
Church: A Cooperative Paradigm for Examining Gendered Participation Within
Church Organizational Structure” by Neylan McBaine Aug 2, 2012 Fair
Mormon
It is my hope that we appreciate our independence
and opportunities. That we will make choices and pursue knowledge that will help
us realize our divine potential and go with us into eternity.
Love,
Sister Chris Jackson
First Counselor Centralia Stake Relief Society
