“I have Seminary.” But what is Seminary for the young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?

You might have heard this phrase, perhaps from a friend who belongs to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Maybe they said it when you asked why they looked a little drowsy, or when you tried to make plans after school. If this unfamiliar word has left you with questions, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s explore what Seminary is all about.

What Exactly is Seminary?

The Seminary program is a religious education class designed specifically for youth aged 14 to 18, offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s a four-year journey, with each year dedicated to an in-depth study of a specific book of holy scripture: the Old Testament, the New Testament, the Book of Mormon, and the Doctrine and Covenants.

Imagine hundreds of thousands of students and dedicated teachers meeting each weekday during the school year, all across the globe, to delve into the scriptures and learn more about the gospel of Jesus Christ. That’s Seminary!

Typically, these classes are held early in the morning before the school day begins. This might explain those sleepy eyes on your friend! While morning classes are common, some students and teachers choose to meet after school to better fit their schedules. Currently, over 380,000 seminary students in more than 140 countries participate in this program, and many of us can relate to those early morning wake-up calls!

So, why do young members aged 14-18, who are already balancing a full load of school classes, still dedicate time to Seminary? It’s more than just another class; it’s a vital part of their spiritual growth and development, offering unique insights and strength that complement their secular education.

Despite the early start, Seminary is truly a fun and exciting experience. In class, we often feel the comforting influence of the Holy Ghost, which inspires and motivates us to become the best versions of ourselves. Our instructors, who genuinely care about us, teach the holy scriptures in ways that foster a deeper understanding of the teachings of Jesus Christ and how they apply to our lives today.

Why Do Latter-day Saint Teens Go?

This is a question I get asked often, and our beloved prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, has given us a profound answer that resonates deeply: “The world around you is not equipped to provide the help you need to make it through this often-treacherous journey.”

Even with the challenge of waking up early or choosing Seminary over other after-school activities, students like me feel incredibly blessed by the opportunity to gain a knowledge of the gospel that strengthens us for the entire day. It truly acts as spiritual armor, helping us navigate the often-difficult teenage years, especially in a world filled with unique challenges and complexities.

For me, Seminary has been a beacon, teaching me that I can withstand the strong currents of adversity and truly become the best version of myself as a child of God. It’s the very reason I look forward to going every day. Learning from the scriptures in this dedicated setting gives me a broader vision of the world and equips me with principles to navigate life’s inevitable difficulties.

Here are some of the major reasons why Seminary is such a “go” for so many young people:

Get Ready to Dive Deep into the Scriptures

Think about reading a really good book on your own versus having a cool discussion about it with friends and a teacher who really knows their stuff. That’s what Seminary does for the scriptures! It’s not just about reading; it’s about really understanding God’s word in a way you can’t quite get on your own. We go through the scriptures line by line, talk about what they mean, and how they apply to our lives right now. It helps me see connections and insights I’d totally miss otherwise, and it just makes the scriptures come alive!

Build a Rock-Solid Relationship with Jesus Christ

This is probably the most important part for me. In Seminary, we spend so much time learning about Jesus Christ – His life, His teachings, His miracles, and especially His Atonement. When you consistently focus on Him every day, it’s impossible not to feel closer to Him. It’s like building a friendship; the more time you spend with someone and learn about them, the stronger your connection becomes. Seminary has genuinely helped me build a stronger personal relationship with the Savior and has deepened my testimony that He truly is our Redeemer and our best friend.

Find Answers and Guidance Just for You

Life as a teen can be… a lot, right? There are so many questions, so many decisions to make, and sometimes it feels overwhelming. What I’ve found in Seminary is that as we study the scriptures diligently and open our hearts, we can actually receive personal guidance and revelation. It’s not always a booming voice from heaven, but more like a quiet feeling or a clear thought that just makes sense. Through the influence of the Holy Ghost, I’ve learned to recognize those quiet promptings and find answers to my own personal questions and concerns. It’s truly amazing to feel God helping me directly.

Join a Super Supportive Community

Okay, but beyond all the spiritual stuff, Seminary is also just plain fun because of the people! It’s a place where you can connect with other teens who share similar values and are trying to live good lives. We laugh, we share our thoughts, we learn from each other, and we support one another. It feels like a safe space where you can be yourself, ask tough questions, and know that everyone there is trying to lift each other up. It’s awesome to know I’m not alone in this journey, and I’ve made some really great friends there.

Get Equipped for Whatever Life Throws at You

Let’s be real, the world isn’t always easy. There are temptations, challenges, and just a lot of noise out there. Seminary feels like my daily dose of spiritual armor. The timeless principles we learn from the scriptures offer practical guidance for everyday life and give me the moral strength to face whatever comes my way. It helps me make good choices, stand strong against peer pressure, and navigate difficult situations with confidence. It’s like a daily spiritual workout that prepares me to be resilient and thrive, no matter what.

Can You Participate in This Program?

Absolutely! Youth aged 14-18, whether you are a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or not, are warmly welcomed to join this wonderful program. It’s a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about the scriptures and growing spiritually.

You can simply ask your friends who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints about attending Seminary in your area. Or, to learn more and find a class near you, you can visit ChildrenandYouth.ChurchofJesusChrist.org/Seminary.

Seminary genuinely changes lives for the better. It has profoundly changed mine, and I know it has the potential to change yours too. Yes, it will require effort and dedication, but the wisdom and spiritual understanding you acquire through attending Seminary can truly become a guiding beacon throughout your life. As President Russell M. Nelson has beautifully taught, “Effort is required, but it is effort you will never, ever regret.”