News Release

Youth Complete Four-year Scripture Study Course

After four years of faith, hard work and determination, five Cook Island teenagers received diplomas from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently, for successfully completing the requirements of the Church's Seminary program.

Seminary is a worldwide scripture study program for high-school-aged youth. The purpose of Seminary, as stated on Seminary.lds.org, "is to help youth 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."

Director of Public Affairs for the Church in the Cook Islands, John Mateara, says that "successfully reaching their graduation goal has led to a deeper understanding and appreciation for the scriptures, and an increased knowledge of God, his son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost."

One of the most challenging requirements for graduation was memorizing and explaining one hundred scriptures during the four-year course.

"Waking up at 5:30am to attend early morning class was also a challenge," says Brother Mateara, "especially on cold, wet mornings when the desire to remain under the bed covers was more inviting. But with support from family, Church leaders and each other, they have attended at least seventy-five percent of their classes in order to qualify."

One graduating student from the Takitumu Branch, Patricia Taea, says that Seminary has taught her that "prayer is a very powerful tool."

At a graduation ceremony earlier this month, Patricia referred to her fellow graduates as "heroes" and encouraged current and potential students to overcome the odds and be "heroes of the Church."

In 2011, thirty five students from the five Latter-day Saint branches in the Cook Islands were enrolled in the Seminary program.

 

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