Brigham Young University is winning respect and recognition on a national and international stage. Thanks to its purpose which was decreed years ago by inspired prophets and disciples of God. James E. Talmage, who served as a member of the Twelve Apostles, shared the vision of “a truly great university [that is] absolutely... faithful to the gospel of Jesus Christ.” The English Learning Center as part of this huge community in Provo also partakes what will be discussed ahead. BYU and ELC students would benefit from learning about BYUs purpose, the system that focuses on the secular and the sacred, and the dangers of dogmatism and cynicism.
First, understanding the purpose of BYU will help you to consider the importance of the alliance of religious and professional aspirations that this school has. As it was first shared the vision, something expected, is the opportunity to cultivate pure religion, to give the richest learning experience, academic programs, and a competent ambiance. Because of this envisioned goal, the English Learning Center is also working toward a complete experience for all its students. The main purpose for this institution is to help students strengthen their intellect and heart “so they may be fully engaged as productive citizens of both society and the kingdom of God.” (Hafen, 1992). This indicates to ELC students that teachers and staff will do their best to fulfill this shared dream. The commitment of this University to achieve a specific goal is important to know because you will be part of this as well.
The second thing to understand is the sacred system managed in this school. It is necessary first to know what the sacred system means in BYU. Knowing that there is a model and purpose in God´s eternal perspective, which sometimes we cannot see with our limited eyes, is what leads to the sacred system. Understanding this will allow us to spiritually enjoy activities and participate in events offered by ELC and BYU staff. Thus, we fulfill the promise that Terry Warner made in 2008, warning that if you thought that you would be here just having a series of courses you have not fully comprehended God’s desire for “the flourishing of your whole soul for the glories He has in mind for you.” Thanks to the restored gospel in these last days, we prioritize the integration of a secular system into the broader sacred system because of the already vision mentioned before, and not vice versa. That´s why it is important to know what the sacred system means and how it is applied at school.
In addition, dogmatism and cynicism are two concepts to learn from. Dogmatism is the tendency to believe in our principles without considering others' opinions. Cynicism is the attitude of disbelief in the intentions of others. This is mentioned because some people misunderstand what the purpose of BYU is. Some of these people criticize the Church trying to demonstrate that liberal education is working in BYU doing these harmful critics, but the relationship doesn´t exist between liberal education and such criticism. Not everything is secular education, nor everything is religion. There is spiritual and intellectual freedom. As part of the help, Elder Hafen mentions that there is something better than what someone can explain; this can be an example of real people being faithful and competent in their areas. It could be Dallin H. Oaks for those who are in the Law area, or President Russell M. Nelson in the medical area. Despite different opinions or thoughts, that are allowed, it exists the opportunity to learn to see with both eyes open (secular and eternal eyes).
Finally in conclusion knowing the school´s aspiration, the divine system used here, and trying to overcome dogmatism and cynicism will be important as international or non-member ELC or BYU student. There is no intention in forcing students to believe or something, but there is always an invitation to avoid conflict with others and with your own opinions and feelings. Russell M. Nelson in one of his speeches mentioned that “conflict only arises from an incomplete knowledge of either science or religion—or both.” Taking science as secular education in this context is better explained that we can try to learn and be involved in both. For this reason, I would like to invite others to participate in activities to enjoy plenty of the purpose and promised blessings.
- Warner C. Terry, (2018), An Education of the Whole Soul https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/c-terry-warner/education-whole-soul/
- Nelson, Russell M., (2015) The Tie Between Science and Religion https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/russell-m-nelson/the-tie-between-science-and-religion/
- Hafen, Bruce C., (1992), The dream is ours to fulfill, file:///C:/Users/dypau/Downloads/AUC_1992_Hafen_EBYU1%20(1).pdf