Latter-day Saints Share Value of Education on Family Literacy Day

In countries where literacy is lower than average, there is much emphasis for families to prioritize education in their homes. Family Literacy Day takes place every January 27th to raise awareness of the significance of education and participate in literacy-related exercises as a family. A large number of schools, libraries, educational institutions, and other local gatherings have participated in this initiative since 1999.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has always made education a top priority among its members. The Church Educational System is the umbrella for all education programs of the Church. In this, there is much emphasis on the importance of continued secular and spiritual education. 

The Church offers religious classes known as "Institute" for young single adults ages 18 to 30 and "Seminary" for 15 to 18 years old.

Also, among the Church's sponsored schools are Brigham Young University, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, BYU Idaho, Ensign College (formerly LDS Business College), and BYU Pathway Worldwide.

However, with the changing times and the onslaught of the pandemic, there are difficulties for many people in seeking higher education. Some are deterred by over-the-top study loans and interests, while others are also separated from gaining university access because of financial difficulties. To curb this problem, President Gordon B. Hinckley, then president of the church in 2001 announced the creation of the Perpetual Education Fund to provide members with opportunities to gain education and training which then lead to employment opportunities in their own countries.

Additionally, one of the many educational programs offered by the Church, EnglishConnect aims to help individuals and families worldwide increase self-reliance and expand opportunities through learning English.

EnglishConnect helps learners develop English skills in an environment of fellowship and faith. Developing English proficiency can expand employment, education, service, and friendship.

The Welfare and Self Reliance Services (WSRS) Philippines have gathered a few testimonies from their recent EnglishConnect graduates to shed more inspiration and encouragement to those earnestly seeking ways to better their careers, increase their income, jumpstart their college education, and take on the path of disciple leadership.

"Ever since I enrolled in EnglishConnect 3, I have gained confidence in speaking English. I'm happy that I can learn English with the spiritual and social approach of the program. Even if I was the youngest in my class, I have never felt intimidated. My teachers and classmates have been open to listening to my ideas and opinions. We were surely learning much about reaching our potential. The experience was worthwhile and valuable to me."

Matt Andrew Escovidal – 11 years old, Quirino Province

"I think members should take this program because now is an excellent time to learn. It will open new doors for us, help us serve others, and allow us to understand the scriptures and words of the prophets more. English Connect 3 helps us learn in faith. I know Heavenly Father would be pleased because we followed His commandment to "...seek learning, even by study and also by faith." (D&C 88:118). With what I learned from EnglishConnect, I plan to teach basic English to less fortunate individuals who can't afford to learn English."

Hazelyn Torres - 16yrs old, Davao

"I have always found it challenging to communicate with people using English. During conferences, I found it hard to understand the speakers and connect with others. As a teenager, I believe learning English is essential. EnglishConnect helped me have the confidence to speak English without the fear of making mistakes. My EnglishConnect family has helped me in so many ways to grow not only spiritually but also in all aspects of my life. I plan to apply everything I learned in English connect three by sharing what I learned with other people and being an excellent example to those around me."

Ivy Elera Salarda - 17, Quezon, Malaybalay District

"English Connect 3 has helped me improve in so many aspects of the English language. At first, I took it lightly since I always thought of myself as already "good enough" in anything related to English. English Connect 3 has not only taught me English; it has taught me about responsibility, commitment, and how to be an agentive learner. It has even made me have way more confidence than before, and I'm thrilled and proud of it. EnglishConnect 3 has also brought me closer to our Heavenly Father. At times, I would  either have a hard time doing the units or feel too proud and high when it comes to English; whenever I felt these things, I would take a short, brief moment to ask for guidance from Him. Honestly, if I hadn't taken the time to pray to Him about my EnglishConnect 3, I wouldn't have improved as much as I have right now."

Dinah Lourence Boiser - 15, Bacolod City

The first student to complete the entire EC3 program

To learn more about the program, visit EnglishConnect.