Church Follows Counsel to "Seek Ye Out Of the Best Books"

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormon) recently donated over twenty sets of books to universities, colleges and high schools throughout the three geographical areas of the Philippines.  The books which cover topics ranging from the history of the Church to one detailing how to bring families closer together were delivered to schools over the last several months.

Some of the book titles are: Jesus the Christ, Our Search for Happiness, Encyclopedia of Mormonism (6 vols.), Faith, The Essence of True Religion, Church History in the Fulness of Times, and Family Home Evening Resource Book. 

Members of the Church strongly believe the scripture that states, “Seek learning, even by study and also by faith” and to … "seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom. …” (D&C 88:118).   Latter-day Saint members believe the Lord has counseled His children to learn the Gospel and to gain an understanding “of things both in heaven and in the earth, . . . that [they] may be prepared in all things.” (D&C 88:78–80)

Church members work to educate their minds and their hands so they can succeed in their chosen fields. Education should be an influence for good and pursuit of it should distinguish us as people of integrity. A good education will prepare people for opportunities as they come, and will help all be an asset to their families, their faith, and their communities.

Understanding the need for good books and education, Church leaders as early as 1847, issued the following statement:  “It is very desirable that all the Saints should improve every opportunity of securing at least a copy of every valuable treatise on education—every book, map, chart, or diagram that may contain interesting, useful, and attractive matter, to gain the attention of children, and cause them to love to learn to read; and, also every historical, mathematical, philosophical, geographical, geological, astronomical, scientific, practical, and all other variety of useful and interesting writings, maps, &c."...(James R. Clark, comp., Messages of the First Presidency (Bookcraft, 1965), 1:331)

Since this program began in the Philippines over seven years ago, over 100 libraries have been the recipient of these sets of books. One librarian recently commented, "This gift will better help our students to understand the history of your Church here in the Philippines. We know of the great service you render to our people and hope these books will help us understand why you are so involved in our communities. Thank you!"

To further encourage reading and the need for an education, President Gordon B. Hinckley in March 2001, announced the creation of the Perpetual Education Fund to provide members with opportunities to gain education and training which lead to employment opportunities in their own countries. Young men and women who are living in certain areas outside of the United States may apply for the fund. The fund gives loans, with minimal interest, to the student to pay for tuition and books. After the student completes school, he or she will repay the loan over an eight year period. Members of the Church donate money to help the fund continue. This program continues to function in the Philippines.