In Pacific Area meetinghouses and homes from Papeete in the east to Perth in the west, teenagers are meeting each school day, before their maths, geography, and other classes, to study the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Teenagers gather to participate in early morning Seminary, a scripture class, before school.
Teenagers in Melbourne gather in a family home to participate in early morning Seminary, a scripture class, before school. © 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.In hundreds of “Seminary” classes across Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, and the island nations and territories of the South Pacific, young people get out of bed a little earlier than many of their peers to read, listen, share, and laugh together.
A young member of The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints in New Zealand attends Seminary.
A young member of The Church of Jesus Christ of latter-day Saints in New Zealand attends Seminary, a scripture class often held before school. Some lessons involve activities to learn gospel principles.© 2025 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved.These classes, organised by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and taught by volunteers, are places of safety and inspiration.
While many Seminary students are members of the Church of Jesus Christ, this week, students are invited to bring along a friend with them.
Learn more about Seminary classes and students here, and some of the life topics that accompany the scripture lessons.
Asa Smibert, Pacific Area Director of Seminaries and Institute, said:
“Seminary is an incredible opportunity for youth to deepen their understanding of the scriptures and grow their personal relationship with Jesus Christ. As students gather each morning at 6:00 a.m. they are building a strong foundation of faith that will help guide them each day. Seminary is a time for youth to ask questions, deepen their faith, and feel the Spirit with friends. It is a place where they can take daily steps in their journey as disciples of Christ.”
Ohana, Leah, and Kayla, are three teenagers from New Zealand. Here's what they said about Seminary:
What do you love about going to Seminary?
Ohana: "I love going to learn more about the Lord and how much he loves us."
Leah: "I like going because I get to drive to Seminary."
Kayla: "I love going to seminary because I can learn more about the gospel through fun and interactive lessons."
What have you learned about the Saviour in Seminary?
Ohana: "I learnt that he loves us so much he gave us the word of wisdom."
Leah: "I learn about the sacrifices he made."
Kayla: "I learnt many things about the Saviour. One thing that is always true throughout the lessons is that he is always there and supporting us through every step we take."
Across the Tasman Sea, in Australia, Nikki, a teenager from Victoria, said, “I love going to Seminary. I can build my testimony and be with my friends.
Jonathan, also from Victoria, said, “There is no better place to be than in Seminary. It lifts me. It builds me. It strengthens me.
Another young Australian, Jared, said, “Seminary is a great place to learn more about the gospel of Jesus Christ and to build stronger relationships with friends.
Chloe, an Australian young adult who attends Institute, a weekly scripture-based class for those a little older, said, “I like coming to Institute because there is always something I learn that week. It is great to catch-up with everyone.
Alice added, “At Institute, you will see more miracles in your life and you will draw closer to Heavenly Father.
Another young adult, Jordan, said, “When you attend Institute you can really feel the Spirit and draw closer to God. You will be around others who will strengthen you.
“I love attending Institute because we talk about ways to improve and become better disciples of Jesus Christ,” another young participant in Institute, Ashley, said. “It helps me with everyday life, how to deal with worldly trials, and how to improve spiritually.
A leader in the young adult program in Australia, Jared, said, “There is a feeling in Institute that welcomes all.
This special feeling of unity and the blessing of having a temple nearby gives the congregation purpose and direction.”
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe in God the Father, His Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost. Learn more about Latter-day Saints beliefs here.