Nathan Porter is the new S&I Seminary Principal. He and his family are happy to be here and he is excited to teach about the life of Jesus. The theme for this year is John 13:15 and the study will be the New Testament.
Seminary Kickoff was held August 14, 2016 where some of the Seminary Council members spoke concerning the importance of Seminary. Shalee Hafen shared her testimony of Seminary and asked the youth to invite their friends. Emily Leavitt spoke concerning her thoughts on how important the life and atonement of Jesus Christ is to the world. Jace Haviland said it was more important to walk as the Savior did than where the Savior walked. Reid Jensen reminded the youth that their level of participation in the class lessons would transform it into more than just a class. The council asked the students to read the lesson beforehand and come prepared to add their input which would in turn invite the Spirit. The council is willing to work hard and they'll need everyone's help.
Brother Porter informed the students and parents that this was a group effort. He is there to teach, the youth are there to learn and the parents are there to encourage and engage their youth in conversation. "Don't let seminary end when they walk out...ask questions of your children, learn from them and encourage discussion."
"I promise we will open our scriptures this year" Brother Porter emphatically stated. Seminary will be using the Doctrinal Mastery this year, the students will be memorizing the doctrine of the church.
"Brother Porter will be an excellent seminary teacher" President Anderson told the audience. "Seminary is an important tool but there's more. Scripture will teach you but you must come to church "
President Anderson announced the names of seminary teachers as Brother Darrell Garlick in Littlefield, with Sister Kris Bingham and Sister Janet Dodenbier in Mesquite. Sister Jamie Jones will be a substitute teacher when needed. He closed by saying "What was good enough 5 years ago is not enough for the youth of today. Satan watches for the caliber of the spirits coming into morality and he knows the end is drawing near."
Brother Nathan Porter with his wife, Tiffany and son Hudson.
"Young people, I ask you to participate in Seminary. Study your scriptures daily. Listen to your teachers carefully. Apply what you learn prayerfully."
President Thomas S. Monson August 12, 2011