Institute of Religion
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Institutes of Religion are organizations, usually situated near colleges or universities, which offer classes on the doctrine and scriptures of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Institutes primarily place a spiritual (not academic) emphasis on their religious subject matter. They are also centers of social activity for LDS young adults, offering them relaxation and recreation.
In areas with a large LDS population, there are often special-needs Institutes that serve adults who have mental or physical handicaps. These Institutes adapt their curricula to meet the students' needs.
Although Brigham Young University (BYU) is an LDS university, it has no Institute program; BYU students are required to take religion classes which are more advanced than the standard Institute curriculum.
[edit] Administration
Each institute has an Institute Director who is hired by the Church Educational System. An Institute Council consists of students who are appointed by the bishop (the equivalent of a pastor) of the local congregation, called a ward, in which the Institute is situated. An Institute Councilship is a non-paid, voluntary position.
