Religion

The number of students that are not members on the BYU campus is small — about 1.5% of the student body. A sampling of BYU students with varying beliefs talked about their experiences at the Church-owned school.

The University of Notre Dame carried out a study in which researchers found that religious attendance rates are lower for individuals who are active on social media. Further, individuals who are active on social media are exposed to an influx of religious beliefs, ideas and practices, and report it is more acceptable to "pick and choose which religious beliefs they adopt, regardless of what their religious tradition teaches."

There was a point in his life when Zaki Mohamed questioned the truthfulness of his Muslim faith. Yearning to settle his uneasiness, the 21-year-old University of Utah student explored other religions and tried adopting new beliefs. It was through this soul-searching experience that he came to value his religious upbringing in the teachings of Islam. 

The Priesthood session of the upcoming April General Conference will be replaced with a general session for all youth and adult members, the First Presidency announced Nov. 22 in a letter to leaders from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

BYU sponsors opportunities for religious growth all over campus, with everything from Tuesday devotionals to required religion classes. Some students, however, integrate the gospel into their education beyond what the university requires.

Latter-day Saint BYU student Kwaku El and Evangelical Pastor Jeremy Howard met at Payson Bible Church on Friday, Nov. 8 to debate the materiality of God. Audience members representing both view points filled the chapel to listen and ask questions.