Federal MP Alan Tudge, recently spoke to over one hundred young Mormons in Victoria about education and its potential for helping the wider community. At the invitation of Church leaders, youth and young adults from the eastern suburbs of Melbourne convened for the exposition on schooling and employment.
“Young Latter-day Saints have had an influence in society, largely because they have expressed educated opinions,” said Mr. Tudge to the audience ages 16 to 30. “You are capable of that same and even greater influence as you pursue your schooling and become well-employed.”
| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
“The Latter-day Saint Church is known for its service,” commented the MP. “I sincerely hope you will become likewise involved in community affairs. The more education you have, the more you can do that.”
Courtney Vink, one of the attendees, commented on the MP’s remarks. “Mr. Tudge impressed on me the role we have in society as Christians—to step up and make our values known in a well-informed way.”
Professionals in the fields of law, plumbing, engineering, business, education, science, law enforcements, disability advocacy, and cuisine also addressed the gathering. The speakers described their career journeys and fielded questions from the audience.
Damon Page, President of the Maroondah Stake (diocese), counselled the attendees to “never give up on becoming educated and finding employment that provides adequate income and allows for righteous priorities.”
Youth in the Church are taught the importance of education from their early years.
Most of the listeners well remember Church President Gordon B. Hinckley boldly re-emphasizing the critical need for today’s youth to get all the education possible.
“Life has become complex and competitive,” President Hinckley said . “You will be expected to put forth great effort...to make your way. Sacrifice anything that is needed...to qualify yourselves to do the work of the world. That world will ...pay you what it thinks you are worth, and your worth will increase as you gain education.”