There is so much of the radical, Marxist agenda on campuses in this country. An institution that teaches truth, not propaganda is needed more than ever! So many qualified people want to teach at BYU; let the indoctrinated professors go so that the cycle does not continue. Parents should be able to trust that their children will be strengthened in their testimonies and not led astray by the people who's salaries are paid for by them and by faithful Saints tithing dollars!
Milton NodackerAugust 26, 2021
One of the things that attracted me to the Church as a investigator is the principle that the founding documents of the United States, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, are considered inspired by God and held sacred by this Church. I have always felt a deep reverence for these documents and the divine principles enumerated in them. I was distressed when the latest revision to the Handbook ripped out and shredded the Second Article of the Bill of Rights, apparently in the service of "political correctness".
I found Elder Holland's reference to the building of the Nauvoo Temple requiring trowels and muskets instructive. Under current Church policy the builders would have had to defend the construction with trowels alone, since the muskets would have been prohibited on a Church property.
Nihla W. JuddAugust 25, 2021
It is so refreshing to our heavy laden souls to hear truth shouted from the page - finally. Thank you, Elder Holland, for loudly proclaiming the truth when we thought hope was sinking rapidly below the surface.
I have grandchildren attending BYU, and as a result, their stance on correct principles is not at all what we thought it would be when we trustingly sent them there.
Something has gone awry.
The influence of a "teacher" is so all encompassing that he who bears that title must sense the responsibility that goes along with it. "Rabbi" / teacher. We must emulate and follow the teachings of Christ so that we do not offend "the little ones" and bear the consequences of leading them astray from revealed truth.
Thank you for standing tall and proclaiming loudly true and correct principles. Thanks for restoring hope in the hearts of parents who have been devastated of late. We are so very grateful for your clear, concise, loud exclamations on weighty matters i.e., the spiritual lives of our posterity who were trustingly placed in the arms of Brigham Young University. Thanks for calling out the wolves in sheep's clothing.
God bless your for it - "Do we not have a prophet in the land?"
Let's return Brigham Young University to its greatness. "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
We love you again and again.
Jill PalmerAugust 25, 2021
I am tremendously grateful for my years as a student at BYU,1968-75. Each of my teachers in many fields helped my testimony of the gospel increase. In particular, my first Book of Mormon class was an eye-opener to me with warnings about social and other issues to beware of in the latter-days. To be forewarned is to be forearmed. I hope that Elder Holland's magnificent talk is taken to heart by all.
brian stubbsAugust 25, 2021
Three cheers for Elder Holland! Make that 27 cheers!! Some of my children and grandchildren have said similarly, that some BYU professors push worldly philosophy and not even mingled with much scripture. Especially irksome are how many BYU professors seem to think the Book of Mormon is "inspired fiction" or less and did not happen in ancient America, counter to evidences like the discovery of Nahom written in stone, no less, and hundreds of other such supports. Those into such wayward non-wisdom need to keep those opinions to themselves, be retired early, or fired. And that question should be posed to every future prospective professor, as well.
Jan RifeAugust 25, 2021
I love Elder Holland. My mom worked with him when she taught seminary in Seattle, he has slways been my favotite. 4 out of 5 of my siblings went there in the 70s. My son graduated 10 years ago and I was so shocked at how it has changed. It's about time for this speach and I'm glad it came from my favorite. I hope all the professors that teach contrary to the gospel principles are let go.
Please return it to the Lord's university
Barbie MeyersAugust 25, 2021
Thank you to Elder Holland for addressing the issues found within BYU. I have found much coming from there very discomforting. I hope and pray that the faculty will realign themselves with truth and light. I hope and pray that the student body will seek for truth and light.
PamAugust 25, 2021
I am so grateful for Elder Holland's speech. I attended BYU in the 70s, and returned to Provo recently after having lived in other places in between. I was surprised at the changes I have seen at BYU since returning. I have been disappointed in hearing about radical ideas of some faculty members at BYU, about very vocal promotion of alternate lifestyles. There was a house on my street occupied by several members of the football team, who had inappropriate parties every weekend involving alcohol, tobacco, and likely other substances. I see athletes for BYU and other students whose dress and hair do not reflect the honor code. I am so glad that Elder Holland addressed some of the issues affecting BYU at this time. I hope BYU will uphold its unique mission and not yield to the voices that are pulling it away from that mission.
Maryann TaylorAugust 24, 2021
I just read this address today and I am so glad you also posted it on Meridian. Elder Holland makes it clear that BYU professors have a sacred trust to teach according to the light and truth of the gospel. I am so happy Elder Holland gave this address at a time when there is confusion for some about the subject of same-sex relationships. I think my favorite part of the address was his comment that: "..Christ never ONCE withheld his love from anyone, but he also never once said to anyone, 'Because I love you, you are exempt from keeping my commandments.' " I think that says it all.
Kelly P.August 24, 2021
My own son's testimony was shredded and shattered by the teachings and opinions of an admired BYU professor over 26 years ago. My son, a faithful returned missionary, was so proud and thankful to attend BYU, where he earned his Bachelor's degree. We were thankful that he could attend BYU, and entrusted him to that great institution. But we never expected him to be spiritually wounded by a professor and mentor who should have been strengthening his faith and building his testimony. I hope the faculty and leaders of BYU will listen to Elder Holland, and work hard to stay within the light and truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ and teach them. They have an extremely important responsibility to do so.
R McCaskillAugust 24, 2021
I graduate from BYU and was impressed and loved how it was not only a secular institution but also a religious one. I enjoyed my gospel doctrine classes and know the mission of BYU was inspired. I had to go through an interview with my Bishop and agree to uphold the standard of the church, I hope the professors are asked to do the same and are held accountable if they don't. If I didn't uphold those standards I risked getting expelled, I would expect the professors should be held to the same criteria.
CASAugust 24, 2021
As a BYU graduate of many years ago and avid BYU supporter, I honestly think it is time to play "hardball" with these issues! I propose that any teacher/professor violating the high standards of teaching at Brigham Young University which are outside the boundaries set by the Church of Latter-day Saints and the teachings therein, should be put on academic probation with a follow-up interview by an Apostle in person. The claims against that person should be clear and substantiated by students or faculty. (The video clip by a Lehi High student the first week of school of the offense he/she saw and heard from a teacher was conclusive in the dismissal of that offending teacher!). If the concerns are substantiated, the instructor should be terminated immediately! Period! This is MY university also, and I think high standards of teaching should be expected and demanded!
Laurin RackhamAugust 24, 2021
Yesterday my daughter and I 'intstalled' her gay son and his sister in the dorms at the Y. Both have ever been treated with the utmost courtesy and dignity at the Y. They are some of my 32 offspring (and grand-offspring) who have been there. Afterwards, shopping for food for them, my daughter met Sister Susan Easton Black, also shopping, and expressed profound gratitude for her teaching there. "That class is where I gained my testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith." That you Elder Doctor Holland and Sister Doctor Black so very much for all you do for all of us.
Dennis HorneAugust 24, 2021
This was a superb and inspired address from an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. I see from online content that many are taking issue with it and therefore showing where they stand. Some are slandering this Special Witness who told the truth he knew some would find upsetting or unpopular or contrary to their personal views. Such is Elder Holland's calling and duty before God.
I entertain slight hope that the offending parties at BYU that Elder Holland was speaking to will correct their ways. These people, as Elder Holland noted, are activists and advocates; hence the "tragic" friendly fire aimed at the Brethren/Church he spoke of. No matter the philosophies of the world, the scriptures and doctrine will not change and BYU needs to harmonize or either cease to exist or something else drastic--as Elder Holland, Pres. Nelson, and Pres. Oaks were all quoted as saying.
We must love all (including LGBT) but NOT "condone" the sinful behavior or activism.
John R CarpenterAugust 24, 2021
"... After having served a full-time mission and marrying her husband in the temple, a friend of mine recently left the church. In her graduation statement on a social media post, she credited [such and such a BYU program and its faculty] with the radicalizing of her attitudes and the destruction of her faith.’”
I know of 3 people who have left the Church because of what they learned at BYU - including my daughter.
Sonya WashburnAugust 24, 2021
Thank you Elder Holland for addressing this issue. I too have felt to stop contributing to BYU if its professors are going to teach contrary to gospel principles. This has been going on for quite some time and there should be a way to weed out these unbelieving professors that are doing damage to our trusting children.
PatriceAugust 24, 2021
So glad that someone has said something. Bravo to Elder Holland. He is able to put his thoughts across in such a beautiful & spiritual way. What's been going on at BYU for the past several years and how it has accelerated to such a rapid pace is scary, to say the least.
SfischAugust 24, 2021
Amen and amen! Philosophies of men-so thankful for a living oracle to guide us in our fallen world. I love Elder Holland-he proclaimed the truth and corrected the mistakes in a way/manner that most only hope they could.
Elizabeth SAugust 24, 2021
Thanks for covering this talk in detail. I've written the Board of Trustees and admin at BYU 3 times in the past year about particular curricula and faculty attitudes at BYU. I am glad for this evidence that they are listening. Now I guess we'll see if this makes a difference with the boots on the ground.
Paralee M. EckmanAugust 24, 2021
I have known Elder Jeffrey R. Holland since he was a child in the same ward I grew up in. We met and visited briefly several times as he visited his beloved St. George. We treasure his wisdom and insight, and I am so glad he gave this address at BYU! I have heard from people who have had children who lost their testimony at BYU, and that is a tragedy! When a student attends BYU, you expect them to be strengthened in Gospel principles, and not hear messages against Church teachings. I went to BYU in 1954-55, and it was very Church centered. It needs to be now, and in the future!
ShaunaAugust 24, 2021
thank you Elder Holland. I love you and you will always be "President Holland" to me, as you were President of BYU when I was there. I thank God for you and your passion for BYU. I had a daughter there last year who is soon leaving on a mission and deliver another daughter there tomorrow. I have attended 2 other private universities for graduate training and there is nothing like BYU. But I am also aware that not all faculty are on board completely with the Gospel, and in fact, in receiving a masters degree there, many years ago, was also indoctrinated, and believed for a time, some ideologies that are not in complete harmony with the Gospel. Students can get the philosophies of the world anywhere, but BYU is one of the few places where they can learn those philosophies through the lens of the gospel. It seems to me that the Lord has a vested and continuing interest in education--i.e. D&C 88 and 93, but it also seems striking to me, that 4 of 15 current apostles have been either Presidents of BYU-I or BYU. I believe you when you say that the Lord planted a love for BYU early on in your heart, and I am so grateful that the flame is still burning. May God continue to lead this great university to be a "house of learning and a house of faith."
P SkousenAugust 24, 2021
In my life I attended BYU and helped my husband through this magnificent university. I have always been grateful for that opportunity. My brother and my youngest daughter graduated from BYU and my middle daughter graduated from BYU-I. The standards and wisdom received from the remarkable professors who stood for truth and righteousness was always a testimony to the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to myself and to my family. Thank you Elder Holland for your perfect words of wisdom.
chris howellAugust 24, 2021
Thank you for sharing. As a parent with three BYU grads and son in law part of the faculty, I pray that Elder Holland's admonishment will be heeded without reservation.
JustinAugust 24, 2021
Thank you for sharing this message. Too many are swept along with "politically correct" messages, and forget the love of our Heavenly Father and His desire for happiness and love for all. Sometimes that means taking a stand, and aligning yourself with Him. His ways are not our ways.
LindaAugust 24, 2021
BYU needs to "let go" those instructors who teach this trash to students. As professors of BYU, they are actually going against the code of BYU just as much as any student who dresses or acts inappropriately.
SamAugust 24, 2021
I think there is another division that I do often read with Deseret News. Trump has caused great division almost Anarchy. Many in the Church feel you must be for Trump or your not going to the Celestial Kingdom. That you must be a Republican. I have concerns about both parties. Please address this. Our country is in a major pandemic and many thousands have needlessly died because of the word , Hoax. Please address this! Thank you
Colleen MoellerAugust 24, 2021
I love this article, and am so glad that Elder Holland spoke to this point. Having attended BYU a few decades ago, and having watched it closely as a place to recommend to my own children, I have been disappointed in more recent years from the public messages that seem to come from faculty and students. Thank you Elder Holland for making it clear that BYU, it’s faculty and students should always be loyal first to gospel principles and the messages of the restored gospel.
Comments | Return to Story
Sandy DildineAugust 26, 2021
There is so much of the radical, Marxist agenda on campuses in this country. An institution that teaches truth, not propaganda is needed more than ever! So many qualified people want to teach at BYU; let the indoctrinated professors go so that the cycle does not continue. Parents should be able to trust that their children will be strengthened in their testimonies and not led astray by the people who's salaries are paid for by them and by faithful Saints tithing dollars!
Milton NodackerAugust 26, 2021
One of the things that attracted me to the Church as a investigator is the principle that the founding documents of the United States, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, are considered inspired by God and held sacred by this Church. I have always felt a deep reverence for these documents and the divine principles enumerated in them. I was distressed when the latest revision to the Handbook ripped out and shredded the Second Article of the Bill of Rights, apparently in the service of "political correctness". I found Elder Holland's reference to the building of the Nauvoo Temple requiring trowels and muskets instructive. Under current Church policy the builders would have had to defend the construction with trowels alone, since the muskets would have been prohibited on a Church property.
Nihla W. JuddAugust 25, 2021
It is so refreshing to our heavy laden souls to hear truth shouted from the page - finally. Thank you, Elder Holland, for loudly proclaiming the truth when we thought hope was sinking rapidly below the surface. I have grandchildren attending BYU, and as a result, their stance on correct principles is not at all what we thought it would be when we trustingly sent them there. Something has gone awry. The influence of a "teacher" is so all encompassing that he who bears that title must sense the responsibility that goes along with it. "Rabbi" / teacher. We must emulate and follow the teachings of Christ so that we do not offend "the little ones" and bear the consequences of leading them astray from revealed truth. Thank you for standing tall and proclaiming loudly true and correct principles. Thanks for restoring hope in the hearts of parents who have been devastated of late. We are so very grateful for your clear, concise, loud exclamations on weighty matters i.e., the spiritual lives of our posterity who were trustingly placed in the arms of Brigham Young University. Thanks for calling out the wolves in sheep's clothing. God bless your for it - "Do we not have a prophet in the land?" Let's return Brigham Young University to its greatness. "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." We love you again and again.
Jill PalmerAugust 25, 2021
I am tremendously grateful for my years as a student at BYU,1968-75. Each of my teachers in many fields helped my testimony of the gospel increase. In particular, my first Book of Mormon class was an eye-opener to me with warnings about social and other issues to beware of in the latter-days. To be forewarned is to be forearmed. I hope that Elder Holland's magnificent talk is taken to heart by all.
brian stubbsAugust 25, 2021
Three cheers for Elder Holland! Make that 27 cheers!! Some of my children and grandchildren have said similarly, that some BYU professors push worldly philosophy and not even mingled with much scripture. Especially irksome are how many BYU professors seem to think the Book of Mormon is "inspired fiction" or less and did not happen in ancient America, counter to evidences like the discovery of Nahom written in stone, no less, and hundreds of other such supports. Those into such wayward non-wisdom need to keep those opinions to themselves, be retired early, or fired. And that question should be posed to every future prospective professor, as well.
Jan RifeAugust 25, 2021
I love Elder Holland. My mom worked with him when she taught seminary in Seattle, he has slways been my favotite. 4 out of 5 of my siblings went there in the 70s. My son graduated 10 years ago and I was so shocked at how it has changed. It's about time for this speach and I'm glad it came from my favorite. I hope all the professors that teach contrary to the gospel principles are let go. Please return it to the Lord's university
Barbie MeyersAugust 25, 2021
Thank you to Elder Holland for addressing the issues found within BYU. I have found much coming from there very discomforting. I hope and pray that the faculty will realign themselves with truth and light. I hope and pray that the student body will seek for truth and light.
PamAugust 25, 2021
I am so grateful for Elder Holland's speech. I attended BYU in the 70s, and returned to Provo recently after having lived in other places in between. I was surprised at the changes I have seen at BYU since returning. I have been disappointed in hearing about radical ideas of some faculty members at BYU, about very vocal promotion of alternate lifestyles. There was a house on my street occupied by several members of the football team, who had inappropriate parties every weekend involving alcohol, tobacco, and likely other substances. I see athletes for BYU and other students whose dress and hair do not reflect the honor code. I am so glad that Elder Holland addressed some of the issues affecting BYU at this time. I hope BYU will uphold its unique mission and not yield to the voices that are pulling it away from that mission.
Maryann TaylorAugust 24, 2021
I just read this address today and I am so glad you also posted it on Meridian. Elder Holland makes it clear that BYU professors have a sacred trust to teach according to the light and truth of the gospel. I am so happy Elder Holland gave this address at a time when there is confusion for some about the subject of same-sex relationships. I think my favorite part of the address was his comment that: "..Christ never ONCE withheld his love from anyone, but he also never once said to anyone, 'Because I love you, you are exempt from keeping my commandments.' " I think that says it all.
Kelly P.August 24, 2021
My own son's testimony was shredded and shattered by the teachings and opinions of an admired BYU professor over 26 years ago. My son, a faithful returned missionary, was so proud and thankful to attend BYU, where he earned his Bachelor's degree. We were thankful that he could attend BYU, and entrusted him to that great institution. But we never expected him to be spiritually wounded by a professor and mentor who should have been strengthening his faith and building his testimony. I hope the faculty and leaders of BYU will listen to Elder Holland, and work hard to stay within the light and truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ and teach them. They have an extremely important responsibility to do so.
R McCaskillAugust 24, 2021
I graduate from BYU and was impressed and loved how it was not only a secular institution but also a religious one. I enjoyed my gospel doctrine classes and know the mission of BYU was inspired. I had to go through an interview with my Bishop and agree to uphold the standard of the church, I hope the professors are asked to do the same and are held accountable if they don't. If I didn't uphold those standards I risked getting expelled, I would expect the professors should be held to the same criteria.
CASAugust 24, 2021
As a BYU graduate of many years ago and avid BYU supporter, I honestly think it is time to play "hardball" with these issues! I propose that any teacher/professor violating the high standards of teaching at Brigham Young University which are outside the boundaries set by the Church of Latter-day Saints and the teachings therein, should be put on academic probation with a follow-up interview by an Apostle in person. The claims against that person should be clear and substantiated by students or faculty. (The video clip by a Lehi High student the first week of school of the offense he/she saw and heard from a teacher was conclusive in the dismissal of that offending teacher!). If the concerns are substantiated, the instructor should be terminated immediately! Period! This is MY university also, and I think high standards of teaching should be expected and demanded!
Laurin RackhamAugust 24, 2021
Yesterday my daughter and I 'intstalled' her gay son and his sister in the dorms at the Y. Both have ever been treated with the utmost courtesy and dignity at the Y. They are some of my 32 offspring (and grand-offspring) who have been there. Afterwards, shopping for food for them, my daughter met Sister Susan Easton Black, also shopping, and expressed profound gratitude for her teaching there. "That class is where I gained my testimony of the Prophet Joseph Smith." That you Elder Doctor Holland and Sister Doctor Black so very much for all you do for all of us.
Dennis HorneAugust 24, 2021
This was a superb and inspired address from an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ. I see from online content that many are taking issue with it and therefore showing where they stand. Some are slandering this Special Witness who told the truth he knew some would find upsetting or unpopular or contrary to their personal views. Such is Elder Holland's calling and duty before God. I entertain slight hope that the offending parties at BYU that Elder Holland was speaking to will correct their ways. These people, as Elder Holland noted, are activists and advocates; hence the "tragic" friendly fire aimed at the Brethren/Church he spoke of. No matter the philosophies of the world, the scriptures and doctrine will not change and BYU needs to harmonize or either cease to exist or something else drastic--as Elder Holland, Pres. Nelson, and Pres. Oaks were all quoted as saying. We must love all (including LGBT) but NOT "condone" the sinful behavior or activism.
John R CarpenterAugust 24, 2021
"... After having served a full-time mission and marrying her husband in the temple, a friend of mine recently left the church. In her graduation statement on a social media post, she credited [such and such a BYU program and its faculty] with the radicalizing of her attitudes and the destruction of her faith.’” I know of 3 people who have left the Church because of what they learned at BYU - including my daughter.
Sonya WashburnAugust 24, 2021
Thank you Elder Holland for addressing this issue. I too have felt to stop contributing to BYU if its professors are going to teach contrary to gospel principles. This has been going on for quite some time and there should be a way to weed out these unbelieving professors that are doing damage to our trusting children.
PatriceAugust 24, 2021
So glad that someone has said something. Bravo to Elder Holland. He is able to put his thoughts across in such a beautiful & spiritual way. What's been going on at BYU for the past several years and how it has accelerated to such a rapid pace is scary, to say the least.
SfischAugust 24, 2021
Amen and amen! Philosophies of men-so thankful for a living oracle to guide us in our fallen world. I love Elder Holland-he proclaimed the truth and corrected the mistakes in a way/manner that most only hope they could.
Elizabeth SAugust 24, 2021
Thanks for covering this talk in detail. I've written the Board of Trustees and admin at BYU 3 times in the past year about particular curricula and faculty attitudes at BYU. I am glad for this evidence that they are listening. Now I guess we'll see if this makes a difference with the boots on the ground.
Paralee M. EckmanAugust 24, 2021
I have known Elder Jeffrey R. Holland since he was a child in the same ward I grew up in. We met and visited briefly several times as he visited his beloved St. George. We treasure his wisdom and insight, and I am so glad he gave this address at BYU! I have heard from people who have had children who lost their testimony at BYU, and that is a tragedy! When a student attends BYU, you expect them to be strengthened in Gospel principles, and not hear messages against Church teachings. I went to BYU in 1954-55, and it was very Church centered. It needs to be now, and in the future!
ShaunaAugust 24, 2021
thank you Elder Holland. I love you and you will always be "President Holland" to me, as you were President of BYU when I was there. I thank God for you and your passion for BYU. I had a daughter there last year who is soon leaving on a mission and deliver another daughter there tomorrow. I have attended 2 other private universities for graduate training and there is nothing like BYU. But I am also aware that not all faculty are on board completely with the Gospel, and in fact, in receiving a masters degree there, many years ago, was also indoctrinated, and believed for a time, some ideologies that are not in complete harmony with the Gospel. Students can get the philosophies of the world anywhere, but BYU is one of the few places where they can learn those philosophies through the lens of the gospel. It seems to me that the Lord has a vested and continuing interest in education--i.e. D&C 88 and 93, but it also seems striking to me, that 4 of 15 current apostles have been either Presidents of BYU-I or BYU. I believe you when you say that the Lord planted a love for BYU early on in your heart, and I am so grateful that the flame is still burning. May God continue to lead this great university to be a "house of learning and a house of faith."
P SkousenAugust 24, 2021
In my life I attended BYU and helped my husband through this magnificent university. I have always been grateful for that opportunity. My brother and my youngest daughter graduated from BYU and my middle daughter graduated from BYU-I. The standards and wisdom received from the remarkable professors who stood for truth and righteousness was always a testimony to the truthfulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ to myself and to my family. Thank you Elder Holland for your perfect words of wisdom.
chris howellAugust 24, 2021
Thank you for sharing. As a parent with three BYU grads and son in law part of the faculty, I pray that Elder Holland's admonishment will be heeded without reservation.
JustinAugust 24, 2021
Thank you for sharing this message. Too many are swept along with "politically correct" messages, and forget the love of our Heavenly Father and His desire for happiness and love for all. Sometimes that means taking a stand, and aligning yourself with Him. His ways are not our ways.
LindaAugust 24, 2021
BYU needs to "let go" those instructors who teach this trash to students. As professors of BYU, they are actually going against the code of BYU just as much as any student who dresses or acts inappropriately.
SamAugust 24, 2021
I think there is another division that I do often read with Deseret News. Trump has caused great division almost Anarchy. Many in the Church feel you must be for Trump or your not going to the Celestial Kingdom. That you must be a Republican. I have concerns about both parties. Please address this. Our country is in a major pandemic and many thousands have needlessly died because of the word , Hoax. Please address this! Thank you
Colleen MoellerAugust 24, 2021
I love this article, and am so glad that Elder Holland spoke to this point. Having attended BYU a few decades ago, and having watched it closely as a place to recommend to my own children, I have been disappointed in more recent years from the public messages that seem to come from faculty and students. Thank you Elder Holland for making it clear that BYU, it’s faculty and students should always be loyal first to gospel principles and the messages of the restored gospel.
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