Brigham Young University Religious Education has issued a call for paper proposals which focus on the Doctrine and Covenants to be presented at the 41st Annual Sidney B. Sperry Symposium in October 2012. Proposals are due electronically on or before May 1.
Proposals for papers should focus on the text of the Doctrine and Covenants, exploring significant messages, teachings, doctrines and themes. Proposed research is expected to demonstrate critical thinking and make an original contribution to the understanding of this modern book of scripture.
Possible approaches may include, but are not limited to: historical and doctrinal analyses of a D&C section or group of sections, unique ways to teach significant or difficult passages in the D&C or relationships between particular sections and their cultural and historical contexts.
Proposals should take the form of a one-page essay, with separate paragraphs detailing:
1. The central question the research will answer and a preliminary thesis that will guide the thinking and writing.
2. A brief summary of the sources (primary and secondary) intended to consult.
3. Background of the submitter, including any special experience or training that might enrich the research.
Include name, address, phone number, e-mail address and a working title for the paper in the heading of the proposal.
Proposals must be submitted electronically, as an attached Word, WordPerfect or PDF document, to Patty Smith at patty_smith@byu.edu. Submitters will be notified of their proposal’s status by June 1. Those whose proposals are accepted for presentation at the symposium must submit final papers, ranging from 15 to 25 pages in length, by Oct. 1. Some of the selected papers will also be featured in the symposium publication, to be released prior to the conference.
Proposals and papers must be consistent with the doctrines and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
This event is co-sponsored by the Church Educational System and the Division of Continuing Education. For more information, contact Patty Smith at (801) 422-3611.
Writer: Mel Gardner
