Following our past tradition with the Religious Educator, this volume includes several essays written for and by Seminaries and Institutes faculty. In addition to those published by our colleagues at Seminaries and Institutes, there are several gems that will provide new insights into important historical events. Anthony Sweat’s article, “The Role of Art in Teaching Latter-day Saint History and Doctrine,” arose from work that was done in connection with our recent book From Darkness unto Light: Joseph Smith’s Translation and Publication of the Book of Mormon (RSC and Deseret Book, 2015). The article offers fresh insights into the interplay of religious art and the teaching of Church history. Another important contribution in this edition of the journal is the article written by Sharon Black, Brad Wilcox, and Spencer Olsen, “Preparation for a Classic Sermon: President Benson’s Study Materials for ‘Beware of Pride.’” This article presents a study drawing upon the archival materials that were used by President Ezra Taft Benson as he prepared for his influential talk on pride. I was particularly interested to learn of the diverse materials that he drew upon as he wrote that talk.

As with past issues of the Religious Educator, I have enjoyed working closely with the authors and helping them express their important research in ways that will touch lives and shape understanding. I think this issue achieves that, and there is something in this issue for nearly everyone. I hope you will enjoy reading it as much as I have enjoyed shaping it.

Thomas A. Wayment

Editor