QUOTE: Why?...I have always been curious about this. As far as I know, this is the only church that wants to control which ward/Parish/etc you attend. All the other ones I know of are simply happy you are going, regardless of when or which building.
Well, there are a few reasons that I am aware of but I am not an expert on this. One is that your church records are in that ward therefore you can have a calling there, etc. Also, the bishop in your home ward has the ability to receive revelation for those he is over. Just like the prophet receives revelation for the entire church or a father for his family. Those are just a few that I know of.
In response to seminary, I grew up in Utah as well and I am pretty sure that seminary is just part of the curriculum meaning if you don't take it you are getting extra credits and if you do it doesn't mean that you lose out on credits. Secondly, I know that most schools offer an early morning class for students in your situation. Some even offer summer classes that happen only once a week. I think it would be worth a shot. This next year is the New Testament and so you would be learning a lot about Christ's life. Once again, try focusing on the things you could learn there not on how the teacher's teach. The scriptures should be the real teacher.
Once again answers will come more readily when you act. Sorry I am probably banging that idea into the ground but I think it is crucial. Any more questions...shoot them my way or better yet missionaries or your bishop could be a very good route.
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