“Wherefore, stand ye in holy places, and be not moved, until the day of the Lord come” (Doctrine and Covenants 87:8).
For Grayson Morgan, assistant professor of geography, this scripture testifies of eternal truths found in his chosen field of study. He sees a distinct link with Tobler’s First Law of Geography: “Everything is related to everything else, but near things are more related than distant things.” As we strive to be closer to God, we can become more like Him.
“The concepts of proximity and familiarity are important in both geography and the gospel,” says Morgan. “Phrases like ‘Stand ye in holy places’ and ‘Come unto me’ are more than invitations to be nearer to Christ. They are calls to become like Him.”
In the Geography Department at BYU, applying gospel methodology deepens students’ appreciation of course material. “All things unto [God] are spiritual” (Doctrine and Covenants 29:34), including geographic and spatial concepts.
Gospel methodology also aids students in becoming disciples of Jesus Christ as well as educated citizens of a global society. For example, regional and human geography courses help students keep the great commandment to love our neighbors.
In fall 2023, Morgan felt inspired to share BYU’s unique approach with others. “I thought it was one way I could follow President Reese’s invitation to have the courage to be different,” shares Morgan.
Together with several students, he formalized thoughts on gospel methodology in geography with a poster presentation at the National Council for Geographic Education (NCGE) 2023 Annual Conference. Educators from all over the United States gathered at this event to discuss teaching techniques and curriculum for geography.
The team’s research poster, titled “Inspiring Learning in Geography: The Importance of Experiential Learning and Gospel Methodology in Teaching and Learning Geography at a Religious Institution,” outlined how gospel methodology enriches experiential learning. Photos displayed students’ inspiring learning experiences—from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to analytically determining the ideal location for a new grocery store.
Morgan was encouraged by conference attendees’ responses. “They really appreciated the example of teaching with a gospel lens. Many took pictures of the presentation to refer to later in teaching.” Now, he says, “I am happy to be bolder and share my testimony in professional settings.”
Reflecting on the experience, Morgan adds, “The Lord is willing to provide guidance on how to incorporate gospel methodology and build and defend His kingdom as we seek it.”
