Determined to keep 100 percent attendance, Eden Riwai-Couch attended early morning seminary (scripture class) less than 12 hours after coming out of surgery. Eden, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently underwent wrist surgery following a netball injury.
She came out of surgery around 7 pm, and the next morning, she joined in her early morning seminary class at 6:30 from hospital, which has been meeting virtually since the lockdown. She has continued to attend seminary since then, in spite of a painful recovery.
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Her nine classmates were surprised to see her there. Eden admits she was still a little woozy from surgery and her memories of the lesson are a bit vague.
She shared, "Studying and reading scripture has given me a better understanding. I have felt a desire to continue and it feels really good."
Eden's seminary teacher, Samantha Fourie, noted, "We love having Eden in our class. She is a very dedicated seminary student. She is so positive and optimistic and is always willing to participate. Eden is a wonderful example of commitment and strength and we’re blessed to have her in our class." She added, "I can’t say enough about this special girl!"
Seminary is a worldwide, four-year religious educational program for youth ages 14 through 18. It is operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but is open to teenagers of all faiths. In seminary, students and their teachers meet each weekday during the school year to study scripture.