WHAT'S THE LDS COMMUNITY LIKE IN NEW HAVEN?

Most Yale students attend the New Haven YSA branch, which is located right on campus. Other than Yale undergraduates, the branch has many graduate students, students from other universities, and working professionals from the area. On any given Sunday there are around fifty members in attendance. Many attend Family Home Evening on Mondays, Institute on Tuesdays, Break the Fast and other monthly activites. The branch is a very tightly knit community, and undergraduates benefit from being friends with people outside of Yale. 

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HOW OFTEN DO WE DO ACTIVITIES AS AN LDSSA?

Outside of the branch, the LDSSA hosts many scheduled activities, casual study breaks, and parties. On Sunday nights we have family dinner in a private dining room with many of our graduate students, and on Thursdays we take turns leading an informal scripture study and social hour. Official activities have included watching the Olympics, apple picking, visiting the beach, hiking East Rock, and making midnight pancakes. We also get together throughout the week to play card games, bake cookies, have dinner, celebrate birthdays, and explore New Haven. 

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WHERE IS CHURCH AND INSTITUTE?

Church and Institute classes are held at the same building on campus which is within walking distance from undergraduate dorms. You can find the address and hours here.

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WHAT IS SOCIAL LIFE LIKE AT YALE FOR A MORMON?

It's fun! Yale has many social events and extracurricular activities, which means everyone can find a place where they feel comfortable. Although there are many activities at Yale that do involve drinking, most students are very respectful and supportive of others' values and lifestyles. In addition to being members of the LDSSA, students have active social lives beyond the church community. Many of us feel that being surrounded by people who come from different backgrounds and traditions is one of the greatest benefits of coming to Yale.

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CAN I SERVE A MISSION?

Yes! Many of the LDS students here at Yale are return missionaries, and on any given year there are usually one or two students on missions. The Yale administration is very accommodating, and serving a mission is completely possible. Reach out to us here if you want more specific information on how to defer or take a leave of absence. 

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HOW EASY IS IT TO GET TO THE TEMPLE FROM YALE?

The Hartford Temple is a short 45 minute drive away, and the branch holds  a temple trip on the second Thursday of every month, which includes baptisms and an endowment session. You can also easily take the train to the Manhattan temple on your own. 

 

CAN I MEET ANY MORMONS WHEN I VISIT YALE?

Yes! Reach out to us and we would love to meet up with you and answer any more questions. If you need a place to stay, we can also host you during your visit. Our contact information is here.

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