The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reported that non-member "friends" attending seminary classes nearly doubled in two years, reaching approximately 85,000 students. Seminary, the church's weekday religious education program for teenagers, has traditionally been limited to members.

The dramatic increase in non-member participation represents a significant shift in how the church approaches youth religious education. Church officials said the "friends" program allows interested teenagers to participate in scripture study alongside LDS peers.

The expansion comes as the church works to reverse membership activity declines and attract younger participants. Opening seminary to non-members could serve as a conversion pipeline while also providing social connections that keep LDS youth engaged.