MORMON SOPRANO

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir has released an official video press kit that includes over 35 informational segments.

The videos range from the history of the choir, to the planning of a tour, and everything in-between. Segments  include interviews with choir leadership, and individual members share their personal stories. There is plenty of great information for both those who may be unfamiliar with the choir, or for the choir enthusiast.

Head on over, and check it out!

Rev. Roberts

Many are familiar with the National Anthem of the United States of America, however did you know there is also a National Hymn?

Daniel C. Roberts (1841–1907) was a 35 year-old rector of a rural Episcopalian church in Brandon, Vermont when he wrote the text to the hymn “God Of Our Fathers”. He did this as a gift for his congregation to sing in celebration of the American Centennial of 1876. The original tune used was (ironically) entitled RUSSIAN HYMN.

In 1892, the Episcopal General Commission approved the hymn as a submission, and printed it anonymously in its annual report. At that time, Rev. Dr. Tucker, who was the editor of the Hymnal, and George W. Warren, an organist in New York City, were commissioned to choose a hymn for the celebration of the Centennial of the United States Constitution. They chose Rev. Robert’s text and Rev. Warren wrote a new tune for it, which he titled NATIONAL HYMN. This new arrangement included a bold trumpet fanfare, which has remained a standard.

“I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.” Psalm 63:30

“God of Our Fathers Whose Almighty Hand” was first published in Tucker’s Hymnal, in 1892. And then reprinted in 1894 in the Tucker and Rosseau’s Hymnal, Revised and Enlarged. It was included in the Latter-day Saint Hymnal in the late 1800′s, and has become a beloved standard of Mormon repertoire, listed as Hymn #78. This hymn is often viewed by members of the LDS faith as an anthem of their triumph over persecution, as well as gratitude to God for their opportunity to thrive in America, and spread their message throughout the world. Hat tip to frarozu for creating this lovely music video.

Elder Hales

The priesthood is the power of God, which is given to mankind to act in His name. It is the greatest blessing on earth today, restored in its fulness, and available to everyone. My family and I have been personally blessed beyond words by this gift from God. I invite you to watch this video,  learn more, and come partake!

President Eyring

This beautiful advice for daily living is taken from an excerpt of a talk given by LDS apostle President Henry B. Eyring entitled “O Remember, Remember“.

Joseph Smith, chosen prophet

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe that the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and the divine priesthood authority to act in His name was lost from the earth through an apostacy, which then needed to be restored. This Restoration happened in 1820 through a latter-day prophet chosen by Jesus Christ, named Joseph Smith. The following video is an illustrated excerpt of a talk entitled “How Choice A Seer” by the late LDS apostle Elder Neal A. Maxwell, discussing this Restoration.

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To Learn More

1. Mormons & Jesus Christ:  jesuschrist.lds.org

2. About the Prophet Joseph Smith: josephsmith.net

3. About Mormon beliefs: Mormon.org

In conjunction with my last post memorializing the passing of Mormon Scholar Truman Madsen, I want to share a link to the Mormon Times which is offering a fabulous video tribute that should not be missed!

Truman Madsen: Eternal Man