MORMON SOPRANO

This is part one in a two-part educational series by author Christopher Millz on the multiple meanings of Religious Symbolism. For those who have particular interest or questions regarding the religious symbols of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ( “Mormons”), this will be particularly helpful and enlightening. I encourage you to watch both parts. As always your respectful feedback and comments are welcome! - MoSop

African Children's Choir

Twenty-five years ago Ray Barnett visited Uganda, where he first envisioned the African Children’s Choir™. Today, the Music for Life program has helped hundreds of African children receive shelter, food, education, musical training, and the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Many of these children have lost one or both parents to war, AIDS, and other effects of poverty. The children selected for the world touring choir range in age from 7-11 years old. Once chosen, the organization commits to long-term support of the child through primary, secondary and upper education, which ensures the child transitions into adulthood with a career and a bright future. The Music for Life program has become so successful, and the need is so great, that a larger school is currently under contruction.

These children have become the rising leaders of their countries. Programs are currently located in Uganda, Kenya, Rowanda, Sudan, Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa. Former graduates of the choir program now have professional careers in the areas of science, medicine, finance, international relations, journalism, and more. They actively serve their country and community in humanitarian work. The healing power of music, combined with love and Christian education is creating peace and hope in Africa, one life at a time.

The Nkomazi children singing “You Are The Shepherd”

Purchase one of their beautiful Music CDs, in time for Christmas!

Or, give an online donation (all amounts large or small welcome)

I have discovered a lovely and fascinating video which combines a Byzantine era Christmas song in arabic, with beautiful images. The english translation is included.

It is easy to forget that there are devout followers of Christ found throughout all nationalities and cultures. This arabic chant describes Jesus Christ’s nativity, and has been preserved by the Christians of the Middle East who continue to bear witness of the Savior’s birth in their land. Although this style of music is not familiar to our western ear, it is most likely that a similar melody was lullaby to the infant Jesus. I encourage you to let it wrap around your heart, as you enjoy this visual treat.

“Arabic Nativity Hymn”
Chanted by: Reader Nader Hajjar, Ottawa Canada.

The Christus Statue on Mormon Temple Square

A few weeks ago, a blog buddy of mine named John Shore sent me an email. Knowing that I am a Mormon, he shared an article recently published by Richard Abanes, which presents the theory that Mormonism has legally  been declared non-Christian.

On inspection this post’s startling claim does not hold water. I would like to offer my personal response as a researched, fact-based rebuttal, in order to provide balance and fairness for readers.

It is my hope that many will take the time to consider my words. I wish to clarify misconceptions, and help you experience a little peace in your day. (more…)

Two LDS (Mormon) missionaries performed an act of heroism this week, saving a woman’s life.  The two young men, Elder Beard and Elder Bennellack, are serving full-time missions in Australia for the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They were put to the ultimate test, when walking down the street they came upon a pregnant woman being repeatedly stabbed. Although the young men had no training for such a dangerous situation they immediately went to the woman’s rescue. They miraculously were able to talk the attacker away from the victim, who then fled. They carried the woman to safety, and flagged down a man in a car passing by who turned out to be an off-duty policeman. The woman was taken to the hospital for immediate care, and the attacker was arrested a very short time later.

One of the missionaries stated that “everything just came together” for being at the right place at the right time. What a brilliant example of bravery and selfless service. There were certainly many miracles involved. This is a beautiful 21st century version of the good samaritan parable. It is the gospel of Jesus Christ being put into action!  

WATCH LOCAL TV NEWS REPORT

During Jesus Christ’s ministry, His faithful disciples often heard gospel principles taught by thought-provoking short stories known as parables. Jesus utilized a fantastic teaching tool, knowing that stories sink deep into the memory. The more a story is pondered, the more meaningful they can become. 

Thus, when a lawyer chose to challenge the Savior on a point of doctrine, Jesus used His masterful technique. The Book of Luke, chapter 10 records the event. Attempting to entrap Jesus, the lawyer asked, (more…)

Dr. Mack Wilberg has written a new arrangement of the American Folk Hymn entitled “My Song in the Night” which is hauntingly beautiful. I have tried to do some research online regarding its origin and history, and came up a bit empty-handed. However, the text to this hymn is particularly haunting. The words invoke an attitude of deep personal pleading:

(more…)

Today is Easter Sunday. A little trivia: It is the earliest calendar date that Easter will be celebrated for nearly two centuries.  The Christian world is commemorating (more…)

Is He Really There?

“I know my Father lives, and loves me too. The Spirit whispers this to me, and tells me it is true” – Hymn 302

I have recently been having an interesting conversation (more…)