In his talk “If These Old Walls Could Talk” Bishop H David Burton talks briefly about the restoration of the Tabernacle. He explains that every effort was made to restore it as accurately as possible. Bishop Burton speaks of how they worked to reinforce the walls and put in a new foundation. He tells us about the new roof, and seats with more legroom. He thanks those who worked so long to restore this building to the way it was built.
Bishop Burton goes on to speak about the many events that have taken place in the Tabernacle. He speaks about President Joseph F Smith and the words that he shared at a conference after rising from an illness. President Smith later shared 138th section of the Doctrine of Covenants.
Bishop Burton goes on to explain, briefly, the announcement by President Heber J Grant of the Church Welfare program during the Great Depression. This program has helped many people to begin to help themselves. This program has greatly blessed the members of the church.
Bishop Burton speaks of the announcement to hold family home evening regularly both in 1915 and again in 1964. He recalls the moving testimony of the Savior given by Elder Bruce R McConkie in 1985. He then goes on to speak of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” that President Gordon B Hinckley first shared with the women of the church in 1995.
This is a wonderful talk. Bishop Burton shares some wonderful quotes about each of the events he speaks of. The quotes are very moving. So much has happened in the Tabernacle. It is amazing to think of being there to witness it. I was at the session of conference when they announce the construction of the new Conference Center. Do you have any memories of being at the Tabernacle at any time?
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