In his talk “The Nourishing Power of Hymns” Elder Jay E Jensen stresses the important role that hymns have in our church. He speaks of experiences where hymns invited in the spirit and he was able to learn from them. He speaks of fond memories that involve singing the hymns.
Elder Jensen goes on to speak about how hymns invite the spirit. He shares the story of two missionaries who were able to diffuse a tense meeting by singing a hymn. Elder Jensen went on to say:
“Music in Church meetings and classes should facilitate a spirit of worship, revelation, and testimony. For sacrament meetings, the bishopric or branch presidency is responsible to select or approve music. They ensure that the music, the words, and the musical instruments are sacred, dignified, and will promote worship and revelation. Music becomes a performance when it brings attention to itself. Years ago, I was responsible for the music in a meeting where a special musical number was a performance. It was a disappointment. The spirit of worship was diminished.”
Elder Jensen goes on to say that hymns help to establish a feeling of reverence. It is at the times that we are reverent that we are most open to receive revelation. He stresses the importance of listening to the prelude music to help us prepare to be taught.
Elder Jensen also stressed that hymns can invite conversion. Many of the hymns are on specific doctrines of the church. As we sing the hymns we can feel a confirmation regarding the truth of the doctrine. Elder Jensen points out that Sacrament hymns are especially powerful in this manner.
Elder Jensen then encouraged us to teach our children the hymns and primary songs in our home. He goes on to stress the importance of listening to the music to invite the spirit in. It is also important to sing the hymns in Sacrament meetings.
I really enjoyed this talk. While I do not have a wonderful voice, I do enjoy singing the hymns. There are certain hymns that express my feelings at certain times in my life and when I sing them I am reminded of those times. This helps me to remember the many ways that the Lord has blessed my life. It is too easy to pass over the blessings that can accompany worshipping through music.
Related Articles:
Family Home Evening: Music and Worship
Music Resources Available at www.lds.org
Music Sets the Mood
Primary Time: Teaching Primary Songs