The Power of Hymns

One of my favorite parts of Church is singing the hymns. Song brings such a great spirit and pairing that with singing about Christ is even better!!!! Hymns are there for us to feel the Spirit and love of our Heavenly Father. We can use them to uplift us when we feel down, to repeat in our minds when unrighteousness is around us, and we can use them in talks. There are many other opportunities to use hymns, and I would hope that we don't take for granted such inspiring words. Jay E. Jensen once said: "Hymns are “an essential part of our church meetings. [They] invite the Spirit of the Lord.” They often do this quicker than anything else we may do. President J. Reuben Clark Jr. said, “We get nearer to the Lord through music than perhaps through any other thing except prayer.”" (2007 April General Conference, The Nourishing Power of Hymns). This past conference my family and I saw it at the Conference Center. When we would head to a session, it was pleasant to be able to walk through temple square. Right across the street from the Conference Center is where the protesters are. Every year they rebel and yell. Which distracts from the spirit. But what I discovered and absolutely adored was that not too far away, there were college students in two lines singing hymns. I felt the Spirit so strongly by simply walking past! I wish we had time to do that! I love how strong the Church is. Whatever happens, whether good or bad, we're always there for each other and willing to help in any way we can. One of my favorite things to do is listen to church music at school. It helps me to remember that Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father are watching over me and are there. It calms me down, and helps distract me from the inappropriate situations and words flying around. The First Presidency has taught: "We hope the hymnbook will take a prominent place among the scriptures and other religious books in our homes. The hymns can bring families a spirit of beauty and peace and can inspire love and unity among family members."
I would like to challenge all of us to listen to this great counsel given by the prophets of our day. I know that the Book of Mormon is the truest book, ever published on this Earth today. Let us all tell the world about this fantastic book! The Holy Ghost will give you words to speak when you don't know how to say it. I know that My Redeemer Lives and wants us all to return to Him. If we keep His commandments and love Him with all of our might, mind, and strength, His grace will be sufficient. And I say that in the name of the Good Shepard, Jesus Christ, Amen.