I love the background tours. As Security, we have access to all of those behind-the-scenes areas, and I have explored all of the nooks and crannies of the buildings on property.
I am a Latter-day Saint (and retired member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square) and recently moved to a medium-sized town in north central Missouri. The local Presbyterian church invited me to join them for their Christmas Vespers concert the week before last Christmas, and then I was invited back to be a featured soloist for their Easter Program singing "The Trumpet Shall Sound" from Messiah. They were very welcoming and inviting and we shared some great musical moments together.
It was great having you with us in rehearsal. You are right that we consider it a great privilege to be in the choir. There are many fabulous musicians who never have the opportunity to be part of a group of this caliber. I was excited to see you join us for an evening.
You got to experience what 99.9% of all the memebers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day saints have not experienced. I hope your visit was a rewarding experience.
Love your videos! I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and I feel like God is trying to bring all of us who believe in Christ together. As the world gets more difficult we will only be able to rely on Christ and fellow Christians to reach the end of the race as Paul said. Thank you for letting other Christians see who we are. Thank you for being courageous enough to reach out to us Latter Day Saints.
I was a Protestant (Presbyterian) when I was a boy, but I joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 33 years of age in 1985, and still am active in the Church. The Tabernacle Choir and organists and Orchestra at Temple Square are Heaven on Earth - a true blessing to the Church and to the world...
They have a false gospel and they teach falsely about God having becone a god among countless gods and that you can too. They're super nice people, but they are on a false way.
My dear friend, and with all the sweetness I can muster, really. Your religion is based on the Nicene creed, which is not in the Bible or given by a prophet, but was a compromise, a compromise! It was an effort to get a compromise between a vast number of groups who didn’t agree over the nature of God and many other points of doctrine. It was presided over by a rank Pagan who didn’t know any doctrine and probably didn’t care. It was a mass of confusion! Joseph Smith, a real prophet, simply declared, “I saw two personages, and one of them said, This is my Beloved Son!” In the New Testament, Jesus prayed every day to his father! John declares Jesus to be God’s only begotten son. Do I need to explain begotten to you? Please don’t call our doctrines false!
@@dalechristensen1168 Your doctrines are false. And I am sorry and sad to say it. Joseph fails the two tests of a prophet given in Deuteronomy. Yes, please, look into the meaning of the Greek word translated as begotten there. Jesus was not created but is God. I'm sorry to be blunt, but I believe our time may be short before Christ returns. Pandering is a luxury that we do not have now. God did not become a god among countless gods and you will not be a god. Joseph was a false prophet leading SO many astray. But, the good news is that we may come to the true Jesus and He will give us life. God's word is true. His word will never pass away. Although heaven and earth will pass away, God's word is true and will not.
When I was living in Mississippi, there wasn't a Latter Day Saint ward choir. I was invited to sing with the local Baptist choir. The spirit was there and the words we sang were true. It was a wonderful opportunity to bridge our faiths and find common ground 😊
When I was 14 one of the tabernacle organists was in my ward. To motivate my brother and me to learn to play hymns, he set us a goal of each learning 12 hymns. As a reward for achieving the goal, he rewarded us by allowing us to play this incredible organ.
I'm a Latter-Day Saint, but converted in my 20's. I know ALL the hymns you mentioned! The LDS Church sings so many of the same songs and hymns as the protestant churches, yet many got "lost" as our hymnbooks were changed over time. My grandmother taught me the old hymns (the Old Rugged Cross, I Walk in the Garden, etc.), and many others I learned in Vacation bible school. What you all are doing is Fantastic!! Thank you so much!!
Jeff, Joy, I am one of the cellists in Millennial Choirs and Orchestras (MCO) and was very pleased to hear that you and your wife attended one of our concerts! I hope we were able to help you feel the love of the Savior and draw nearer to Him. We love what we do. I'll also mention that MCO is an interfaith group, although most, like me, are LDS. It's a group that is open to anyone who believes in Christ. You should come and join us!
I love that the songs Israel, Israel, God is Calling and What a Friend we have in Jesus were mentioned. I am non-LDS, brought up Protestant and was listening to the Tabernacle Choir on TV and I recognized the melody to What a Friend we have in Jesus. I was happy to recognize a familiar song but when the choir sang they were not the lyrics I was expecting. This is how I became acquainted with Israel, Israel, God is Calling.
There's an apocryphal story that Israel A. Smith, grandson of Joseph Smith, and president of the RLDS Church, once visited his Utah cousins, and was invited to attend a session of General Conference. From the pulpit, LDS leaders welcomed Brother Israel Smith, and then announced that the opening hymn would be "Israel, Israel, God Is Calling."
Watching the videos, the feeling I always have is that it would be so nice if all people, from the most diverse denominations, had this open mind and understanding that we are one big family, all children of God. Surely we would see many more miracles. Congratulations to the couple for the wonderful work.
Mormonism is not a denomination of Christianity-- their leadership lies to you constantly to cover up this FACT of history. They also discourage you from thinking and investigating it for yourself, not having any degree of informed consent to know the truth. th-cam.com/users/shortsBrrx7LUeyHg
So glad you got this opportunity. My father joined the Tabernacle Choir around 1936 @ 21 years old. He eventually became the Stage Manager and retired from that position in 1992; after 56 years of service, all volunteer. The choir and Tabernacle was a big part of my life growing up. I've seen those behind-the-scenes things you got to experience and this brought back good memories. I think music is one area we can always come together on, because in many ways, music transcends the logical, rational mind, and speaks directly to the soul. Thank you for bringing us along on your journey, Pastor Jeff.
You two are so pleasantly beautiful, gentle, and polite. I am so grateful that people of different religions can be friends as we all reverence our God who created us all.
@@dorar6123 Watch Greg Matson's (CWIC Media channel) podcast from a couple days ago (May 20) with Bruce Porter, speaking about temple and religious references found within the Egypt temples, as well as religious and cultural references. FASCINATING!
There's another song with the same tune called "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say." I put them both in a playlist (including a version of a The Killers song witht he same tune) as if it were telling a story of a sinner returning to God through Christ. Sidenote: I heave heard that Kolob as being interpreted as an intricate metaphor for Christ, which is fitting when you compare "If You Could Hie To Kolob" and "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say"
The Tabernacle was built from 1863 to 1875 by the brightest minds and the hardiest Pioneers. That said for what it is and when it was built, it is amazing world wide. The sound in the building was the number one issue in 1863. The shape is to make sure everyone in the building can hear the speaker before speakers and microphones.
Wow….! And when I think your videos can’t get any better, you go and knock one out of the park…. Thank you for the behind the scenes peeks into what I’ve seen only in photos in the past 52 years of membership. Thank you… You guys are best when you are together…. Love you both….
You should try listening to Mack Wilberg's arrangement of Come Thou Fount performed by the Tabernacle Choir. When I sang with the choir, I found myself unable to continue singing it because of the emotions it produced. It is a stunning piece of music.
When I heard contemporary Christian music for the first time I became hooked. I listen to it ALL day long. I LOVE how it's ALL about Jesus.❤❤❤❤❤ It brings TOTAL Joy to my life. These Christian Artists are soooo talented and inspired. ❤
I was introduced to Christian artists/music in the late 70s. The Imperials, The Archers, Terry Talbot, Amy Grant and my favorite became Second Chapter of Acts. I still have the albums. I watched a documentary recently called The Jesus Music, it was really good. Brought back good memories.
Super cool couple. The problem you will start to face (if not already), is that as you delve deeper into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, the more you will come to see it's truthfulness. I've spent my whole life going down religious rabbit holes, and I am so grateful to have this one.
It worked the opposite for me. My girlfriend (at the time) introduced me to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in December 1982, and initially I loved everything about the church. My "belief" dissipated as I learned more about it. Thankfully, I refused her requirement to join the church if I wanted to marry her. I've studied the church for over 40 years now, and my faith in the church I attend is stronger than ever.
@@kevins4254 40 years ago there were dozens of alleged anachronisms that critics used to disprove the Book of Mormon and temple ordinances. Since then, they have checked out and can no longer be used to attack the church. There are literally hundreds of examples of items in the Book of Mormon, from Hebraisms to etymology to archeology, linguistics, metallurgy, biology, etc. that have been proven true which would have been 100% impossible for Joseph Smith to have known at the time he translated the book well before the dead seas scrolls, roseta stone mastery, fossil record knowledge, study of the Hopewell people, etc.
@@kevins4254it sounds like to me you are butt-chapped after all these years she wouldn’t marry you. Sounds to me like you’re entrenched and digging in those heals to tell everyone of your great decision. ‘Got it😉
We enjoyed all kinds of music. Concerts, fun nights,fireside’s, but sacrament meetings are more for revence and worship . Love all music, but a time and place foe each of them. Great job.
I totally agree. I listen to klove quite a bit and really enjoy contemporary Christian music, but I definitely wouldn't want it in the sacrament meeting service.
I think a better word for "reverent" music, would be "reflective" or "contemplative" Christian Praise and Worship with a full band can be just as reverent. It's more the attitude of worship you bring to it, not the style itself. All these different kinds of Christian music are good. I wish we had more variety, and believe with the new Hymnal and beyond, we will. If you don't think Gospel music can be reverent, watch the Debra Bonner Gospel Choir. Your heart will be changed. Some of the most powerful times I have felt the Holy Ghost is with these Gospel songs. (And yes.. I do know what the Holy Ghost feels like.) The styles and attitudes we have towards Church music, is mainly a cultural one, and one that can change. It's all good music!! Draw close to the Lord with all the many styles.
Come thou font of every blessing I believe in Christ I know that my Redeemer lives Come come ye saints There is a green hill far away Redeemer of Israel Onward Christian soldiers Praise to the man Jesus once of humble birth How great thou art The Spirit of God like a fire is burning
It was SO COOL having you and your beautiful wife in the loft with us. I’ve watched many of your videos and was excited you both were there singing with us. Thank you for all the good you do in the world! ❤️
We do have a comparable to the Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir! They do evangelical music. My FAVORITE is Psalm 34! It is a MUST listen, Jeff & Joy! Thanks for sharing this video experience. The S. L. Tabernacle Choir is amazing! God Bless from southern Minnesota. I am from Idaho and grew up listening to the Tabernacle Choir. We go the Christian & Missionary Alliance Church of Redwood Falls. I enjoy your channel's content so much. A lot of my family are LDS, in Idaho, AZ, ORE, and WA. When I went to Capital HS in Boise, our Choir Director had been trained in Salt Lake. He was amazing! We all loved his wonderful leadership so much!
My favorite from the Brooklyn Tabernacle choir is Worthy is the Lamb. Such a powerful spirit, like so many hymns from the Tabernacle choir at Temple square..
17+ million members (circa 2024) and most will not ever get this opportunity. What a blessing! It is very rare to sing with and even more rare to be be a part of the Tabernacle Choir. We also have separate choirs at each church, and in each stake, and even youth choirs (as you've probably seen in General Conference). Thanks for sharing this. Favorite Hymn: All Creatures of our God and King
@@toodles241there's more than that. Active membership is more like 25% in Utah and closer to 30 or 40% other parts of the world. So probably more like 5 million or so is a safer guess.
I've been blessed to perform with the Tabernacle Choir as a member of 2 different choirs and I currently sing in the MCO in Dallas. I have also had the opportunity to sing in worship services of various protestant churches and even in some Episcopal cathedrals in Great Britain. There's a verse of LDS scripture that says "the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me," and I fully believe that this applies to all, regardless of denomination; music is a universal method of praise and worship.
Ditto. I joined in 1975, at the age of 20, in La Verne, Ca. I also love where my life is, while leaning on the Lord. It’s still not always easy. But, I know I’m making the right decisions.
This is an excellent example of the power of podcasts. We can experience an event that most of us will never get the opportunity to experience through your lens. Enjoyed this video. Thank you!
May I suggest that you watch "Mr. Krueger's Christmas", a wonderful 25 minute movie in which Jimmy Stewart realizes his dream of singing with the Tabernacle Choir.
I love Mr. Kruegar’s Christmas. I first saw it in about 1980 when it was televised on National TV. I was a missionary at the time. Now every year I watch it on TV at Christmas. It still brings tears to my eyes especially during the manger scene with Jimmy Stewart.
As a descendent of Henry Grow Jr., I loved that you had the opportunity to see and understand the construction of the roof of the tabernacle. A suspension bridge builder in Pennsylvania, he was commissioned by Brigham Young to construct the roof. When asked how big he could build it, he said 100 feet wide and as long as you want. In reality, it wound up being 150 feet wide and 250 feet long using the Remington bridge-style lattice. I was hoping they would give you the pin drop demonstration. The acoustics for this 19th century edifice is quite remarkable. As for your engagement with John Longherst and favorite Protestant songs/hymns, one of my favorites, though I never was Protestant, is Blessed Assurance. A chorister in a ward I was living in, brought that into our choir’s repertoire, I believe because that’s what she grew up singing. Come Thou Fount may be in our new Hymnals, but still sung a lot in the choir. Anyway, great segment. I love seeing you tag team with your wife. I hope you two have been enjoying your move to Utah.
I was brought up from the baby nursery in the Baptist Church till i was 14, then met my husband who was a Latter Day Saint. When i was about 13 my mom and dad separated and she went to work at a cleaners and met some Missionaries who brought their suits in to be cleaned. It was in 1969. She found out that the missionaries depended on church members to feed them. There was only one congregation which covered the Fort Worth, Tx area so they didnt get many meals. My mom told them that she was a dyed in the Wool Baptist and wasnt interested in thier Church but she invited them to come and eat at our dinner table and for the next 18 months we fed them until both missionaries had been sent to another area to share the Gospel. i'lI have 40 years invested in our Latter Day Saint community having joined the Church in 1984. I'll have been married to my wonderful husband for 40 years come This December. Going to visit my husbands family on Thanksgiving 2024. and my son, his wife and my grand son and grandaughter. Cain't wait!
It's sad that these Mormons have deceived you into thinking that they're Bible believing and abiding Christians. They are nothing of the sort. th-cam.com/video/kxnJaFSMpRc/w-d-xo.html The new facelift of lying, deceiving Mormons: th-cam.com/video/CNcHWcz0SrU/w-d-xo.html A case is being heard right now called Laura Gaddy vs the Corporation of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is a class-action against the church for hiding and concealing its true history. th-cam.com/users/shortsBrrx7LUeyHg
My great grandfather was a pioneer who crossed the plains, and later in life became a carpenter who worked on the Salt Lake Tabernacle, and also on the old Salt Lake City and County Building, on what is called Washington Square, which was named for George Washington. It was completed in 1894.
In one ward I belonged to, there was a non- member who played the organ for our sacrament meetings. She always did a spectacular job for us, and she brought a great spirit with her to our meetings.
Dear Pastor Am so happy for u that u visited the church buildings.I'm a chuch member and have not seen what u saw.loved to see how this big piano looks like.Its really big.May you continue to do good.I also thank the choir members for welcoming the Pastor and his wife
My wife’s family descends directly from Henry Grow and we went on that same tour during a Grow family reunion . It was neat to see how the windows worked too. Amazing what he designed and accomplished. Glad you got to play on the organ. I asked before and could not play on it because of tuning going on. It’s a once in a life time chance for sure, even for us members of the church.
My family has one of the original wood organ pipes which I think is really neat to see and hold up close. My great grandpa saved it from being thrown away back in the day after it most likely needed replacing and was placed in the attic. Eventually when work was being done up there it was decided to dispose of any of the pipes being stored taking up space and not being needed anymore. Things were different back then than it is now and honestly you cannot save everything, but he sure did save one of the smaller pipes and I am forever grateful he did so I could grow up with a smidge of that history in my own home.
I agree with Jeff about feeling the spirit with all kinds of music. As an LDS member, I do wish we would incorporate more of a balance of modern and classic hymns. ❤
Spirit of God is very special song. I had the opportunity for being a stones throw from the Prophet at the time when that was played. Goose bump experience for sure
My Fathers fav was always “Oh my Father” so that’s always been special to me. My Father was a good singer. My middle school choir teacher Miss Brim was in the choir
In the back of the LDS Hymn Book, there is a list of meters, and each song that has the same meter. It's a lot of fun to sing different words to different melodies.
There was lots of excitement inside the Choir when people realized that both of you were singing with us. So glad everything came together for this day to happen as it did!
As a Latter Day Saint myself, I was very interested in your videos about your visits. I loved the interface feeling. After all we are all under the same boss!
I am a Latter Day Saint and I just visited a friend's church where they had a more contemporary Christian rock band. I loved it, honestly. The lyrics did invite the spirit and it was a cool experience. MoTab isn't the only kind of music that can invite the spirit!
You are so blessed - you get to do some things that lifelong members dream of. Thank you so much for documenting your experiences. We love you both, thank you! My grandfather was a stone mason from Croatia who left his family at the age of 12 and came to America to seek religious freedom. He built churches in Chicago and Helena, MT for the catholic church. The dedication to religious belief's and sacrifice in the name of Christ transcends family lines. Keep blessing your posterity with greatness.
I don't know if I'll ever get to be in the Tabernacle Choir due to not knowing if we'll ever live in Utah again and also with me having really bad seasonal allergies in Utah, which severely impacts my ability to sing. But I love listening to them every week! How blessed we are to have the Tabernacle Choir in the world! And the accessibility to their music through modern technology!
I love KLove. There is no better thing than listening to music that is constructed in a manner that is similar to secular music, but has uplifting, faith promoting, spirit invoking, lyrics. "God be greater than the worries in my life, be stronger than the weakness in my mind, be louder let your glory come alive, be magnified!"
You guys are two special people.even through these videos you make I can feel your love for the Savior. I was raised a Catholic and joined the church in 1981. I was 21 years old and had just got out of the Army after 3 years of active duty. The following year I was on a mission in Argentina. Keep up the good work.
As a Latter Day Saint, this was my first time to listen to your videos. You are both respectful, insightful, beautiful people, and I enjoyed your presentation of the tabernacle choir and the MTC. I plan on listening to more of your videos. Thank you for your perspective!
I would have always loved to sing with the choir. I did sing with the High School State Choir in the Tabernacle but have not lived in Utah for the last 40 years. What a great experience. Thanks for sharing.
As a music lover I can tell you that it happens in all genres. Not just Christian or religious music. Any song that's played with reverence that invites the peace in our hearts is a sign from God. Nothing that is distracting will quiet the soul. Thanks for sharing your experience. Personally I love quiet respectful music nothing too commercial.
You guys are soooo lucky! You get hooked up with the most amazing tours of things! I'm totally jealous, but really happy for you 😊 I would LOVE to hear Nathan sing "come thou fount" with the Tabernacle Choir. I'm glad that you put it out there. 😊 I love the song "What a friend we have in Jesus." It has long been one of my favorites 😍. It is even more touching when you know the heartbreak the author suffered in his lifetime. This was fun. Thanks for taking us along.
I have several favorite hymns for different reasons, but my father was the son of a Methodist Minister, my grandfather, before joining the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have a tape of dad singing a solo of "How Great Thou Art" at a funeral. It was beautiful to be sure!❤
Wow! You got an experience that most of us who are Latter-day Saints will never get! I would love to see the rafters and construction of the Tabernacle!
Thanks Jeff for sharing that moment with us. Your channel gives me hope that we can build brides of understanding and respect for other those despite differences in faith. I have a lot of respect for what you are doing. I love listening to Christian and gospel music that have led to spiritual experiences and have strengthened my faith.
Amazing experience! As a Latter Day Saint, I feel a movement from my fellow members to maintain our love for sacred style music but also acceptance and love to other styles of praise music! Love it!
This is great. May we all be Christlike and help each other in this world, regardless of creed or cultural background, to be true disciples of Christ and draw close to Him.
Something is happening to you two… a change, perhaps countenance … it’s soft and beautiful. Continue, w/faith, to allow our Heavenly Father to soften and mold you into what He will have of you. As highly sought after influencers, I pray that through your journey and understandings of His church; The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that you’ll both have the faith, and more so, courage needed to take the next step. Jeff, Joy, know that irreverent and unfavorably comments you’d surely receive do not come from Him. That they come from the adversary only to deceive the righteous. Stand tall, call upon Father and together there is no greater power. I love you both, we love you…
Wonderful to see you both participating in the Latter Day Saint celebration of faith through music and worship for whom the Lord in D&C 20 promises a blessing, "For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads."😇
I had the opportunity to sing in the Tabernacle during a regional conference and the acoustics in those choir seats is so trippy! I couldn’t hear anyone else around me because the sound carries forward instead of sideways and all around you, so it sounded to me like I was doing a solo. 🤣😬 What an amazing opportunity you guys had, especially playing the organ because I know they usually don’t allow “tourists” to play it! I love all these videos you have been making - keep them coming! 🙌🏼 (Oh, and my favorite hymn is Come, Come Ye Saints. I love the message in that song about staying positive during hard trials. I feel the Spirit every time I hear it or sing it.)
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Gilbert Arizona and we have a Christmas concert every year at our Stake Center where we invite choirs from other churches, and schools to perform and worship with us.
I love watching your videos. I hope people will be more interested in seeing how others worship. We enjoy going to friends churches and when on vacation we like to visit the dominant church in the area. It helps us to see and feel that all of us are really not that different. We have different ways of expressing our love of to our Heavenly Father.
This was such a treat! Thank you for this! I'm glad you got this amazing experience! I wish I could see in the rafters. I love that pipe organ. Music is universal. I love church songs and gospel songs and different hymns. I love worshiping through music!
LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this video! You and Joy have to be in cloud 9! I know I would be, If I COULD PLAY THE ORGAN, SING WITH THE TABERNACLE CHOIR, EXPLORE THE AREAS BEHIND THE PIPES AND ABOVE THE ROOM! You have been blessed, and I'm excited for you both and grateful that you shared with us!❤
I respected Joy's calculated thought provoking question concerning whether a non-LDS choir or organization would welcome a LDS member as a visitor. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I might wonder if I had only experienced the vitriol shouted by some at a General Conference. However; I can honestly say that the vast majority of non-LDS Christians have if anything improved my own discipleship of Jesus Christ through me wanting to emulate Christians of other denominations' amazingly wonderful examples.
Did they, by chance, mention the process of becoming a member of the choir? It's quite something! So glad you were able to experience it all. Great video!!
Absolutely. It was fun for me to see music students of mine who were starting to be more advanced and their parents would have wanted people like me to keep all religion our of their education...but the farther along you go, the more music history is related to religious belief of some kind and you can't really experience or discuss it without bringing up religion somehow.
You guys are so awesome! Thank you for sharing your powerful thoughts and insights about The Church of Jesus Christ and your experiences with extraordinary leadership!
You guys lived my impossible dream! Would love to sing with the choir. Unfortunately, my voice isn't even close to good enough. Maybe in the next life.
I and my family members for several generations have been LDS who have been musicians and played in and for other churches and their services, weddings, funerals etc., and various of our LDS congregations around various countries have had years-long traditions of Interfaith concerts for our communities, and they are usually held in the other denominations' churches. People are mostly very gracious and welcoming.
This video was a delight to watch. As a Latter Day Saint, I appreciate your friendly and humble approach to this exploration/conversation you’re doing. As you talked about different music styles in different church traditions, my heart was touched. We are all trying to commune with God and draw closer to Jesus Christ. I have had the opportunity to attend some Protestant services with friends. And yes, the music presentation was different than LDS music traditions, but I could feel the spirit there. I think it is fair to say that we all have things to learn from each other. Whether you’re Catholic, Protestant, LDS, or any group that seeks to follow Christ, we are all, “Seeing through a glass darkly,” and there is so much more that we share than where we may differ. Keep up the good work! ❤
This was an unforgettable experience! What is your favorite hymn?
I Know That My Redeemer Lives.
I love that one. Lots of great ones though.
I love the background tours. As Security, we have access to all of those behind-the-scenes areas, and I have explored all of the nooks and crannies of the buildings on property.
Beautiful Zion, Built Above. That's the one I want played at my funeral.
Speaking of getting words and tunes mixed up... Amazing Grace can be sung to the tune of the Theme from Gilligan's Island.
The Spirit of God
I am a Latter-day Saint (and retired member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square) and recently moved to a medium-sized town in north central Missouri. The local Presbyterian church invited me to join them for their Christmas Vespers concert the week before last Christmas, and then I was invited back to be a featured soloist for their Easter Program singing "The Trumpet Shall Sound" from Messiah. They were very welcoming and inviting and we shared some great musical moments together.
Members of the choir are literally set apart as music missionaries.
What an amazing experience! ❤
Really? I did not know that! So cool!!
It was great having you with us in rehearsal. You are right that we consider it a great privilege to be in the choir. There are many fabulous musicians who never have the opportunity to be part of a group of this caliber. I was excited to see you join us for an evening.
You got to experience what 99.9% of all the memebers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day saints have not experienced. I hope your visit was a rewarding experience.
Love your videos! I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and I feel like God is trying to bring all of us who believe in Christ together. As the world gets more difficult we will only be able to rely on Christ and fellow Christians to reach the end of the race as Paul said. Thank you for letting other Christians see who we are. Thank you for being courageous enough to reach out to us Latter Day Saints.
I was a Protestant (Presbyterian) when I was a boy, but I joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 33 years of age in 1985, and still am active in the Church. The Tabernacle Choir and organists and Orchestra at Temple Square are Heaven on Earth - a true blessing to the Church and to the world...
They have a false gospel and they teach falsely about God having becone a god among countless gods and that you can too. They're super nice people, but they are on a false way.
My dear friend, and with all the sweetness I can muster, really. Your religion is based on the Nicene creed, which is not in the Bible or given by a prophet, but was a compromise, a compromise! It was an effort to get a compromise between a vast number of groups who didn’t agree over the nature of God and many other points of doctrine. It was presided over by a rank Pagan who didn’t know any doctrine and probably didn’t care. It was a mass of confusion!
Joseph Smith, a real prophet, simply declared, “I saw two personages, and one of them said, This is my Beloved Son!” In the New Testament, Jesus prayed every day to his father! John declares Jesus to be God’s only begotten son. Do I need to explain begotten to you? Please don’t call our doctrines false!
What would cause you to join a false church like this?
@@dalechristensen1168 Your doctrines are false. And I am sorry and sad to say it. Joseph fails the two tests of a prophet given in Deuteronomy. Yes, please, look into the meaning of the Greek word translated as begotten there. Jesus was not created but is God. I'm sorry to be blunt, but I believe our time may be short before Christ returns. Pandering is a luxury that we do not have now. God did not become a god among countless gods and you will not be a god. Joseph was a false prophet leading SO many astray. But, the good news is that we may come to the true Jesus and He will give us life. God's word is true. His word will never pass away. Although heaven and earth will pass away, God's word is true and will not.
@@dnzswithwombatsstereotypical hate without knowing what he’s talking about. So disappointing
When I was living in Mississippi, there wasn't a Latter Day Saint ward choir. I was invited to sing with the local Baptist choir. The spirit was there and the words we sang were true. It was a wonderful opportunity to bridge our faiths and find common ground 😊
Wow! Even Latter-day Saints don’t typically get this kind of opportunity! Super awesome that you got the chance to do this.
Richard Elliott is every one’s favorite. You were very lucky to meet him. He is the best. He is a Latter Day Saint treasure.
When I was 14 one of the tabernacle organists was in my ward. To motivate my brother and me to learn to play hymns, he set us a goal of each learning 12 hymns. As a reward for achieving the goal, he rewarded us by allowing us to play this incredible organ.
I'm a Latter-Day Saint, but converted in my 20's. I know ALL the hymns you mentioned! The LDS Church sings so many of the same songs and hymns as the protestant churches, yet many got "lost" as our hymnbooks were changed over time. My grandmother taught me the old hymns (the Old Rugged Cross, I Walk in the Garden, etc.), and many others I learned in Vacation bible school. What you all are doing is Fantastic!! Thank you so much!!
I’m in the choir but I was sick that day and soooo sad I missed the chance to meet you and Joy. I hope you had a wonderful experience.
Jeff, Joy, I am one of the cellists in Millennial Choirs and Orchestras (MCO) and was very pleased to hear that you and your wife attended one of our concerts! I hope we were able to help you feel the love of the Savior and draw nearer to Him. We love what we do. I'll also mention that MCO is an interfaith group, although most, like me, are LDS. It's a group that is open to anyone who believes in Christ. You should come and join us!
+1 I sing baritone in the choir down in Austin. Was delighted to see them mention it in one of their videos
Oh, that all believers could show one another this type of openness, respect, and desire to learn more about one another.
I love that the songs Israel, Israel, God is Calling and What a Friend we have in Jesus were mentioned. I am non-LDS, brought up Protestant and was listening to the Tabernacle Choir on TV and I recognized the melody to What a Friend we have in Jesus. I was happy to recognize a familiar song but when the choir sang they were not the lyrics I was expecting. This is how I became acquainted with Israel, Israel, God is Calling.
I absolutely love both of those songs! I guess that I'm a little dense because it never donned on me that they share the same music 😂
Love both lyrics, but I prefer What A Friend We Have in Jesus.
There's an apocryphal story that Israel A. Smith, grandson of Joseph Smith, and president of the RLDS Church, once visited his Utah cousins, and was invited to attend a session of General Conference. From the pulpit, LDS leaders welcomed Brother Israel Smith, and then announced that the opening hymn would be "Israel, Israel, God Is Calling."
@@chipwhitmer7449 that's cute 😍
That's awesome!! 😂😅
Watching the videos, the feeling I always have is that it would be so nice if all people, from the most diverse denominations, had this open mind and understanding that we are one big family, all children of God. Surely we would see many more miracles. Congratulations to the couple for the wonderful work.
I feel the same way.
Do you love Pastor Jeff? Watch this video... th-cam.com/video/4lruQbBdRkA/w-d-xo.htmlsi=Yvvd7F08dv_pL-2y
Mormonism is not a denomination of Christianity-- their leadership lies to you constantly to cover up this FACT of history. They also discourage you from thinking and investigating it for yourself, not having any degree of informed consent to know the truth. th-cam.com/users/shortsBrrx7LUeyHg
So glad you got this opportunity. My father joined the Tabernacle Choir around 1936 @ 21 years old. He eventually became the Stage Manager and retired from that position in 1992; after 56 years of service, all volunteer. The choir and Tabernacle was a big part of my life growing up. I've seen those behind-the-scenes things you got to experience and this brought back good memories. I think music is one area we can always come together on, because in many ways, music transcends the logical, rational mind, and speaks directly to the soul. Thank you for bringing us along on your journey, Pastor Jeff.
I Stand All Amazed. I Believe in Christ are 2 of my favorite out of SO MANY.
Can I just say that I love you Jeff and Joy! You have the kindest, most Christ-like hearts, and I’m thrilled you got to have this experience!! 🥰❤️
You two are so pleasantly beautiful, gentle, and polite. I am so grateful that people of different religions can be friends as we all reverence our God who created us all.
I don't think people realize the full meaning of High to Kolob, basically worlds don't end, priesthood doesn't end. Which is one of my favorites.
One of my favorites also! We are eternal beings. (by the way, it's "Hie to Kolob", not "high". Hie means to go quickly; with haste.
That's interesting, do you have any examples?
@@dorar6123 Watch Greg Matson's (CWIC Media channel) podcast from a couple days ago (May 20) with Bruce Porter, speaking about temple and religious references found within the Egypt temples, as well as religious and cultural references. FASCINATING!
There's another song with the same tune called "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say." I put them both in a playlist (including a version of a The Killers song witht he same tune) as if it were telling a story of a sinner returning to God through Christ.
Sidenote: I heave heard that Kolob as being interpreted as an intricate metaphor for Christ, which is fitting when you compare "If You Could Hie To Kolob" and "I Heard The Voice of Jesus Say"
This is great hope to go see the Salt Lake Temple once the renovation is complete
The Tabernacle was built from 1863 to 1875 by the brightest minds and the hardiest Pioneers. That said for what it is and when it was built, it is amazing world wide. The sound in the building was the number one issue in 1863. The shape is to make sure everyone in the building can hear the speaker before speakers and microphones.
Wow….! And when I think your videos can’t get any better, you go and knock one out of the park…. Thank you for the behind the scenes peeks into what I’ve seen only in photos in the past 52 years of membership. Thank you… You guys are best when you are together…. Love you both….
Ditto!
Thank you for being an unofficial ambassador for the Church of Christ!❤
You should try listening to Mack Wilberg's arrangement of Come Thou Fount performed by the Tabernacle Choir. When I sang with the choir, I found myself unable to continue singing it because of the emotions it produced. It is a stunning piece of music.
When I heard contemporary Christian music for the first time I became hooked. I listen to it ALL day long. I LOVE how it's ALL about Jesus.❤❤❤❤❤ It brings TOTAL Joy to my life. These Christian Artists are soooo talented and inspired. ❤
I encourage you to look up the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir-and listen to Psalm 34. It is contemporary and Choir music all together! God Bless You!
@@cindygoblirsch9438 I have listened to Brooklyn Tabernacle and enjoy their music. I have psalm 34 by Shane and Shane.❤️🥰
I was introduced to Christian artists/music in the late 70s. The Imperials, The Archers, Terry Talbot, Amy Grant and my favorite became Second Chapter of Acts. I still have the albums. I watched a documentary recently called The Jesus Music, it was really good. Brought back good memories.
Super cool couple. The problem you will start to face (if not already), is that as you delve deeper into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, the more you will come to see it's truthfulness. I've spent my whole life going down religious rabbit holes, and I am so grateful to have this one.
It worked the opposite for me. My girlfriend (at the time) introduced me to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in December 1982, and initially I loved everything about the church. My "belief" dissipated as I learned more about it. Thankfully, I refused her requirement to join the church if I wanted to marry her. I've studied the church for over 40 years now, and my faith in the church I attend is stronger than ever.
@@kevins4254 40 years ago there were dozens of alleged anachronisms that critics used to disprove the Book of Mormon and temple ordinances. Since then, they have checked out and can no longer be used to attack the church. There are literally hundreds of examples of items in the Book of Mormon, from Hebraisms to etymology to archeology, linguistics, metallurgy, biology, etc. that have been proven true which would have been 100% impossible for Joseph Smith to have known at the time he translated the book well before the dead seas scrolls, roseta stone mastery, fossil record knowledge, study of the Hopewell people, etc.
@@kevins4254it sounds like to me you are butt-chapped after all these years she wouldn’t marry you. Sounds to me like you’re entrenched and digging in those heals to tell everyone of your great decision. ‘Got it😉
We enjoyed all kinds of music. Concerts, fun nights,fireside’s, but sacrament meetings are more for revence and worship . Love all music, but a time and place foe each of them. Great job.
I totally agree. I listen to klove quite a bit and really enjoy contemporary Christian music, but I definitely wouldn't want it in the sacrament meeting service.
I think a better word for "reverent" music, would be "reflective" or "contemplative" Christian Praise and Worship with a full band can be just as reverent. It's more the attitude of worship you bring to it, not the style itself. All these different kinds of Christian music are good. I wish we had more variety, and believe with the new Hymnal and beyond, we will. If you don't think Gospel music can be reverent, watch the Debra Bonner Gospel Choir. Your heart will be changed. Some of the most powerful times I have felt the Holy Ghost is with these Gospel songs. (And yes.. I do know what the Holy Ghost feels like.) The styles and attitudes we have towards Church music, is mainly a cultural one, and one that can change. It's all good music!! Draw close to the Lord with all the many styles.
“The posture of our hearts” was a great way to contextualize how a person experiences music during worship.
Come thou font of every blessing
I believe in Christ
I know that my Redeemer lives
Come come ye saints
There is a green hill far away
Redeemer of Israel
Onward Christian soldiers
Praise to the man
Jesus once of humble birth
How great thou art
The Spirit of God like a fire is burning
Yes! You've got some fantastic choices on that list!!
I need thee every hour
@kellythomp1, we sang that in church today! 😊 It should definitely be added to any favorites list!
@@gwengold8154 😄 that made me laugh 😎❤️
It was SO COOL having you and your beautiful wife in the loft with us. I’ve watched many of your videos and was excited you both were there singing with us. Thank you for all the good you do in the world! ❤️
What an amazing experience. I love the fellowship you’ve fostered with us and hope you feel absolutely welcome and loved.
We do have a comparable to the Salt Lake Tabernacle Choir, the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir! They do evangelical music. My FAVORITE is Psalm 34! It is a MUST listen, Jeff & Joy! Thanks for sharing this video experience. The S. L. Tabernacle Choir is amazing! God Bless from southern Minnesota. I am from Idaho and grew up listening to the Tabernacle Choir. We go the Christian & Missionary Alliance Church of Redwood Falls. I enjoy your channel's content so much. A lot of my family are LDS, in Idaho, AZ, ORE, and WA.
When I went to Capital HS in Boise, our Choir Director had been trained in Salt Lake. He was amazing! We all loved his wonderful leadership so much!
The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, has always been amazing. I love them!!
My favorite from the Brooklyn Tabernacle choir is Worthy is the Lamb. Such a powerful spirit, like so many hymns from the Tabernacle choir at Temple square..
17+ million members (circa 2024) and most will not ever get this opportunity. What a blessing! It is very rare to sing with and even more rare to be be a part of the Tabernacle Choir. We also have separate choirs at each church, and in each stake, and even youth choirs (as you've probably seen in General Conference). Thanks for sharing this.
Favorite Hymn: All Creatures of our God and King
Maybe 2 million active members
I was baptized long ago in the tabernacle as a child.
@@toodles241there's more than that. Active membership is more like 25% in Utah and closer to 30 or 40% other parts of the world. So probably more like 5 million or so is a safer guess.
I've been blessed to perform with the Tabernacle Choir as a member of 2 different choirs and I currently sing in the MCO in Dallas. I have also had the opportunity to sing in worship services of various protestant churches and even in some Episcopal cathedrals in Great Britain. There's a verse of LDS scripture that says "the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me," and I fully believe that this applies to all, regardless of denomination; music is a universal method of praise and worship.
I joined the Church when I was 22 in Long Beach Ca it was 1977. I now love were my life is and leaning on the Lord have made it almost to 75 years.
Ditto. I joined in 1975, at the age of 20, in La Verne, Ca. I also love where my life is, while leaning on the Lord. It’s still not always easy. But, I know I’m making the right decisions.
This is an excellent example of the power of podcasts. We can experience an event that most of us will never get the opportunity to experience through your lens. Enjoyed this video. Thank you!
May I suggest that you watch "Mr. Krueger's Christmas", a wonderful 25 minute movie in which Jimmy Stewart realizes his dream of singing with the Tabernacle Choir.
I love Mr. Kruegar’s Christmas. I first saw it in about 1980 when it was televised on National TV. I was a missionary at the time. Now every year I watch it on TV at Christmas. It still brings tears to my eyes especially during the manger scene with Jimmy Stewart.
As a descendent of Henry Grow Jr., I loved that you had the opportunity to see and understand the construction of the roof of the tabernacle. A suspension bridge builder in Pennsylvania, he was commissioned by Brigham Young to construct the roof. When asked how big he could build it, he said 100 feet wide and as long as you want. In reality, it wound up being 150 feet wide and 250 feet long using the Remington bridge-style lattice.
I was hoping they would give you the pin drop demonstration. The acoustics for this 19th century edifice is quite remarkable.
As for your engagement with John Longherst and favorite Protestant songs/hymns, one of my favorites, though I never was Protestant, is Blessed Assurance. A chorister in a ward I was living in, brought that into our choir’s repertoire, I believe because that’s what she grew up singing. Come Thou Fount may be in our new Hymnals, but still sung a lot in the choir.
Anyway, great segment. I love seeing you tag team with your wife. I hope you two have been enjoying your move to Utah.
I was brought up from the baby nursery in the Baptist Church till i was 14, then met my husband who was a Latter Day Saint. When i was about 13 my mom and dad separated and she went to work at a cleaners and met some Missionaries who brought their suits in to be cleaned. It was in 1969. She found out that the missionaries depended on church members to feed them. There was only one congregation which covered the Fort Worth, Tx area so they didnt get many meals.
My mom told them that she was a dyed in the Wool Baptist and wasnt interested in thier Church but she invited them to come and eat at our dinner table and for the next 18 months we fed them until both missionaries had been sent to another area to share the Gospel. i'lI have 40 years invested in our Latter Day Saint community having joined the Church in 1984. I'll have been married to my wonderful husband for 40 years come This December. Going to visit my husbands family on Thanksgiving 2024. and my son, his wife and my grand son and grandaughter. Cain't wait!
It's sad that these Mormons have deceived you into thinking that they're Bible believing and abiding Christians. They are nothing of the sort. th-cam.com/video/kxnJaFSMpRc/w-d-xo.html
The new facelift of lying, deceiving Mormons: th-cam.com/video/CNcHWcz0SrU/w-d-xo.html
A case is being heard right now called Laura Gaddy vs the Corporation of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is a class-action against the church for hiding and concealing its true history.
th-cam.com/users/shortsBrrx7LUeyHg
My great grandfather was a pioneer who crossed the plains, and later in life became a carpenter who worked on the Salt Lake Tabernacle, and also on the old Salt Lake City and County Building, on what is called Washington Square, which was named for George Washington. It was completed in 1894.
In one ward I belonged to, there was a non- member who played the organ for our sacrament meetings. She always did a spectacular job for us, and she brought a great spirit with her to our meetings.
This is simply wonderful! I love that we embrace one another through Christ. God bless you Pastor.
Dear Pastor
Am so happy for u that u visited the church buildings.I'm a chuch member and have not seen what u saw.loved to see how this big piano looks like.Its really big.May you continue to do good.I also thank the choir members for welcoming the Pastor and his wife
My wife’s family descends directly from Henry Grow and we went on that same tour during a Grow family reunion . It was neat to see how the windows worked too. Amazing what he designed and accomplished. Glad you got to play on the organ. I asked before and could not play on it because of tuning going on. It’s a once in a life time chance for sure, even for us members of the church.
I love how knowledgeable he was about the hymns and the history. Fun conversation to listen to, thank you
My family has one of the original wood organ pipes which I think is really neat to see and hold up close. My great grandpa saved it from being thrown away back in the day after it most likely needed replacing and was placed in the attic. Eventually when work was being done up there it was decided to dispose of any of the pipes being stored taking up space and not being needed anymore. Things were different back then than it is now and honestly you cannot save everything, but he sure did save one of the smaller pipes and I am forever grateful he did so I could grow up with a smidge of that history in my own home.
I agree with Jeff about feeling the spirit with all kinds of music. As an LDS member, I do wish we would incorporate more of a balance of modern and classic hymns. ❤
My favorite hymn is, “Lead, Kindly Light.”
Cute shoes! Mrs. Pastor Jeff! (The ones when playing the organ) Great job you guys 🫶❤
Great pick! I LOVE that one.
Rick Elliott is just one of the best organists and nicest guys there is!
Spirit of God and Hye to Kolob are my favorite hymns!
Spirit of God is very special song. I had the opportunity for being a stones throw from the Prophet at the time when that was played. Goose bump experience for sure
My Fathers fav was always “Oh my Father” so that’s always been special to me. My Father was a good singer. My middle school choir teacher Miss Brim was in the choir
Great video! I love that they let you have access to places that most people don't get to see. Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
In the back of the LDS Hymn Book, there is a list of meters, and each song that has the same meter. It's a lot of fun to sing different words to different melodies.
There was lots of excitement inside the Choir when people realized that both of you were singing with us. So glad everything came together for this day to happen as it did!
As a Latter Day Saint myself, I was very interested in your videos about your visits. I loved the interface feeling. After all we are all under the same boss!
I am a Latter Day Saint and I just visited a friend's church where they had a more contemporary Christian rock band. I loved it, honestly. The lyrics did invite the spirit and it was a cool experience. MoTab isn't the only kind of music that can invite the spirit!
You are so blessed - you get to do some things that lifelong members dream of. Thank you so much for documenting your experiences. We love you both, thank you! My grandfather was a stone mason from Croatia who left his family at the age of 12 and came to America to seek religious freedom. He built churches in Chicago and Helena, MT for the catholic church. The dedication to religious belief's and sacrifice in the name of Christ transcends family lines. Keep blessing your posterity with greatness.
I don't know if I'll ever get to be in the Tabernacle Choir due to not knowing if we'll ever live in Utah again and also with me having really bad seasonal allergies in Utah, which severely impacts my ability to sing. But I love listening to them every week! How blessed we are to have the Tabernacle Choir in the world! And the accessibility to their music through modern technology!
I love KLove. There is no better thing than listening to music that is constructed in a manner that is similar to secular music, but has uplifting, faith promoting, spirit invoking, lyrics.
"God be greater than the worries in my life, be stronger than the weakness in my mind, be louder let your glory come alive, be magnified!"
Thank you for your sharing your journey. Just know that we love and appreciate you and that you belong😇
You guys are two special people.even through these videos you make I can feel your love for the Savior. I was raised a Catholic and joined the church in 1981. I was 21 years old and had just got out of the Army after 3 years of active duty. The following year I was on a mission in Argentina. Keep up the good work.
And truely one of my favorite hymns is "Brightly Beams Our Father's Mercy". The words are so explanatory of my hope for mankind.
What an awesome experience for you two! Thank you for sharing it.
Music is the universal language in many ways, and can bridge any divide between people of different cultures or religions.
As a Latter Day Saint, this was my first time to listen to your videos. You are both respectful, insightful, beautiful people, and I enjoyed your presentation of the tabernacle choir and the MTC. I plan on listening to more of your videos. Thank you for your perspective!
I would have always loved to sing with the choir. I did sing with the High School State Choir in the Tabernacle but have not lived in Utah for the last 40 years. What a great experience. Thanks for sharing.
As a music lover I can tell you that it happens in all genres. Not just Christian or religious music. Any song that's played with reverence that invites the peace in our hearts is a sign from God. Nothing that is distracting will quiet the soul. Thanks for sharing your experience. Personally I love quiet respectful music nothing too commercial.
You guys are soooo lucky! You get hooked up with the most amazing tours of things! I'm totally jealous, but really happy for you 😊
I would LOVE to hear Nathan sing "come thou fount" with the Tabernacle Choir. I'm glad that you put it out there. 😊
I love the song "What a friend we have in Jesus." It has long been one of my favorites 😍. It is even more touching when you know the heartbreak the author suffered in his lifetime.
This was fun. Thanks for taking us along.
I have several favorite hymns for different reasons, but my father was the son of a Methodist Minister, my grandfather, before joining the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I have a tape of dad singing a solo of "How Great Thou Art" at a funeral. It was beautiful to be sure!❤
Though maybe not a traditional hymn - I LOVE the newer children’s song “Gethsemane.” Check it out- it’s a good one!
Oh, man. That'd be a dream come true for me! So glad you got to praise God in song, like that, and with a world class choir to boot!
Wow! You got an experience that most of us who are Latter-day Saints will never get! I would love to see the rafters and construction of the Tabernacle!
What an awesome and amazing experience for both you and Joy!
Thanks Jeff for sharing that moment with us. Your channel gives me hope that we can build brides of understanding and respect for other those despite differences in faith. I have a lot of respect for what you are doing. I love listening to Christian and gospel music that have led to spiritual experiences and have strengthened my faith.
Amazing experience! As a Latter Day Saint, I feel a movement from my fellow members to maintain our love for sacred style music but also acceptance and love to other styles of praise music! Love it!
This is great. May we all be Christlike and help each other in this world, regardless of creed or cultural background, to be true disciples of Christ and draw close to Him.
Something is happening to you two… a change, perhaps countenance … it’s soft and beautiful. Continue, w/faith, to allow our Heavenly Father to soften and mold you into what He will have of you. As highly sought after influencers, I pray that through your journey and understandings of His church; The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that you’ll both have the faith, and more so, courage needed to take the next step. Jeff, Joy, know that irreverent and unfavorably comments you’d surely receive do not come from Him. That they come from the adversary only to deceive the righteous. Stand tall, call upon Father and together there is no greater power. I love you both, we love you…
Wonderful to see you both participating in the Latter Day Saint celebration of faith through music and worship for whom the Lord in D&C 20 promises a blessing, "For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads."😇
I had the opportunity to sing in the Tabernacle during a regional conference and the acoustics in those choir seats is so trippy! I couldn’t hear anyone else around me because the sound carries forward instead of sideways and all around you, so it sounded to me like I was doing a solo. 🤣😬 What an amazing opportunity you guys had, especially playing the organ because I know they usually don’t allow “tourists” to play it! I love all these videos you have been making - keep them coming! 🙌🏼 (Oh, and my favorite hymn is Come, Come Ye Saints. I love the message in that song about staying positive during hard trials. I feel the Spirit every time I hear it or sing it.)
I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Gilbert Arizona and we have a Christmas concert every year at our Stake Center where we invite choirs from other churches, and schools to perform and worship with us.
I love watching your videos.
I hope people will be more interested in seeing how others worship. We enjoy going to friends churches and when on vacation we like to visit the dominant church in the area. It helps us to see and feel that all of us are really not that different. We have different ways of expressing our love of to our Heavenly Father.
You guys are so lucky. What a great experience
This was such a treat! Thank you for this! I'm glad you got this amazing experience! I wish I could see in the rafters. I love that pipe organ. Music is universal. I love church songs and gospel songs and different hymns. I love worshiping through music!
This was enjoyable. Thank you both for your openness and genuine goodness.
How Great Thou Art is simply put my very favorite song ever. Amazing Grace is my second all time favorite.
LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this video! You and Joy have to be in cloud 9! I know I would be, If I COULD PLAY THE ORGAN, SING WITH THE TABERNACLE CHOIR, EXPLORE THE AREAS BEHIND THE PIPES AND ABOVE THE ROOM! You have been blessed, and I'm excited for you both and grateful that you shared with us!❤
I’m in the choir and enjoyed having you with us that night!! Fun to listen to your perception. Always a pleasure to connect with fellow musicians!!!❤
I am a child of God has always been my favorite hymn. I used to sing it to my daughter when she was a baby.
I respected Joy's calculated thought provoking question concerning whether a non-LDS choir or organization would welcome a LDS member as a visitor. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, I might wonder if I had only experienced the vitriol shouted by some at a General Conference. However; I can honestly say that the vast majority of non-LDS Christians have if anything improved my own discipleship of Jesus Christ through me wanting to emulate Christians of other denominations' amazingly wonderful examples.
Did they, by chance, mention the process of becoming a member of the choir? It's quite something! So glad you were able to experience it all. Great video!!
You both are doing so much good to bring us all together and share our similarities no matter what denomination. From my heart… thank you🙏🏻❣️
What an amazing experience. Music and faith just go hand in hand, no matter your background.
Absolutely. It was fun for me to see music students of mine who were starting to be more advanced and their parents would have wanted people like me to keep all religion our of their education...but the farther along you go, the more music history is related to religious belief of some kind and you can't really experience or discuss it without bringing up religion somehow.
You guys are so awesome! Thank you for sharing your powerful thoughts and insights about The Church of Jesus Christ and your experiences with extraordinary leadership!
awesome! Thanks for joining us. So fun to watch your journey.
You guys lived my impossible dream! Would love to sing with the choir. Unfortunately, my voice isn't even close to good enough. Maybe in the next life.
Awesome 👏. Amazing Grace at the last conference was so great it’s been my go to lately. Always liked Teach me to walk in the light .
I and my family members for several generations have been LDS who have been musicians and played in and for other churches and their services, weddings, funerals etc., and various of our LDS congregations around various countries have had years-long traditions of Interfaith concerts for our communities, and they are usually held in the other denominations' churches. People are mostly very gracious and welcoming.
This video was a delight to watch. As a Latter Day Saint, I appreciate your friendly and humble approach to this exploration/conversation you’re doing.
As you talked about different music styles in different church traditions, my heart was touched. We are all trying to commune with God and draw closer to Jesus Christ.
I have had the opportunity to attend some Protestant services with friends. And yes, the music presentation was different than LDS music traditions, but I could feel the spirit there. I think it is fair to say that we all have things to learn from each other.
Whether you’re Catholic, Protestant, LDS, or any group that seeks to follow Christ, we are all, “Seeing through a glass darkly,” and there is so much more that we share than where we may differ.
Keep up the good work! ❤