Church News - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Priesthood session

Published: Saturday, April 12, 1997

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Session speakers

President Gordon B. Hinckley

President Thomas S. Monson of the First Presidency

President James E. Faust of the First Presidency

Elder David B. Haight of the Quorum of the Twelve

Elder Jack H Goaslind of the Presidency of the Seventy

- A stirring rendition of the great Evan Stephens anthem "Let the Mountains Shout for Joy" by the Ricks College Combined Men's Choirs at the priesthood session evoked the image of LDS pioneers literally or figuratively making the wilderness "blossom as the rose."

Elder David B. Haight commented on the song in his address, noting that with the growth of Zion, Church members today, as in former times, can shout for joy.

The Tabernacle, filled to capacity with men and boys holding the priesthood of God, was a testament to the fulfillment of prophecies in Isaiah 35:1-2; 56:12, and elsewhere - on which the anthem text is based - that God's kingdom would flourish in the day of restoration.

Kevin Brower and Steve Dresen directed the choirs, accompanied by organist Richard Elliott. The invocation was given by Elder Alexander B. Morrison and the benediction by Elder Augusto A. Lim, both of the Seventy.