MTC #195 - Happy Birthday Tabernacle!

Today was a special day for the dear old Tabernacle. She turned 150! It seemed only fitting that we dedicate today's Music and the Spoken Word program to celebrating not only this unique and important structure, but those who helped worked so hard to build it. There's a great write-up here, and here, if you'd like to check 'em out. One paragraph from Bro. Newell's spoken word today: 

"Just as people have personalities, this building has a personality. Like the pioneers who built it, the Tabernacle is hardy and resilient, yet warm and welcoming, venerable while also true to its humble roots. And even after all these years, it retains its original pioneer character. Other than some seismic and technological updates, the Tabernacle’s unique appearance, its 19th-century craftsmanship, and its renowned acoustics have remained unchanged. This beloved companion and friend is today, as it was 150 years ago, a peaceful place of history, beauty, worship, and refuge."

Along with the other great songs we sang today, my favorite was "The Spirit of God." Almost every time we sing that song, I feel like the choir is joined with individuals from the other side of the veil, many of who were present at the Kirtland Temple Dedication in 1836 when the hymn was first sung. There's just something special about that song. Each  time I get to sing it, I get tingly and teary. 

Three choir members providing the opening for The Spirit of God

I have to comment on one other thing today that impacted me--unrelated to the Tabernacle's birthday. When Jason (middle, above) started singing the first verse, Mack Wilberg, who was conducting, was carefully paying attention to how the solo was sounding. A few seconds into it, he gave a warm smile and encouraging gestures that instantly communicated back a sense of confidence and gratitude. Then when Matt (right) came in, the same thing occurred after he pointed down, signaling Matt to adjust his pitch down just slightly. I can't really describe the whole interchange, but it was as if Mack was lending them not only his music expertise, but his love, encouragement, and gratitude as well. 

On one level, love is what the Tabernacle is, and has always been, about. It's a building where people from around the world both perform, and listen, to songs and music about the love that our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have for everyone. It's a place that provides encouragement and peace for all who enter. I'm really grateful that I get to sing in this building each week, and see how the spirit here impacts so many. 

Until next time God be with you.

One of the veterans of the choir pointed this out to me. If you look at
the back of Tabernacle, where the light shines in the corner, you'll note
there are four "sentinels" keeping watch over the building.

A copy of the program from today's broadcast. Also, they gave us
this cool commemorative "150".