This is #13 in a series of posts in which I share some of the things I have experienced because I am a Mormon. In each of these posts, I will give you a basic background and share a small experience. I hope that through the sharing of these small things you can have a glimpse into my experience as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I will also try to explain principles and doctrines of my faith that bring me so much happiness.

Angels, in the attitude of singing

I was probably four years old sitting in the old chapel with peachy colored pews without cushions. The windows were full of light and I looked around, studying the things a child studies during church, such as the shape of the light fixtures, the tall ceiling, and the curtains on the windows. I know we always attended church, but childhood memories of church meetings are few; this one became very important.

The white-haired chorister, a widow named Lera Whittle, sister of Ezra Taft Benson, stood up with her baton to lead the hymn, Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel. The congregation stood up to sing. Sister Whittle’s baton moved with the music and her emphatic face and hand movements inspired the congregation to sing out. The novelty of discovering the power of music made my little chest swell as I joined in with fervor, “Put your shoulder to the wheel, push along; Do your duty with a heart full of song, We all have work; let no one shirk; Put your shoulder to the wheel!” I was in raptures by the end of that song.

This was the beginning of my love of the hymns of the Church, which have comforted, inspired, and helped me through the years.

When I think of a difficult time in my life, I can usually associate a hymn that helped me through it.

• Lonely days: The Lord is my Shepherd
• Feeling lost after a big transition in my life: How Gentle God’s Commands
• Saying goodbye: Come, Let us Anew
• Times of mourning: Abide with Me; ’tis Eventide
• Times of repentance: Lead, Kindly Light

One of my favorite things is to hear my little Mark singing the hymns at church. I’ll put my arm around him and lean in. The purity and sweetness usually brings tears to my eyes. I’ve decided that heaven has got to sound like that.

Yea, methought I saw…God sitting upon his throne, surrounded with numberless concourses of angels, in the attitude of singing and praising their God; yea, and my soul did long to be there. (Alma 36:22)

If you have a few minutes, here’s one of my favorites: Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing