Faith
Choir’s Milestone Performance Inspires Global Unity
In a world that often feels divided and uncertain, the power of music to unite and inspire is something to celebrate. This past Sunday, the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square reached an extraordinary milestone, performing the 5,000th episode of the esteemed “Music & the Spoken Word” program. This achievement is a testament not only to the choir’s dedication but also to the enduring spirit of faith and community that has been a cornerstone of American life for nearly a century.
The program, which first aired on July 15, 1929, has become a beacon of hope and perseverance, weathering the storms of history from the Great Depression to the COVID-19 pandemic. As Heidi Swinton, a choir volunteer, eloquently put it, the choir serves as “a voice that says, ‘We can do this. We can get through this.’” This message resonates deeply with those who value the principles of faith, family, and freedom.
The choir’s ability to uplift and comfort is perhaps why President Ronald Reagan once dubbed it “America’s Choir.” Its longevity and steadfast presence have made it a symbol of resilience and unity, encouraging listeners to “lock arms and we’ll get through this.” In times of trial, the choir has provided a soundtrack of hope, reminding us of the strength found in community and shared values.
Warna Huff, a 101-year-old listener, recalls the impact of the first broadcast she heard as a child. “It was something you don’t forget,” she shared. “It just makes you feel something that you need. The music’s beautiful.” Her words echo the sentiments of many who find solace and inspiration in the program’s harmonious blend of music and message.
Russell M. Nelson, president of the LDS Church, also reflected on the program’s significance in his life, stating, “I cannot remember life without ‘Music & the Spoken Word.’” His recollection underscores the program’s role in shaping the moral and cultural fabric of our nation, offering a weekly reminder of the values that bind us together.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints described the 5,000th performance as an “unprecedented achievement [that] underscores the weekly program’s enduring legacy and its profound global impact.” Indeed, the reach of “Music & the Spoken Word” extends far beyond its origins, touching the hearts of over 6 million listeners each week.
“Music is the universal language of the Spirit,” Nelson noted. “Music communicates to the heart and soul of individuals in a way that written words cannot duplicate.” This truth is evident in the choir’s ability to transcend barriers and connect with audiences worldwide, reinforcing the timeless values of faith, hope, and love.
As we reflect on this remarkable milestone, let us remember the importance of nurturing our spiritual and cultural heritage. In a rapidly changing world, the enduring legacy of “Music & the Spoken Word” serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in faith and the unifying power of music. May we continue to cherish and uphold the values that have guided us through generations, ensuring a future where faith and freedom flourish.
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Faith Facts
- St Margaret of Scotland restored Christian life in her adopted homeland through faith-driven reforms.
- She was known for her charity, founding churches, schools, and caring for the poor according to biblical teachings.
- Her legacy as the Pearl of Scotland endures as an example of godly leadership and Christian service.
St Margaret of Scotland is remembered each year on November 16 for her lasting impact on Scottish Christian heritage.
Born in Hungary, she was of royal English Saxon descent.
She eventually became Queen of Scotland.
Her early years were marked by exile; political upheaval led her family to Hungary before returning to England. After a period of danger following the Norman conquest, Margaret sought refuge in Scotland, where King Malcolm III welcomed her family.
Margaret married King Malcolm III and became a devoted queen, guided by her strong Christian faith. Through her charitable works and church reforms, she transformed spiritual life and championed biblical values across Scotland.
Margaret founded churches, monasteries, and charitable institutions, seeking to align Scotland’s religious practices with Christian orthodox teaching. She personally supported the poor, redeemed captives, and made pilgrimages more accessible, reflecting Christ’s compassion.
Her death in 1093, shortly after King Malcolm, was deeply mourned. Margaret’s legacy continued through her children and the spiritual revival she inspired.
Let us remember St Margaret as a shining example of Christian queenship.
She was servant-hearted, courageous, and committed to advancing God’s kingdom through faith, family, and service.
Faith Facts
- Biblical truth calls for honesty in identifying obstacles to peace.
- Numerous historic peace offers to Palestinians have been rejected by their leaders.
- Official documents still call for struggle instead of peaceful coexistence.
Christian leaders recently called for a ceasefire in Gaza, suggesting that lasting peace depends on Israel’s actions and a change in attitude. They stated, “A credible peace must start with a ceasefire, but it will not last without a fundamental shift in the attitudes and behaviours that, for too long, have maintained Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory and thwarted Palestinian self-determination and statehood.”
However, history shows that the path to peace has been repeatedly hindered by Palestinian leadership rejecting viable two-state solutions offered in 1937, 1947, and several times since 1993. Israel fully withdrew from Gaza in 2005, granting the opportunity for Palestinian self-governance, yet conflict continued.
Much of the resistance to long-term peace is rooted in foundational Palestinian documents. The 1968 Palestinian National Charter states, “Armed struggle is the only way to liberate Palestine,” and sets out a call for continued conflict as a central strategy.
The charter highlights, “Absolute responsibility for this falls upon the Arab nation – peoples and governments – with the Arab people of Palestine in the vanguard.”
The Hamas Covenant echoes this sentiment, declaring the land as an Islamic trust and rejecting peace agreements. It reads, “The Islamic Resistance Movement believes that the land of Palestine is an Islamic Waqf consecrated for future Moslem generations until Judgement Day. It, or any part of it, should not be squandered: it, or any part of it, should not be given up.”
Christians are called to promote honest dialogue and faithful prayer for all those suffering in conflict. True pathways to peace require transformation of hearts in accordance with Biblical mercy and justice.
Faith Facts
- The Central Church of Christ, founded with the vision and generosity of A.M. Burton, marked its 100th anniversary with a celebration hosted at Lipscomb University.
- This congregation pioneered urban ministry, providing holistic care—medical, dental, and daily necessities—for Nashville’s neediest for decades.
- After years of legal battles over its property, the Burton family regained ownership of the historic building, highlighting faith-driven perseverance and unity.
Faith, generosity, and leadership were celebrated as former Central Church members, community guests, and Amy Grant—the great-granddaughter of A.M. Burton—gathered at Lipscomb University’s Spark campus for the congregation’s centennial.
The original church, born in 1925 through A.M. Burton’s dedication, became a living testament of Christian outreach, regularly serving Nashville’s poor and upholding biblical compassion.
“What we celebrate is the impact of a church. They were the hands and the feet and the mouthpiece of Jesus to the downtown community, to the rich and the powerful and to the poor and the down and out.”
– Scott Sager, special advisor for mission and ministry at Lipscomb University
The church experienced years of innovative service and spiritual dedication, both through its dynamic ministries and unwavering commitment to God’s Word, even as urban challenges and changing member demographics shaped its path.
“For a century, this congregation has been a living example of God’s handiwork. Men and women have been doing good works together across the city for years. We need followers of Christ who, like A.M. Burton and this congregation, are willing to be a light … and to serve with both humility and grace.”
– Candice McQueen, Lipscomb University President
The recent legal resolution allowed the Burton family and former members to reclaim their building, reminding the community of the power of faith-led action and the importance of preserving godly legacies.
“I think … his vision and all of the congregation of Central Church of Christ … all together, all of their small portion of events changed, bent history. In the total of all of our acts will be written the history of our generation. … We have to tell the story of people that have come before us.”
– Amy Grant
The Central congregation’s commitment gave practical expression to Christ’s call to serve others, reflecting the heart of Matthew 25:35—feeding the hungry, clothing the poor, and welcoming those in need.
This historic occasion encourages believers to honor the legacy of faithful servants and continue their work for God’s glory, serving Nashville and beyond with hope and compassion rooted in biblical principles.
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