As we begin the New Year 2024, we also begin again a study of the Book of Mormon. Personally, I have found my best study method has been to write a new song. When our family lived in Maryland, my Church calling was to provide music for Stake Conferences. As I prayed for guidance, I often got inspiration to compose music. One time, a quote from Joseph Smith came to mind.
He said, “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book” (History of the Church, 4:461).
A melody suddenly came fully formed into my mind for a refrain. This quote from Joseph Smith became the song's "hook" and it almost fit this melody. I decided to substitute the word "faith" for the word "religion," and then the words and melody matched. It didn't change the meaning at all.
Once the inspiration started flowing, I found it difficult to keep up. I had to write so quickly, it was almost like taking dictation. Once the framework of the melody and harmonies were established, I decided to create a flowing, slightly syncopated setting. (I think I had been singing a John Rutter piece in my community choir at the time because this accompaniment is rather Rutter-esque.) The homophonic movement of the voices is punctuated by the lilting accompaniment. I think it works very well together. Thus, "Keystone of Our Faith" was completed.
The Book of Mormon is sacred scripture, another testimony of Jesus Christ. It was translated by Joseph Smith through the gift and power of God. It contains the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It restores the knowledge of sacred covenants - God's promises to us, His children, and our promises to Him to keep His commandments and do His works. Each page contains references to Christ -- His divine mission, authority, power and matchless love. If we read, study and abide by the precepts taught in the Book of Mormon, we can indeed grow closer to God.
I know that the Book of Mormon is true. Every time I read from its pages, I feel a spiritual confirmation that Jesus is the Christ, that Joseph Smith was a true prophet, and that the ancient prophets who wrote in the Book of Mormon saw our day. They wrote to us about the most important things that we need to know in order to remain close to God and avoid the fiery darts of the Adversary. May we always keep our covenants and have a desire grow closer to God.
I recorded this duet version as a reference for people who want to hear it with singing. However, the choral is actually SATB with piano accompaniment.
He said, “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book” (History of the Church, 4:461).
A melody suddenly came fully formed into my mind for a refrain. This quote from Joseph Smith became the song's "hook" and it almost fit this melody. I decided to substitute the word "faith" for the word "religion," and then the words and melody matched. It didn't change the meaning at all.
Once the inspiration started flowing, I found it difficult to keep up. I had to write so quickly, it was almost like taking dictation. Once the framework of the melody and harmonies were established, I decided to create a flowing, slightly syncopated setting. (I think I had been singing a John Rutter piece in my community choir at the time because this accompaniment is rather Rutter-esque.) The homophonic movement of the voices is punctuated by the lilting accompaniment. I think it works very well together. Thus, "Keystone of Our Faith" was completed.
The Book of Mormon is sacred scripture, another testimony of Jesus Christ. It was translated by Joseph Smith through the gift and power of God. It contains the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It restores the knowledge of sacred covenants - God's promises to us, His children, and our promises to Him to keep His commandments and do His works. Each page contains references to Christ -- His divine mission, authority, power and matchless love. If we read, study and abide by the precepts taught in the Book of Mormon, we can indeed grow closer to God.
I know that the Book of Mormon is true. Every time I read from its pages, I feel a spiritual confirmation that Jesus is the Christ, that Joseph Smith was a true prophet, and that the ancient prophets who wrote in the Book of Mormon saw our day. They wrote to us about the most important things that we need to know in order to remain close to God and avoid the fiery darts of the Adversary. May we always keep our covenants and have a desire grow closer to God.
I recorded this duet version as a reference for people who want to hear it with singing. However, the choral is actually SATB with piano accompaniment.
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