Come, Thou Fount
July 19th, 2026 by G.
On the sweetness of Mormon life
The girl reads her talk artlessly then puts her phone up on the podium. It plays–cheap, tinny–Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing. She sings the first verse. She looks down the whole time. She is shy but also–you are close enough that you can see–she is fighting back tears. Your own tears start. You first heard this song on your mission when you needed streams of mercy. They came and never ceased.
Annie
July 21, 2026
I’m in favor of more music in church. I gave a talk this Sunday about coming closer to Christ through singing and studying the hymns, which I consider scripture. I read some of the words of a few especially tender (to me) hymns, then spent the balance of my talk analyzing and elaborating on a new favorite of mine, Welcome Home (1027). Beautiful hymn in every way, and a powerful segue into the parable of the Prodigal Son. I’m impressed with your young friend’s courage. I’ve been a member for 50+ years and have only ever sung as part of a talk once or twice. It’s odd, as I most often have strong spiritual impressions while singing or listening to music. Sweet, indeed.
E. C.
July 21, 2026
Last summer, I gave a talk on reverence. It started with me singing a capella,
“Rev’rence is more than just quietly sitting . . .”
And by the end of that Primary song, practically everyone in my YSA stake was attentive. The Spirit was sweet.
I was waffling, up until I stood at the pulpit and took that shaky breath, whether I was going to actually sing or not, since I hadn’t really prepared to.
You’re right, Annie; we do need more music in church. And possibly, in the temple as well.