Meridian Magazine : : Church Update: Come Up to the Mountain of the Lord Part 2

Come Up to the Mountain of the Lord Part 2
Draper Temple and Oquirrh Mountain Temple Youth Celebration
Photo Essay
Text and Photography by Kevin Raff

Note: All images can be clicked to enlarge.

Click here to go back to Part 1.

Even in Utah, youth enjoyed the popular trends of the day, depicted here through dance and music. Through video interview segments, parents and grandparents shared memories about the “good old days” of the 1920's, the swing-dance craze of the 1940's, and the pop culture of the 1950's.

Our ancestor's past is a part of our legacy. Learning about their lives is an important part of turning the hearts of the children to their fathers.

A favorite pastime of the locals was also common throughout the country – baseball. Several towns had their own teams, and the residents cheered them on enthusiastically. At one time there was even a General Authority baseball team!

A moving military tribute, complete with a flag-bearing honor guard, recognized the men and women who have served, and continue to serve their country, in preserving freedom. Each branch of the military was honored with their own anthem, while veterans were asked to stand as their respective military branch was recognized. President Monson, a veteran of the US Navy, stood tall and proud as the anthem of the Navy was sung. A picture of Elder L. Tom Perry was also shown on the big screens as a veteran of the US Marine Corps. Only in a free land like America, could Isaiah's prophecy regarding the mountain of the Lord's house be fulfilled. It was notable to see church leaders stand and be recognized, not for their church service, but for service to their country – in preserving those freedoms this land has been blessed with.

Every new temple has required a sacrifice on the part of the Lord's people. As temples continue to spread throughout Utah and the rest of the world, we would do well to ask ourselves, “What gift would I give?” As video segments of youth responding to this question were shown, great cheers arose from respective sections within the conference center. Many youth from the temple district expressed great joy at having a temple so close to their homes, sitting as a “light set on a hill” – a daily reminder of their sacred desire to “Come Up to the Mountain of the Lord.” This modern dance segment depicted youth of today, through color, movement and stunning choreography.

The gathering of many nations to the Tops of the Mountains includes people from lands and cultures around the world. Many people, including those from the Polynesian Islands, have gathered as sons and daughters of God in the common culture of the gospel.

Cultural aspects of the Latin American people, with their colorful costumes and energetic dancing was also depicted. In between dance and music numbers, performers would stream quickly down the aisle from the back of the hall to the front. The energy and enthusiasm among the performers was electric.

The Asian culture was represented through smooth, graceful movements of the young women, while the young men contrasted this with powerful, rhythmic drumming. On stage, a traditional Chinese dragon danced to the beat. Seemingly countless young men stood surrounding much of the audience, beating their drums loudly in unison, creating a compelling experience for all.

A video excerpt from a talk given by President Monson encouraged the youth of the church to stand firm, and not be swayed by any negative influences. He challenged them to be an example of righteousness, even among friends who may not choose to do the same. The strength of the youth today begins in the family, where gospel principles and a love for the temple are instilled.

The performance, entitled “Come up to the Mountain of the Lord” was reflected in the message of the evening. As these youth learn and live according to gospel principles, they are preparing to enter the temple, and receive blessings of an eternal nature, for themselves and their families.

“And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains…” The truth of God continues to go forth, boldly, nobly and independent, just as the Prophet Joseph declared. Likewise, temple building has also continued, with 129 operating temples now dotting the earth (and ever-growing). More and more church members, of all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people are able to “Come up to the mountain of the Lord,” to learn of his ways, and walk in his paths.

President Monson, characteristically the warm, personal and friendly prophet, couldn't seem to help himself, as he wandered among the youth performers near him. He greeted each one warmly, offered a handshake or a friendly wave, and his familiar smile. As he climbed the stairs onto the stage before exiting the building, he seemed drawn to a young woman in a wheelchair. As he approached her, he smiled broadly, and reached out to grasp her hand. The moment was brief, but the impact was lasting. He spent 10-15 minutes after the performance greeting the youth, often laughing, smiling, and waving in his loving, gentle way.

After leaving the Conference Center, still filled with a sense of excitement and celebration, it was profound to walk outside and see the brilliant spires of the Salt Lake Temple, prominent in the skyline across the street. Like the spires atop all temples, they stand as a symbol pointing heavenward, a reminder to all – Come up to the Mountain of the Lord.