Latter-day Hymn Stories

While in college, the spirit whispered to Sherrie Boren that she would one day write songs for the Church. Many years later, her children's song, "Holy Places," was selected for our new hymnal, "Hymns -- for Home and Church." Join our conversation with her to hear how a childhood concern planted the seed for this song, how a rigorous music review altered the message and character of the song, and how we can make our homes and hearts as holy as the temple and spread that holiness throughout th...

Join our conversation with Melanie Hoffman, lyricist and songwriter of "Gethsemane," to hear the faith-filled events and personal backstory that led to the creation of a song loved by children (and grown-ups!) worldwide. Hear how her life took a turn when she married her future arranging partner, Roger Hoffman, and how a walk into the creative wilderness (led only by the spirit), an unexpected opportunity to become a songwriter, a personal journey through the Holy Land and the Garden itself, ...

Join our conversation with Lane Johnson, songwriter of "When the Savior Comes Again," to hear the inspiring story behind the song selected from 17,000 submissions to be included in the new hymnal by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Years of music study, a prophetic dream, and a lifelong prayer to use his musical talents to build the kingdom, yielded in a beautiful children's song about the Second Coming. Hear also how a poignant tragedy forever altered the composition of Lane'...