Whether up at the pulpit or seated with the congregation, many Latter-day Saints love to sing in church. But for those of us without musical talent, singing aloud with other people doesn’t seem like a good idea—for us or for them.
But in the latest video of LDS Living’s latest5-Minute Fireside series, Conlon and Oyoyo Bonner remind us that singing in church has a holier purpose than hitting the right notes.
“When we combine inspired words with uplifting music, it opens a glimpse of heaven, which is one of the greatest gifts God has given us,” Oyoyo Bonner says.
Conlon and Oyoyo share Doctrine and Covenants 25:12, which teaches that our songs in church are also a form of prayer: “For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart; yea, the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me, and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads.”
For those that still feel a bit hesitant to share their voice, Oyoyo has some advice.
“If you’re feeling a little bit shy about singing when that prelude music starts up, we invite you to think about the prayer you are singing, the words you are speaking, [and] how it makes you feel. Let it touch your heart. It’s not about the notes, it’s about opening that channel between you and the divine,” she says.
Conlon adds, “Just sing. Just pray; let the gift of song rise up like a prayer to our Father in Heaven.”
Listen to the full song and fireside on YouTube.