Singing in the Tabernacle

Jean and I had a rare opportunity to sing for a world wide broadcast (move over American Idol) with 180 seminary teachers and spouses from Utah Valley. We formed a choir and sat in the actual seats of the MoTab and were accompanied by the MoTab choir organist, on the MoTab organ--pipes and all. Suddenly I'm craving Tab. Anyway, it was a great experience to be there and to sing. President Boyd K. Packer was the speaker. Also in attendance were Elders Nelson and Oaks. Pretty special indeed. One funny and human moment was when President Packer forgot President Eyring's name and had to turn to Elder Oaks to be prompted. They both laughed and President Packer said he is finding that 83 he is much older than he was at 82. I'm sure Elder Oaks can't wait to tell the Quorum, especially Elder Eyring. President Packer shared events from his life that shaped his teaching. He said that being church members is "good enough," stressing that members do their best and that is good enough. He said, "I'm nothing special--it's the office I hold." He warned of perilous times ahead and said anyone with the role of teacher "absolutely must" measure up to preserve our people. He said the words "absolutely" and "must" are rarely said by the General Authorities. They usually say "are to" instead of "must." For example, "Church members are to do the best they can." He "turned the keys" of the priesthood in our behalf, blessing us and our families. He stressed that the apostles hold all the keys. It was a once in a lifetime experience. To those aspiring to be in the Tabernacle Choir, beware, the seats are squished together and there is little foot room. But the view of the back of the General Authorities' heads: priceless.