Sacrament Meeting Worship

Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, General Conference, Saturday Morning Session, October 4, 2008

Elder Oaks' remarks were all about Sacrament meeting worship. They were so instructional I really wished that he had spoken on Sunday when more people are likely to be listening. I know that even I get a little too lax about my Sacrament meeting worship and I think if everyone took his instructions to heart our Sunday meetings would take place in an entirely different and much improved atmosphere.

He reminded us that Sacrament meeting is the most important of any of our meetings. The program should always be focused on and lead us to think of the Savior and his Atonement. And since the primary purpose of Sacrament meeting is to partake of the Sacrament, how can we ensure that we are adequately prepared to do so?

He suggests several things to help us make the Sacrament more meaningful. The first was to come with a broken heart and contrite spirit. Second, show up early and prayerfully meditate. Use the time before the meeting to prepare ourselves spiritually. I'll admit, getting there on time is a pretty big deal for our family, let alone early. It seems no matter how hard we try, or how early we begin preparing, we just never make it on time. If I ever did though, I wonder if my kids would even let me prepare spiritually and meditate. I doubt it, but I'm sure it would be worth trying. If for nothing else, to set the example for them. And certainly not having to rush to get there would be a big improvement on our readiness to worship as a family and as individuals. He reminded us once again that the time before the meeting starts is not a time for conversations and passing of notes. This is really difficult, I think, in our socially oriented church. But we hear it over and over again. I'm certain we'd all be kind of shocked into reverence if we walked into a quiet chapel every Sunday. Wouldn't that be incredible?

He then addressed the issue of how we should dress. I loved this part because so many times people don't think it matters. He said "Our manner of dress indicates the degree to which we understand and will participate in the ordinance." Whoa. Didn't ever think of it that way. It always bothers me when the deacons or priests show up with long hair, tennis shoes, jeans, and jewelry. It's a sacred ordinance and should be treated as such, maybe even especially by those who administer the Sacrament (my opinion, not Elder Oaks').

He also brought up issues which, frankly, I'm astonished even need to be said. He said that Sacrament meeting is not a time for whispered conversations, cell phones, magazines or books. We are to remember Christ in Sacrament meeting. I wonder how he feels about me bringing books for my kids? I suppose it would be better if I could find some cute little LDS type books to bring. I don't know. Anybody have an opinion on that? I have seen families in my ward who allow their kids to read non-church related fiction during church. I've also seen more than one adult in my ward playing games on their cell phones. Sheesh!

The final thing he suggested is another one that I wish didn't even need to be mentioned. He said every person in attendance should join in singing the hymns. I wish that everyone felt the same way I do about the hymns. They are such an important part of worship and a valuable tool to teach, unify, and invite the spirit. He also made recommendations about our musical numbers saying that all sacrament music is "for worship and not for performance." AMEN to that. I get so tired of hearing "Mormon Pop" during Sacrament meeting. C'mon people! There's so much better music out there for Sacrament worship!

Elder Oaks gave me a good reminder for how I ought to worship in Sacrament meeting. It's a challenge with small children but I know that it's important to keep trying and to set a good example for them as well.