Top 5 LDS Church Hymns
By Jetty Huish
Music holds an important role in religious worship. For members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, the singing of hymns expresses their love for the church and its doctrine through the singing of hymns. These hymns are not just songs: they are symbolic of members declaring their commitment and devotion to following the teachings of Jesus Christ. Here are my top five LDS Church hymns that have been embraced and sung by members for generations.
#5: “Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel”
“Put your shoulder to the wheel; push along, Do your duty with a heart full of song. We all have work; let no one shirk. Put your shoulder to the wheel.”
“Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel” is a hymn that is a testament to the early members of the LDS Church who went through many trials and adversities at the beginning of the LDS Church’s restoration and exodus west. The song carries within it the spirit of the pioneers who toiled and sacrificed to establish early LDS settlements. The lively melody and uplifting message of this hymn make it a cherished favorite during church services and gatherings. It encourages members to come together and work tirelessly to build God’s kingdom on earth, much like the pioneers of old.
#4: “Called to Serve”
“Called to serve Him, heavenly King of glory, Chosen e’er to witness for His name.”
“Called to Serve” is the anthem for missionary service around the world. Missionaries all over the world hold it close to their hearts as they venture out to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to His sheep. This hymn, is a reminder to members of the commitment the Church has to their mission of spreading the message of the gospel to others. While this hymn is the anthem of missionary service, it also resonates with members around the world as they minister and spread the word of the gospel on their own. Not to mention, the melody of the song itself is also super catchy.
#3: “There is a Green Hill Far Away”
“There is a green hill far away, Without a city wall, Where the dear Lord was crucified, Who died to save us all.”
“There is a Green Hill Far Away” is a sacred hymn that is often sung before members take part in the ordinance of the sacrament. It helps individuals contemplate the sacredness and the suffering the Savior went through while performing the Atonement. This hymn is a reminder of the ultimate love and sacrifice Christ made for everyone. The gentle melody invites the spirit into any room it is sung, and, combined with deep and meaningful lyrics, provides a powerful and strong message to the song to those who listen and sing.
#2: “I Believe in Christ”
“I believe in Christ; he is my King! With all my heart to him I’ll sing; I’ll raise my voice in praise and joy, In grand amens, my tongue employ.”
“I Believe in Christ” is a powerful declaration of faith and a testimony to the divinity of Jesus Christ. The lyrics beautifully outline the life, mission, and attributes of the Savior, reinforcing His central role in LDS doctrine. This hymn encourages members to nurture a personal and profound relationship with the Savior, highlighting the importance of faith in Jesus Christ.
#1: “I Stand All Amazed”
“I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me, Confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me. I tremble to know that for me he was crucified, That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.”
“I Stand All Amazed” is a hymn that conveys profound gratitude and wonder for the Savior’s grace, love, and the miracle of His atonement. It celebrates the profound joy and transformation that come from accepting and embracing the Savior’s redeeming power. This hymn resonates deeply with those who have experienced the profound blessings of Christ’s mercy and grace, reminding them of the incomparable love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
The LDS Church’s hymnbook is a treasury of faith, hope, and devotion. These top 5 LDS Church hymns — “Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel,” “Called to Serve,” “There is a Green Hill Far Away,” “I Believe in Christ,” and “I Stand All Amazed” — encapsulate the essence of LDS beliefs, values, and spiritual experiences. As members worldwide sing these hymns, they find not only inspiration but also a profound connection to their faith. These hymns serve as a testament to the enduring power of music to convey the deepest beliefs of the heart and spirit, as well as to unite individuals in their shared journey of dedication, service, and faith in the divinity of Jesus Christ. Hymns continue to be a source of comfort and inspiration to the faithful, carrying forward the timeless message of love, faith, and devotion that is integral to the LDS Church.
