Primary Program

Ever since I got called to be the Primary Chorister in June, I have been focusing on, planning for, and practicing for the Primary Program. It took place yesterday during Sacrament Meeting, and I feel such a relief now that it is over!

I LOVE getting to be in Primary every week to teach music time, but I would be lying if I said that I wasn't nervous about how the program would turn out. We had 13 songs this year, so I was feeling stretched pretty thin. In addition to the songs in the official program, I also taught the Books of the Old and New Testament and the Books in the Book of Mormon because they fit so well with the yearly theme "I Know the Scriptures are True". They are hard songs (the Jr. primary had an especially hard time with names like Habakkuk and Zephaniah, etc.), but I know that they will be invaluable as the children go to Seminary and need to know more of the scriptures. On Saturday we had our last practice before the program, and it was pretty rough. The Primary Presidency reassured me that every year it was like this on Saturday, but on Sunday it always turned out wonderfully.

Luckily, they were right!

The children all did a great job on their parts. I was really impressed with how many had their parts memorized. Christian only had one line, but he said it very clearly and from memory. The songs all went smoothly too. I always feel like we can sing louder, but overall I was just thrilled with the final presentation. This year we did one song in sign language ("I Love to See the Temple") and one song was done in a small group ("Where Love Is"). I really feel like they added a nice change to the other songs, and hopefully I can come up with some new ideas for next year too. Anyone out there have any great suggestions?

Jonathon's family came to watch the program to support Christian and me. We were so happy that they took part of their busy day to support us. It really meant a lot to our family. We had such a lovely dinner and evening with them.

By far, the best thing about the whole day was that the Spirit was so strong. The children really brought it to the meeting as they spoke simply, but fervently about the things that they learned and believed. Our final song was "Scripture Power".  All of the children raised their scriptures high in the air during the chorus. It was a powerful end to a beautiful meeting.  I am thankful to be part of such a wonderful organization and to have the opportunity to learn from the children weekly.

P.S. It has been so fun coming up with creative teaching methods to use with the children. It really makes me feel like the time and energy I spent on my teaching degree was not in vain. I am now able to use all of the knowledge and skill that I worked hard for to, hopefully, benefit the children of our ward. It is very fulfilling for me. Jonathon has been so supportive too. He built me this awesome wheel to use during singing time.

I can change the spaces to fit whatever I am doing for the day. The possibilities are endless and the kids love it! I got the idea and the directions here. I have such a nice husband!