Manifestation of the Angelic Choir at the Manti Temple Dedication

Mary A. Freeze was among those present at the dedication of the Manti Temple on May 21, 1888, the first day of the public dedicatory services. During the organ voluntary, a musical selection by Mendelssohn played by Professor A. C. Smyth, many of the Saints in the body of the hall and some of the brethren in the west stand heard heavenly voices singing. The sound appeared to emanate from behind and above the congregation, prompting many to turn their heads, assuming another choir was performing in a different part of the building. Elder George Teasdale, who reported the event, confirmed that no other choir was present. He noted that the manifestation was among several spiritual occurrences during the three-day service; some Saints saw the spirits of deceased Church leaders, including Presidents Brigham Young, John Taylor, and J. M. Grant, while others observed a halo of heavenly light surrounding the heads of some speakers. These manifestations, witnessed by many whose spiritual eyes were opened, left the congregation in a state of joy, confirming to the attendees that God had accepted the Manti Temple.