What Was Witnessed in the Heavens?

Sheet Music

Using the tune 'Erie' as found in Relief Society Song Book, 1919, no. 55

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• LilyPond
• Copyright: public domain
• Source: Relief Society Song Book, 1919, no. 55
• Contributor: Veramet 23:41, 28 August 2010 (MDT)

Tunes

• Joyful Sound, by Evan Stephens (1854–1930)
• Erie, by Charles C. Converse (1832–1918)
  • Copyright: public domain

Lyrics

• Poet: John S. Davis (1813–1882)
• Copyright: public domain

Lyrics from Relief Society Song Book, 1919, no. 55

1. What was witnessed in the heavens?
Why, an angel eastward bound.
Had he something with him bringing?
Yes—the Gospel—joyful sound!
It was to be preached in power
On the earth, the angel said;
To all men, all tongues and nations,
That upon its face are spread.

2. Had we not before the Gospel?
Yes—had sev’ral taught by men.
Then what is this latter Gospel?
’Tis the first one come again.
This was preached by Paul and Peter,
And by Jesus Christ, the head;
This we latter Saints are preaching—
We their footsteps wish to tread.

3. Where so long has been the Gospel?
Did it on the earth remain?
No, ’twas taken into heaven,
Then restored to man again.
What became of the departed,
Who heard not the Gospel plan?
Jesus preached to souls in person,
What He taught on earth to man.