On December 15, 2024, during the weekly Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square broadcast, "The Spoken Word" will be shared by Derrick Porter. This event holds a special significance as it traces back to Christmas Eve in 1818 in the small Austrian village of Oberndorf. At that time, the carol "Silent Night" was performed for the first time in St. Nicholas Church. Two years earlier, a young priest named Joseph Mohr had written the words, deeply influenced by the effects of the Napoleonic Wars on his congregants. These were indeed dark and heavy times, but with the end of the wars, Joseph poured his heart into creating the now famous lyrics: "Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright." (Refer to "Silent Night," "Hymns," no. 204; for a detailed account of the carol's history, visit www.stillenacht.at/en/.)

Discovering the Holiness in Silence

Joseph's words were primarily about the most holy night - the birth of Jesus Christ. However, they also inspire us to seek out and create our own quiet and still moments. These are moments when we intentionally set aside the world's pressures, take time to reflect, give thanks, and become peacemakers. They are moments of silence that transform into something holy.Imagine the scene in that small Austrian village years ago. The night was calm, free from the hustle and bustle of a large city. A bright moon illuminated the snow-covered earth, and a single candle burned in a room warmed by the fire. In such a setting, what emotions might we experience? What new thoughts and ideas might emerge? What invitations from heaven might we receive?Holy moments often arise from the silent moments that precede them.As we anticipate Christmas, let us actively search for our own silent and holy moments, those moments of calm and brightness. Only then can we truly savor the true essence of this magnificent season - to remember Him, the "Son of God, love's pure light." (See "Silent Night," "Hymns," no. 204.)The sun sets on Oberndorf, Austria, where "Silent Night" was first played at Christmas Mass. | Martin Erdniss – stock.adobe.com

How to Tune In

The "Music & the Spoken Word" broadcast is accessible on various platforms. You can find it on KSL-TV, KSL News Radio 1160AM/102.7FM, KSL.com, BYUtv, BYUradio, Dish and DirecTV, SiriusXM (Ch. 143), tabernaclechoir.org, youtube.com/TheTabernacleChoir, and Amazon Alexa (make sure to enable the skill). The program is aired live on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. Mountain Time on these channels. For broadcast information by state and city, visit musicandthespokenword.com/viewers-listeners/airing-schedules.

The Impact of "Silent Night"

This carol has had a profound impact not only on the religious community but also on the world. Its gentle melody and profound lyrics have touched the hearts of people across generations. It has become a symbol of peace and tranquility during the Christmas season. The story behind its creation, with Joseph Mohr's heartfelt words and the historical context of the Napoleonic Wars, adds an extra layer of significance. It shows how art can emerge from the depths of human experience and bring comfort and inspiration to others.

Finding Silence in a Busy World

In our modern, fast-paced lives, it can be challenging to find moments of silence. However, "Silent Night" reminds us of the importance of creating these spaces. It encourages us to disconnect from the noise and distractions around us and connect with our inner selves. Whether it's taking a few minutes in the morning to sit in silence or finding a quiet corner in the evening, these moments of stillness can have a profound impact on our well-being. They allow us to recharge, gain perspective, and connect with the divine.We can all learn from the example of that small Austrian village and strive to create our own silent and holy moments. Let "Silent Night" be a reminder to us all that in the midst of chaos, there is always a place for peace and tranquility.