Cultural Celebration

Yesterday, Julia, Ethan, Christian, and I went to the cultural celebration that they put on for the Idaho Falls temple re-dedication. Fortunately, it was held right here in the Holt Arena at ISU. Given the size of the temple district, each ward was only given 30 tickets. But I think a lot of people in our ward were out of town because our bishop was going to give me enough for all eight of us, but Rebecca and I thought just the older children would be better.

We got there kind of early (about an hour before it started), but it was already pretty crowded. We did find some good seats though. While waiting the children drew and made fans (it was super hot in there) and I tried to read up on fruit tree pruning (we are going to be planting some on Monday).



It started off with some opening comments by President Eyring. He was so kind and had such a big smile on his face to let everyone know how happy he was to be there. Elder Rasband came as well.

I know it is impossible to see, but President Eyring is at the pulpit here.


After the opening song and prayer the had a program where they told all about the history of southeast Idaho, how it was settled, and the first church members here. They emphasized a lot how no one really thought this area was habitable. They even said that in Brigham Young's time while the Salt Lake valley was known as "This is the place", southeast Idaho was known as "This is not yet the place". As they covered the history of the church here and the Idaho Falls temple, they did a lot of songs and dances. One of the favorites was the potato dance, but they also had tribal dancers from the Native American tribes in this area and a Spanish dance given that about 10% of the population in this area is from Mexico.

This was still probably 45 minutes prior. There were so many youth that were involved. It was fun hearing the leaders over the loud speaker giving them instructions. There seemed to be a few unruly ones, but for the most part it was amazing how they all did there parts together.


Here is the Mexican dance - this was probably Julia's favorite. Some of the dances included all of the youth, some just a few up at the front, and some had both groups.






The Idaho Falls temple was the 10th temple built in this dispensation. They then talked about the other temples that have been built in Idaho since then, including the Boise, Twin Falls, Rexburg, and soon to be finished Meridian temple. The speaker also mentioned the announcement from last conference of the Pocatello temple and the stadium erupted with applause and cheers.

We all had a great time. It was hot and long, but I think it was inspiring for Julia, Ethan, and Christian to see all of the youth dancing and singing and celebrating the church here in Idaho.