The tradition began one miraculous day in Kirtland, Ohio.
Imagine you were one of a thousand early Saints who came to the Kirtland Temple dedication in 1836. They listened to a talk and a dedicatory prayer. At the end of the meeting, everyone started to sing a hymn called “The Spirit of God.”
Suddenly the words of the song came to life! Miracles started happening. Some Saints spoke in tongues while others were able to interpret. Many saw angels on the temple roof or heard heavenly singing. There were healings, visions, and dreams.
The Savior Himself even appeared in five different meetings held in that temple.
Today this hymn is part of every temple dedication. What a powerful musical tradition!
Note: Information taken from this Tabernacle Choir blog.