It was a musical miracle—like a match made in heaven!

Many of our hymns come from other Christian faiths and were inspired by the Bible. We have only a handful based specifically on the Book of Mormon. “Press Forward, Saints” (Hymns, 81) is one of them!

The lyrics were inspired by 2 Nephi 31:20: “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men.”

Here’s the amazing backstory behind this powerful hymn:

• Once upon a time, about 40 years ago, a talented guy named Marvin Gardner wrote lyrics for a new hymn based on one of his favorite scriptures. He submitted it to the Church music committee. He was a member of the committee, so he sent it in anonymously.
• The committee liked the hymn! But they needed a tune to match the words.
• Meanwhile, another committee member named Vanja Watkins had been eating dinner one night when a new melody popped into her mind. When she heard the committee needed new music, she submitted this melody (also anonymously) for consideration.
• The lyrics and melody fit together perfectly! The hymn was chosen for the 1985 hymnbook. Brother Gardner and Sister Watkins were overjoyed to learn they had collaborated without even realizing it.

Alleluia, indeed! The world is full of miracles if we have eyes to see.

Note: Watch the authors of this hymn talk about this story at The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square blog.