Church in the Canyon

Marc and Frances live in the greatest ward! They live in Emigration Canyon (where the Mormon pioneers entered the Salt Lake Valley). For twenty-four years, their ward has been having “Church in the Canyon” the Sunday before Pioneer Day (July 24). Marc has been out of town this week, so Frances invited Rara, Ryan and I to attend Church in the Canyon and help her with the girls. Of course, we were anxious to agree!We learned that the flat place surrounded by a grove of trees where we met was called “Cold Creek Camp.” It was the place where many pioneers camped their last night before entering the Salt Lake Valley.

The main speaker was wonderful! He is an emeritus professor from BYU, and has written several books on Brigham Young and the pioneers. He reminded us of the history of the canyon, and related many pioneer stories. It was a little longer than the normal Sacrament Meeting talk, but it was so informative, we really enjoyed it!

Of course, we also sang “Come, Come Ye Saints,” “They the Builders of the Nation,” and other great pioneer songs.The best part of Church in the Canyon is that they serve refreshments! I was holding Claire as we walked over to the refreshment table. I picked up a chocolate doughnut with chocolate frosting (of course!) and a cup of milk. Before we even got to our seat, Claire had poked a finger in my doughnut. As I sat down, Claire grabbed an entire fistful of my doughnut and shoved it into her mouth! Then she grabbed another fistful with the other hand! Within moments, Claire had a mouthful and two fistfuls of doughnuts, and we were covered with chocolate! I thought Ryan was a young chocoholic, but he may have competition! (Frances snapped these pictures as the event unfolded.)Ryan also enjoyed the zip-line swing. He was about 10 kids back in the line as we were ready to go. I called to him, and he was disappointed that he wasn’t going to get his turn, but he was obedient and was going to leave the line. But then a girl ahead of him said, “Hey, guys! This kid needs to leave. Let’s all let him go ahead of us!” I couldn’t believe it! And they all did! He loved it!Church outside…with refreshments…and kids that voluntarily do kind things for others?!?! I may change wards!