By way of introduction . . . .

Erin Clarke, a member of the Ladera Ranch Ward, was called as the Stake Music Chairperson. Geoff Crisp, a member of the Mission Viejo II Ward, was called as the Cultural Arts Director.

We are happy to serve, and look forward to working with you (especially soon, as we prepare for the Stake Christmas Concert in December). The Mission Viejo California Stake has a great tradition of bringing music and cultural arts events to the members of the stake, and their friends. These events have uplifted, and inspired not only those who attended them, but those who participated in them, as well.

In January 1847, the Camp of Israel was gathered together on the West Bank of the Missouri River, near Council Bluffs, Iowa. At that time, President Brigham Young received a revelation from the Lord concerning the organization of the Camp of Israel, as they prepared to journey to the West. The saints were commanded to "keep all the commandments and statutes of the Lord our God," and covenanted to "walk in all the ordinances of the Lord." Difficult times were ahead, and every member was commanded to prepare.

The Lord said: "And if ye do this with a pure heart, in all faithfulness, ye shall be blessed; you shall be blessed in your flocks, and in your herds, and in your fields, and in your houses, and in your families." They were admonished to cease their contentions one with another, and to let their words edify one another. In short, to be Christians.

We are grateful for those who established the great arts and music traditions of this stake. As traditions are carried forward, and new traditions are established, we hope all will participate together as we heed this wise counsel given to the saints at Winter Quarters: "If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing, and with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving." Doctrine and Covenants 136:28.