Published by Knowing Hymn
Angi and Steve Danielson discuss the hymns of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and share their feelings, insights, and reflections about how each one brings us all closer to Jesus Christ. Each episode features personal experiences, researched information, and quite possibly some singing!
Listen on Apple Podcasts31 min
How do we respond to God's grace? In this episode, Steve and Angi explore "God's Gracious Love" (Hymn 1013 in Hymns—For Home and Church ). Together, they discuss the hymn's inspiring origins, its rich scriptural foundation, and the beautiful relationship between God's grace, our faith, and our discipleship. The story behind God's Gracious Love The hymn's author and composer What the scriptures teach about God's grace Grace, faith, and the Atonement of Jesus Christ How gratitude changes the way we live Personal insights from Steve and Angi 📧 knowinghymn@gmail.com 🌐 KnowingHymn.weebly.com We'd love to hear from you! How have you experienced God's gracious love in your own life? Thank you for joining us as we continue discovering the stories, doctrine, and testimony found in the hymns. Join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn .
27 min
Knowing Hymn – Episode 51 Love Will Bless Our Home (Hymn 1061) How can a simple hymn teach us to build stronger homes? In this episode, Steve and Angi explore "Love Will Bless Our Home" (Hymn 1061 in Hymns—For Home and Church ). Together, they discuss the hymn's unique history, its message of Christlike love within the family, and why this beloved text has found a new home in the Church's updated hymnbook. Along the way, they examine scriptures about charity, talk about practical ways to invite the Savior into our homes, and reflect on how love, forgiveness, and service create lasting peace in family life. The story behind Love Will Bless Our Home The hymn's author and composer Why this hymn was included in the new hymnbook Scriptures on charity and Christlike love Building stronger homes through the Savior Personal experiences from Steve and Angi 🎙️ Steve's interview with Ryan Murphy on the Moveable Do podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3UsqhHZVlliWWHle5Xl6y6?si=d24e57372de747f7 📧 knowinghymn@gmail.com 🌐 KnowingHymn.weebly.com If this episode encouraged you, we'd love to hear from you! What does "love will bless our home" mean to you? Join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn .
27 min
Knowing Hymn – Episode 50"Welcome Home" What does it mean to truly feel welcome home? In this episode of Knowing Hymn , Steve and Angi explore the touching new hymn "Welcome Home" from Hymns—For Home and Church . Together, they discuss how the hymn beautifully portrays three sacred invitations: gathering with fellow Saints at church, entering the peace of the temple, and ultimately returning to the loving presence of our Heavenly Father. Throughout the episode, Steve and Angi reflect on the Savior's open invitation to all of God's children, the importance of creating welcoming congregations, and the peace that comes through temple worship. They also share personal experiences—including Angi's service as a temple worker—and testify that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, every one of us can one day hear the words, "Welcome home." The story and message behind the hymn "Welcome Home" Three meanings of "home" found throughout the hymn Creating welcoming church congregations Finding peace and healing through temple worship Angi's experiences serving as a temple worker The Savior's invitation to return to Him The symbolism of Christ's outstretched arms How the Atonement makes it possible for us to return to our Heavenly Father Why every disciple can help others feel welcome in the Church "Welcome Home" ( Hymns—For Home and Church ) Isaiah (the repeated invitation that "His hand is stretched out still") 2 Nephi 1:15 ("encircled about eternally in the arms of his love") Additional references to the Savior's invitation to come unto Him Clark G. Gilbert (April 2026 General Conference): "To those who are struggling to come home, know that it is your Savior who is calling you back." John H. Groberg on the temple being "the real world" because it represents eternal realities rather than temporary earthly concerns. Coming unto Jesus Christ Feeling welcome in the Church Temple worship Eternal families The Atonement God's mercy Returning to our Heavenly Father Christian fellowship Ministering with kindness and love "Welcome Home" presents a beautiful progression through three sacred places of belonging. The first verse celebrates the welcoming spirit of the Church as disciples gather to worship together. The second verse turns our attention to the temple, where covenants bring peace, healing, and a deeper connection with God. The final verse looks beyond mortality to the joyful day when the Savior, with arms outstretched, welcomes His faithful children back into His presence—a reminder that through Jesus Christ, our eternal home is always within reach. 📧 Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com 🌐 Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com We'd love to hear from you! When have you felt truly "welcome home"—whether in your ward, in the temple, or through the Savior's love? We'd love to hear your experiences. Thank you for joining us as we continue discovering the stories, doctrine, and testimony found in the hymns. We hope you'll join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn .
30 min
What does it mean to declare, "This is the Christ"? In this episode of Knowing Hymn , Steve and Angi explore the powerful testimony hymn "This Is the Christ" (Hymn 1017 in Hymns—For Home and Church ), with text by James E. Faust and Jan Underwood Pinborough and music by Michael F. Moody . Originally composed as a choral anthem, this beloved work has inspired worshippers for decades before finding its place in the Church's new hymnbook. Together, Steve and Angi discuss Michael Moody's life and lifelong dedication to sacred music, the scriptural foundation of the hymn, and the many titles of Jesus Christ found throughout its text. They also examine the hymn's testimony of the Savior's Atonement, Resurrection, and divine mission, while reflecting on what it means to accept His invitation to change and follow Him. A special highlight of this episode is Steve's musical analysis of the hymn, exploring how Moody's masterful composition reinforces the text and deepens its testimony of Jesus Christ. Michael F. Moody's life and contributions to Church music How "This Is the Christ" evolved from a choral anthem into a congregational hymn The scriptural events portrayed in the hymn The significance of Christ's many titles: Savior, Redeemer, Lord, and Healer Understanding the Atonement through the phrase "Many drops of blood were spilled for me" What it means to accept the Atonement of Jesus Christ Why Christ invites us to change rather than compels us A musical analysis of the hymn's melody, harmony, and structure Bearing our own testimony that Jesus is the Christ "This Is the Christ" (Hymn 1017) Words by James E. Faust and Jan Underwood Pinborough and music by Michael F. Moody 3 Nephi 11:8–17 (The Savior appears to the Nephites) 1 Kings 19:11-13 (Elijah's experience feeling the still, small voice) Doctrine and Covenants 76:22–24 (Joseph Smith's testimony that Christ lives) President Boyd K. Packer about feeling the influence of the Spirit. The divinity of Jesus Christ Personal testimony The Atonement The Resurrection Redemption through Jesus Christ Repentance and change Grace and discipleship Sacred music as testimony Worship through congregational singing Michael F. Moody has devoted his life to creating sacred music that strengthens faith in Jesus Christ. A longtime leader in Church music, he served as chairman of the General Church Music Committee and later helped oversee the development and worldwide translation of the Church's 1985 hymnbook. His many beloved compositions—including "He Sent His Son," "A Child's Prayer," and "This Is the Christ" —have blessed generations of Latter-day Saints and continue to inspire worship throughout the world. 📧 Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com 🌐 Website: knowinghymn.weebly.com We'd love to hear from you! What experiences have strengthened your testimony that Jesus Christ lives? How has this hymn helped you come to know Him more personally? Thank you for joining us as we continue to discover the stories, doctrine, and testimonies found in the hymns. We hope you'll join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Hymn.
26 min
Knowing Hymn – Episode 48“I Know That My Savior Loves Me” In this episode of Knowing Hymn , Steve and Angi explore the beloved Primary hymn "I Know That My Savior Loves Me" (Hymn 1014 in Hymns—For Home and Church ), with music by Tami J. Creamer and lyrics by Derena A. Bell. Inspired by the Savior's visit to the Nephite children in 3 Nephi 17 , this hymn beautifully connects that sacred event to our own lives today. Steve and Angi discuss the hymn's origins, the scriptural account that inspired it, and the comforting truth that although we cannot physically see the Savior, we can still feel His love through the Holy Ghost, our families, teachers, and everyday experiences. Throughout the episode, they share personal stories of feeling the Savior's love during difficult moments, reflect on the influence of faithful parents and teachers, and bear testimony that Jesus Christ lives and knows each of us personally. The story behind "I Know That My Savior Loves Me" Tami Creamer's inspiration from 3 Nephi 17 How the hymn became a Church music competition winner Its journey into the Primary songbook and Hymns—For Home and Church Why 3 Nephi 17 is one of the most tender chapters in scripture Feeling the Savior's love through family, leaders, and teachers Personal experiences of being strengthened by Jesus Christ The power of bearing testimony through music "I Know That My Savior Loves Me" (Hymn 1014) Music by Tami J. Creamer Lyrics by Derena A. Bell 3 Nephi 17:11–24 John 21:15–17 (referenced in discussion of Christ's love for His children) Jesus Christ's love for children The ministry of Christ among the Nephites Testimony through music Feeling the Savior's love Parents and teachers as spiritual guides Holy places in everyday life Faith, discipleship, and following Jesus Christ The influence of righteous examples Tami Creamer composed the music after being inspired by the Savior's visit to the children in 3 Nephi 17 . She later invited lyricist Derena Bell to help shape the text so that it would connect Christ's ministry among the Nephites with the experiences of children today. After winning first place in a Church music competition in 2001, the hymn was published in The Friend magazine in 2002, became a beloved Primary song, served as the 2015 Primary theme song, and is now included in Hymns—For Home and Church . Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Website: knowinghymn.weebly.com We'd love to hear from you! When have you felt wrapped in the Savior's love? We'd love to hear your experiences and what this hymn means to you. Thank you for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Him.
10 min
During our interview with Angie Killian, she mentioned this piece, My Own Sacred Grove. Steve shares a recording of this piece (with permission), and then a flute-piano duet arrangement of the same song. Sheet music for My Own Sacred Grove: https://www.angiekillian.com/my-own-sacred-grove Sheet music for Steve's flute/piano duet: https://sdcompose.weebly.com/store/p61/My-Own-Sacred-Grove.html#/
34 min
Knowing Hymn – Episode 47“Anytime, Anywhere” with Special Guest Angie Killian In this special episode of Knowing Hymn , Steve and Angi welcome songwriter and hymnwriter Angie Killian to discuss her beloved hymn “Anytime, Anywhere” (Hymn 1012 in Hymns—For Home and Church ). Angie shares the story behind the hymn's creation, explaining how it began as a simple song for children and eventually found its way into the Church's new hymnbook. Together, they explore the hymn's central message that prayer and divine guidance are available to all of God's children, no matter where they are or what circumstances they face. Throughout the conversation, Angie reflects on her journey as a songwriter, her desire to help children develop a relationship with Heavenly Father, and the inspiration she finds in the Savior's teachings. Steve and Angi also discuss scriptural teachings on prayer, the influence of the Holy Ghost, and the importance of finding sacred moments amid the noise and distractions of everyday life. Angie Killian's journey into songwriting The story behind “Anytime, Anywhere” How the hymn grew from a children's song into a congregational favorite Teaching children to pray and seek spiritual guidance The Savior's teachings on personal prayer Finding sacred spaces in a noisy world The role of the Holy Ghost in guiding our lives The power of simple, childlike faith Hearing hymns sung around the world A memorable story involving children, music, and an unexpected audience of cows “Anytime, Anywhere” (Hymn 1012) Words and music by Angie Killian Matthew 6:5–6 3 Nephi 18:15–21 Doctrine and Covenants 88:63 1 Thessalonians 5:17 James 1:5 Steve references the 1835 hymnbook compiled under the direction of Emma Smith. 1835 Collection of Sacred Hymns: https://www.josephsmithpapers.org/paper-summary/collection-of-sacred-hymns-1835/7 Prayer Personal revelation The Holy Ghost Teaching faith to children Finding peace amid life's distractions Worship in daily life Trust in Heavenly Father The simplicity of the gospel Jesus Christ as our example in prayer Angie Killian is a Christian songwriter, author, and speaker whose music has touched millions of listeners around the world. Her songs focus on faith in Jesus Christ and are sung in homes, churches, and congregations across the globe. “Anytime, Anywhere” was recently added to Hymns—For Home and Church as hymn number 1012. Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Website: knowinghymn.weebly.com We'd love to hear from you! What experiences have helped you learn that you can pray anytime and anywhere? Share your thoughts with us by email or through our website. Thank you for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Him.
31 min
Knowing Hymn – Episode 46“My Covenants” In this episode of Knowing Hymn , Steve and Angi explore “My Covenants” (Hymn 1023 in Hymns—For Home and Church ), with words and music by Hanna Josephine Saffer. Originally written for children, this simple yet profound hymn teaches one of the central principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ: the importance of making and keeping covenants with God. Steve and Angi discuss how covenants connect us to Jesus Christ, strengthen us through the power of the Holy Ghost, and provide guidance throughout our lives. Together, they explore the promises we make at baptism, the blessings of covenant living, and how temple covenants build upon the covenant path. Through scripture, personal experiences, and doctrinal discussion, they reflect on how keeping our covenants helps us draw closer to the Savior and become more like Him. The story behind “My Covenants” Hanna Josephine Saffer's inspiration for writing the hymn Why covenants are central to God's plan The covenant path and daily discipleship Baptismal covenants and their promises The role of the Holy Ghost in covenant keeping How covenants strengthen us during life's challenges Temple covenants and the blessings they bring Becoming heirs to the promises made to Abraham Teaching children the importance of covenants “My Covenants” (Hymn 1023) Words and music by Hanna Josephine Saffer Mosiah 18:8–10 Doctrine and Covenants 82:10 Galatians 3:27–29 Abraham 2:9–11 John 14:26–27 Doctrine and Covenants 84:20–21 Covenants and discipleship Following Jesus Christ The covenant path Baptism and confirmation The companionship of the Holy Ghost Temple worship The Abrahamic covenant Spiritual growth through obedience God's promises to His children Daily covenant living Hanna Josephine Saffer wrote "My Covenants" to help children understand the importance of covenant keeping in a simple, memorable way. The hymn teaches that following Jesus Christ, obeying His commandments, and relying on the Holy Ghost are all part of living faithfully on the covenant path. Though written with children in mind, its message speaks to disciples of all ages. Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Website: knowinghymn.weebly.com We'd love to hear from you! What blessings have come into your life through making and keeping covenants with God? Share your thoughts with us by email or through our website. Thank you for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to Knowing Him.
36 min
In this episode of Knowing Hymn , Steve and Angi explore one of the most beloved additions to Hymns—For Home and Church : “Faith in Every Footstep” by K. Newell Dayley. Often associated with the 1997 Pioneer Sesquicentennial celebration, this hymn is much more than a pioneer anthem. Steve and Angi discuss the hymn's origins, its connections to Doctrine and Covenants 4 , and the powerful message that discipleship requires faith, commitment, and trust in Jesus Christ—one step at a time. Through scripture, personal stories, and reflections on pioneer heritage, they explore what it means to embark in the service of God, travel the covenant path, and exercise faith even when the road ahead is unclear. This episode also includes a special surprise as Steve sings a verse of the hymn in Czech before they perform the hymn together. The story behind “Faith in Every Footstep” K. Newell Dayley's inspiration for writing the hymn Connections between the hymn and Doctrine and Covenants 4 What it means to "embark in the service of God" The Restoration as the "marvelous work and a wonder" Pioneer faith and modern discipleship Personal experiences of following promptings and moving forward in faith Teaching faith to the next generation A special Czech-language performance segment Singing the hymn together “Faith in Every Footstep” Words and music by K. Newell Dayley Doctrine and Covenants 4 Isaiah 29:14 1 Nephi 3:7 Proverbs 3:5–6 Account of Hannah in 1 Samuel King Benjamin's people and the rising generation in Mosiah Faith in Jesus Christ The covenant path The Restoration of the gospel Pioneer heritage Missionary work and discipleship Consecration and service Trusting God through uncertainty The importance of daily spiritual habits Passing faith to future generations Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Website: knowinghymn.weebly.com If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, your favorite pioneer stories, or an experience when you had to move forward with faith before knowing what the future would hold. Thanks for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to knowing Him. In This EpisodeHymn DiscussedScriptures ReferencedThemes DiscussedMemorable ThoughtConnect With Us
36 min
After a 2½-year break, Steve and Angi are back for a brand-new season of Knowing Hymn ! In this episode, they explore one of the newest hymns from Hymns—For Home and Church : “The Power of the Holy Ghost” by Delys Waite Snyder. Together, they discuss the doctrine and inspiration behind the hymn, the role of the Holy Ghost in our daily lives, and the powerful scriptural themes woven throughout the text. Along the way, they reflect on personal experiences with guidance, comfort, testimony, repentance, and learning to “speak with the tongue of angels.” This episode also includes a full performance of the hymn. Returning to Knowing Hymn after 2½ years Thoughts on the new Hymns—For Home and Church collection Favorite newly released hymns The story behind “The Power of the Holy Ghost” The influence of the Holy Ghost in times of trial Speaking with “the tongue of angels” The Holy Ghost as Comforter, teacher, and guide Singing the hymn together Hymn 1055 – “The Power of the Holy Ghost” Words and music by Delys Waite Snyder 2 Nephi 32:2–3 Mosiah 4:3 Mosiah 5:2 John 14:16–17 John 14:26–27 President Wilford Woodruff on the gift of the Holy Ghost President Henry B. Eyring (April 2015 General Conference) Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, “The Tongue of Angels” (April 2007 General Conference) Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing Faith in Every Footstep It Is Well with My Soul His Eye Is on the Sparrow Were You There? This Little Light of Mine Gethsemane Holy Places Anytime, Anywhere I Know That My Savior Loves Me Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Website: https://knowinghymn.weebly.com/ Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6a5S3nTSwztTYqSfvateld?si=JnIbvw4IRGOZbY4fktQfXg If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love to hear from you! Send us your thoughts, favorite hymns, or suggestions for future episodes. Thanks for listening, and join us next time as we sing our way to knowing Him.
27 min
This week on Knowing Hymn, we talk about hymn #87, God is Love with text by Thomas R Taylor and music by Thomas C Griggs. Learn about this wonderful hymn full of nature and love. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in 1, 2, and 3 John. Join us as we discuss finding God’s love in the world around us. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter@ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.
31 min
This week on Knowing Hymn, we talk about hymn #228, You Can Make the Pathway Bright with text by Helen Silcott Dungan and music by James Dungan. Learn about this husband/wife team that created this hymn of inspiration. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in 1 and 2 Peter. Join us as we discuss finding joy in the midst of adversity. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter@ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.
41 min
This week on Knowing Hymn, we talk about hymn #26, Joseph Smith’s First Prayer with text by George Manwaring and music by Sylvanus Billings Pond and adapted by A.C. Smyth. Learn about this wonderful hymn that celebrates the beginning of the restoration of the gospel in the latter days. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in James. Join us as we discuss letting our faith compel us to action. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter @ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.
26 min
This week on Knowing Hymn, we talk about hymn #128, When Faith Endures with text by Naomi W. Randall and music by Stephen M. Jones. Learn how this beautiful hymn of faith was constructed out of the faith of these two faithful saints. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in Hebrews 7-13. Join us as we discuss great examples of faith throughout the scriptures. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter @ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.
6 min
On this special bonus episode of Knowing Hymn, Steve shares one of his compositions: a unique setting of the text of "I Need Thee Every Hour."
28 min
This week on Knowing Hymn, we talk about hymn #98, I Need Thee Every Hour with text by Annie S. Hawkes and music by Robert Lowry. Hear about the remarkable housewife who wrote over 400 hymn text and brought us these beautiful words of joy and comfort. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in Hebrews 1-6. Join us as we discuss our gracious, all-knowing, and all-compassionate Savior. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter@ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.
33 min
This week on Knowing Hymn, we talk about hymn #293, Each Life that Touches Ours for Good with text by Karen Lynn Davidson and music by A. Laurence Lyon. Learn about the backstory of this hymn and how it can move us to a greater sense of gratitude and compassion. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Join us as we discuss being an example of the believers to all around us. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter@ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.
33 min
This week on Knowing Hymn, we talk about hymn #59, Come, O Thou King of Kings with text by Parley P. Pratt. Learn about this remarkable man of faith and his passionate pleading for the Lord to come again. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Join us as we discuss the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter @ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.
28 min
This week, we talk about hymn #142, Sweet Hour of Prayer with text by William W. Walford and music by William Bradbury. Hear how a blind pastor used his remarkable gift to give us these tender words. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in Philippians and Colossians. Join as we discuss finding joy in whatever situation we find ourselves. Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter@ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com
26 min
This week, we talk about hymn #259, Hope of Israel with text by Joseph L. Townsend and music by William Clayson. Hear about the long-standing collaboration between these two artists as they created many of our beloved hymns. Our hymn this week corresponds with the Come, Follow Me reading in Ephesians. Join us as we discuss putting on the Armor of God. To watch the Armor of God video mentioned in today’s episode, click here . Connect with us! Website: KnowingHymn.weebly.com Facebook Group: Knowing Hymn Instagram: KnowingHymn Twitter@ KnowingHymn Email: knowinghymn@gmail.com Check out Steve’s other podcast, Moveable Do , where he interviews living composers about their lives, their musical journeys, and, of course, their music.