Similarities between the Church president who initiated construction of the Salt Lake Tabernacle and the one who presided over its recent renovation were spotlighted by Elder Earl C. Tingey of the Presidency of the Seventy during his Saturday afternoon address.
"These two great prophets, President Brigham Young and President Gordon B. Hinckley, are linked together in their shared prophetic vision that comes from seeing the future and having the faith to bring that vision into present reality," Elder Tingey said.
He compared the two in four different categories:
Pioneers and builders. Brigham Young led the pioneers to the Salt Lake Valley where they settled and prospered. Elder Tingey said. Of President Hinckley, he said, "He has traveled the world, meeting kings, queens, and presidents. ... He continues to bring the Church 'out of obscurity."'
Spreading the gospel and valuing education. Elder Tingey noted that Brigham Young established the Perpetual Emigrating Fund and established several schools. While presiding over tremendous growth in the Church, President Hinckley, said Elder Tingey, "continues to support Church universities and Church education. More than 26,000 members now enjoy the benefits of the Perpetual Education Fund."
Love for youth and all members of the Church. An example of Brigham Young's love for youth was opening the door of his home to a young fatherless boy, Heber J. Grant, said Elder Tingey. He added, "The youth of the Church especially reach out to President Hinckley for prophetic counsel.'
Love for the Prophet Joseph Smith. Elder Tingey quoted Brigham Young: "I feel like shouting Hallelujah, all the time, when I think that I ever knew Joseph Smith." And quoting President Hinckley, he said, "I do not worship the Prophet Joseph Smith, but I reverence and love this great seer through whom the miracle of this gospel has been restored."
