The Iron Rod
I've wanted to arrange this song for some time--particularly with youth in mind. This was for my ward choir with a young intermediate pianist. I hope it is accessible as well as powerful. A quick teaser is available here, or check out the full video on YouTube.
2024 update: Now available as a piano solo.
Voicing: SATB with piano
Topics: The Book of Mormon, Commitment, Encouragement, Guidance, Prophets, Revelation, Scriptures, Trials
Lyrics: Joseph L. Townsend, 1849-1942
Music: William Clayson, 1840-1887
Arranged: Rachel P. Mohlman
LYRICS
To Nephi, seer of olden time,
A vision came from God,
Wherein the holy word sublime
Was shown an iron rod.
Hold to the rod, the iron rod;
’Tis strong, and bright, and true.
The iron rod is the word of God;
’Twill safely guide us through.
While on our journey here below,
Beneath temptation’s pow’r,
Through mists of darkness we must go,
In peril ev’ry hour.
And when temptation’s pow’r is nigh,
Our pathway clouded o’er,
Upon the rod we can rely,
And heaven’s aid implore.
Hold to the rod, the iron rod;
’Tis strong, and bright, and true.
The iron rod is the word of God;
’Twill safely guide us through.
And, hand o’er hand, the rod along,
Through each succeeding day,
With earnest prayer and hopeful song,
We’ll still pursue our way.
Afar we see the golden rest
To which the rod will guide,
Where, with the angels bright and blest,
Forever we’ll abide.
Hold to the rod! Hold to the rod!
Hold to the rod, the iron rod;
’Tis strong, and bright, and true.
The iron rod is the word of God;
The word of God will safely guide us through.