Historic Broadcast of Tabernacle Choir Reaches Millions in Africa

Tabernacle Choir's African Expansion: A Historic Milestone

On April 19, 2026, a significant chapter in the history of The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square was written as their weekly broadcast, Music and the Spoken Word, reached millions of viewers across 25 African nations. This landmark event marks not just an expansion of reach, but a deepening connection with audiences on the African continent who cherish sacred music and uplifting messages.

The live broadcast, which took place in the iconic Salt Lake Tabernacle, was a moment of celebration and reflection. Choir President Michael O. Leavitt shared the historical significance, emphasizing that for nearly a century, this program has been a beacon of hope and spirituality. He stated, "For nearly 100 years, this program has aired weekly from here in the Tabernacle to the world.” The decision to expand the broadcast to Africa builds on a long-standing tradition of sharing faith and music, which resonates deeply with many.

Senior leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and special guests were present for this inaugural broadcast. President D. Todd Christofferson and other members of the church's leadership stood in the audience, celebrating this momentous occasion. Derrick Porter, the program's executive producer, noted the historical context, referencing that April 19 also marks the day when the first missionaries of the church set foot in South Africa in 1853.

As of now, around 1 million Latter-day Saints on the African continent embody the church's growth and its connection to the local cultures. Elder Edward Dube, a member of the church's leadership and a Zimbabwean native, spoke to the essence of the church in Africa. He stated, "African people are God-fearing people. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is growing rapidly in Africa because it connects people with Jesus Christ and focuses on eternal families through temple ordinances and covenants.”

The choir's presence in Africa is further emphasized by the integral role music plays in African culture. Elder Dube noted, "Music is a way of worship. It is the song of the heart. He loves us. We are His children.” The connection between spirituality and artistry is celebrated through the sounds of the choir, enhancing the overall impact of the broadcast.

Before and after the special broadcast, the St. Mary Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and Parkley's Creek Branch (Swahili-speaking) contributed their rich musical tradition, reinforcing the shared connections through faith and artistry. The special episode, themed The Joy We Share, emphasized finding joy through faith and spirituality.

As Choir President Leavitt highlighted, this broadcast has the potential to resonate deeply, reaching millions across multiple countries, and providing a consistent source of inspiration. The extraordinary milestone indicates not just a moment in broadcasting but the beginning of ongoing engagement with diverse audiences.

The Tabernacle Choir, renowned worldwide, consists of 360 dedicated volunteer members and has recorded over 5,000 episodes of its weekly broadcast, reinforcing its status as the longest-running continuous network program in history. Together with the 200-member Orchestra at Temple Square, formed in 1999, they aim to share their music and message of faith with audiences across the globe, continuing to foster unity and inspiration.

As this historic moment unfurls, it symbolizes the choir’s commitment to nurturing spiritual connections and celebrating the universal language of music within the vast, diverse cultures of Africa.

This groundbreaking broadcast not only connects believers but also establishes a cultural dialogue that enriches both the choir and the communities it reaches, ensuring that the essence of faith and music harmoniously intertwine across continents. The journey of Music and the Spoken Word in Africa has just begun, promising to amplify voices of faith, love, and unity across nations.