Elizabeth Fetzer Bates made valuable contributions to LDS children’s music. Her composition “Book of Mormon Stories” stemmed from wanting to make scripture lessons accessible to young learners.
Her success came from understanding how children learn through repetition and simple patterns. The song uses basic musical structures that even the youngest singers can master.
While this remains her best-known work, Bates created numerous educational materials for LDS children.
Her approach focused on engagement rather than mere instruction, helping generations connect with their faith.
About the Song “Book of Mormon Stories Lyrics”
“Book of Mormon Stories” appears in the LDS Children’s Songbook as a teaching resource for both church and home settings. The song helps children learn and recall important Book of Mormon stories through music.
The song uses a basic structure with repetitive sections for easy learning. This thoughtful design allows even very young children to join in quickly, before they can read or fully grasp all concepts.
The simple melody fits comfortably in children’s vocal range, making it ideal for group singing. Its effectiveness as a memory tool shows in how many adults from LDS backgrounds still remember both tune and words many years later.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1980s |
| Album | The Book of Mormon Stories (Church Music Album) |
| Writer & Producer | Elizabeth Fetzer Bates |
| Genre | Religious/Inspirational |
| Length | Varies (usually around 2 minutes) |
Lyrics of Book of Mormon stories
Verse 1
Book of Mormon stories that my teacher tells to me
Are about the Lamanites in ancient history.
Long ago their fathers came from far across the sea,
Giv’n the land if they lived righteously.
Verse 2
Lamanites met others who were seeking liberty,
And the land soon welcomed all who wanted to be free.
Book of Mormon stories say that we must brothers be,
Giv’n the land if we live righteously.
Verse 3
Alma was rebellious, and he fought against the right.
Then one day an angel came to turn him to the light.
Struck before his brethren, Alma learned humility.
Then he taught in the land righteously.
Verse 4
Don’t forget Abinadi, who stood before the king.
All chained up from head to toe, the gospel he did bring.
If he would deny it, then the king would set him free.
He was true, and he died righteously.
Verse 5
Ammon was a missionary serving Lamanites,
Tending King Lamoni’s sheep for several days and nights.
Robbers came; he saved the sheep by fighting fearlessly.
He had learned he could live righteously.
Verse 6
Once two thousand sons of God were called to fight the foe.
Marching as an army into battle they did go.
They believed that Christ the Lord their guardian would be.
They had learned they should live righteously.
Verse 7
Samuel the Lamanite, high on the city wall,
Came to warn the people, and repentance was his call.
Arrows could not hit him, for a man of God was he,
And he taught in the land righteously.
Verse 8
(Slowly and reverently)
After Christ was crucified and died for you and me,
He came forth to teach the truth to all who would be free.
Hands were laid upon each child. He blessed them tenderly,
And they lived in the land righteously.
Themes in Book of Mormon Stories Lyrics
The lyrics focus on several key religious concepts that connect with young listeners:
- Faith – Shows how Book of Mormon figures trusted divine guidance even in difficult situations
- Obedience – Highlights how following commandments leads to positive outcomes in the stories
- Courage – Illustrates how characters showed bravery when facing challenges or opposition
- Family – Emphasizes the importance of family relationships throughout the Book of Mormon accounts
- Prayer – Demonstrates how characters communicated with the deity during important moments
- Redemption – Presents stories of change and spiritual growth in simple, accessible terms
The musical elements support these themes through repetition and simple melodies, helping children internalize the messages while enjoying the singing experience.
Similar Songs from the Book of Mormon Musical
These tracks share the educational purpose of “Book of Mormon Stories,” while each brings unique elements to children’s religious music:
Follow the Prophet by Duane E. Hiatt
This song teaches children about key prophets from scripture through short, memorable verses. Each section focuses on a different spiritual leader while maintaining a consistent musical pattern throughout.
Genre: Repetitive instructional song
Used for: Teaching children about various prophets and the benefits of following spiritual guidance through a catchy, easy-to-remember format that builds knowledge progressively with each verse.
Nephi’s Courage by Bill N. Hansen Jr.
This composition narrates the story of Nephi obtaining the brass plates, highlighting his bravery and faith. The lyrics use simple language to make this important Book of Mormon account accessible to young listeners.
Genre: Narrative religious song
Used for: Helping children connect emotionally with a specific Book of Mormon hero through music that emphasizes positive character traits they can apply in their own lives.
I Am a Child of God by Naomi W. Randall
This fundamental LDS children’s song establishes the concept of divine identity and heavenly parentage. The melody stays within a comfortable range for young voices, making it accessible even to the youngest singers.
Genre: Identity-affirming hymn
Used for: Building a foundation of self-worth and purpose within the faith by teaching children about their relationship with deity through simple, profound lyrics set to a gentle melody.
Inspired by these Book of Mormon stories? You can write your meaningful songs, too! Check out our Learn How to Write a Song Easily post to get started on your songwriting journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Golden Rule in The Book of Mormon?
The golden rule appears in 3 Nephi 14:12: treat others as you wish to be treated.
What is the Famous Line from The Book of Mormon?
“And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.”
What is the Longest Scripture in The Book of Mormon?
Alma is the longest book in the Book of Mormon, consisting of sixty-three chapters, which makes up almost a third of the volume.
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