“Press Forward Saints” Singing Time Ideas

The lyrics to this song come straight out of the Book of Mormon and I knew I had to teach this one to my primary kids!

We also can sing this song for July around Pioneer Day, which makes it an awesome double-dip song. Or teach it during Doctrine and Covenants year.

“Press Forward Saints” Pictures out of Order

For this, you will need icons or pictures of the following:

• Someone pushing on something (Press Forward Saints)
• A picture of Jesus Christ holding a childs hand (Steadfast faith in Christ)
• A fire flame (Hope’s bright flame alight)
• A heart (Heart)
• A brain (Mind)
• A heart with “love of God” written on it (Love of God)
• A picture of lots of people (all mankind)
• Hands raised to heaven (Alleluia)

Have the kids hold pictures up and try to get them in order while you sing the song!

“Press Forward Saints” Spoon Actions

These actions are meant to be done close to the floor so have your kids sit in a circle or on the floor in front of their chairs. Watch the video to see all of the actions!

“Press Forward Saints” with Flag Actions

Songs like this with strong beats and words like “Alleluia” are great for using flags!

“Press Forward Saints” Body Rhythm Cards

I found these great body rhythm cards on the Sharla Dance Facebook Group by Kim Bowman but you can make your own if you like!

On the chalkboard draw 4 squares for 4 beats. In each square, put a body rhythm cue card (clap, hand slide, stomp, snap, rest, etc).

Begin singing with simple body rhythms – I like to do 2 claps, 2 stomps to begin. Then ask the children to help you make it more complex. Add in different body rhythm actions and get down the pattern of 4 beats while singing the song!

I would not do snaps or rests for Junior Primary, only Senior Primary.

Enhanced Version: Kim made partner rhythm cards! Some folks prefer partners with only Senior Primary but I actually have found that my Junior kids do fine at it, if I simplify. Just do what works best for you!