The homestead is a symbol of community.

In a September 15, 1843, journal entry, Joseph Smith wrote, "Being constantly crowded with strangers and other persons [...] from the foundation of the church; my house has been a home and resting place for thousands" (emphasis added).

Although Joseph wrote these words in reference to the Mansion House in Nauvoo, where he moved after living in the Homestead (pictured above), the sentiment applies just as well to any home where Joseph lived. His house was always the center of church activity, and visitors were constantly sleeping in his bed, craning their necks through the windows to hear his sermons, and eating meals at his table.

Joseph's knack for building community and making people feel loved has always touched me. Joseph said, "I would esteem it one of the greatest blessings, if I am to be afflicted in this world, to have my lot cast where I can find brothers and friends all around me.” He cared about friendship a lot, and even stated that "Friendship is one of the grand fundamental principles of 'Mormonism'." 

In today's world that struggles with loneliness, people need friends and a community that will support them in their lows and cheer them on in their highs. Luckily, the arts have a special way of bringing people together. Struggling together through long rehearsals, creating beautiful music together, and feeling the payoff of a grand applause... all of these things have a magical way of tying our spirits together and fostering bonds of friendship and love.

The Homestead Foundation seeks to build community through the arts. Inasmuch as the board, our volunteers, and I can play some small role in furthering that goal, our work will have been for good.

Cristian Torres