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Critics claim that it is un-Christian to have hymns honoring Joseph Smith
See also: Source(s) of the criticism
Hymns and other memorials to fallen leaders or faithful Christians was not uncommon in the early Church. In fact it was quite common.
“Sing for the martyrs that have fallen asleep, and for all the saints from the beginning of the world–as well as for your brothers who are asleep in the Lord.” (Ante-Nicene Fathers 7:464, Apostolic Constitutions, 390 AD, E)
“Take note of their days on which they depart, so that we may celebrate their commemoration among the memorials of the martyrs...There are celebrated here by us oblations and sacrifices for their commemorations.” (Ante-Nicene Fathers 5:315, Cyprian, 250 AD, W)
“Let [the slaves] rest on the day of the first martyr Stephen and of the other holy martyrs who preferred Christ to their own life.” (Ante-Nicene Fathers 7:495, Apostolic Constitutions 390 AD, E)
We can see that hymns, and other commemorations were given to righteous Christians who passed on.
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