The Assembly Hall on Temple Square was nearly filled Monday morning as people gathered for the Days of '47 Sunrise Service, a kickoff for the day's Pioneer Day celebrations.

Elder Merrill J. Bateman of the presidency of the Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recognized that July 2006 marks the 150th anniversary of the departure of the ill-fated Willie and Martin Handcart Companies. Few experienced the severe hardship endured by these companies, Elder Bateman said.

However, he said, all pioneers "stepped out into the unknown with faith and determination.

"Faith was the driving force" behind the pioneer exodus to the Salt Lake Valley, Elder Bateman said.

He related two stories about pioneer faith, including a story about a member of the Willie and Martin handcart companies.

With such heritage to lean on, Elder Bateman said, "I pray we will not shrink when adversity crosses our path."

The sunrise service, sponsored by the Sons of Utah Pioneers, is held every year before the Days of '47 parade begins. The winners of the Days of '47 essay contest were announced, and the Days of '47 royalty were introduced.

In addition, "The Star-Spangled Banner" was sung by George Dyer, and several musical numbers were performed by the Choral Arts Society of Utah Master Chorale and the Golden Voices Gospel Ensemble.

Golden Voices had the audience on their feet, singing and clapping along with "I Need You," a song composed following Sept. 11. The song's lyrics, also quoted by Elder Bateman, run in part, "You pray for me/I'll pray for you/I need you to survive."

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