Emotional farewell: Pres. Faust praised at funeral for his wisdom, compassion and love

President Faust's son, Bishop Marcus Faust, told church members of his father's deep love and dedication to his wife and family, as well as to his faith. Through his leadership in their family, "church, gospel, missions and family are all one and the same; the interwoven fabric of our lives."

Bishop Faust recalled a General Conference address in which his father shared thoughts penned during a particularly trying time in Argentina. With emotion in his voice, he read from his father's talk, recalling a "fleeting feeling of being forsaken. Then being reinforced a hundred fold I have climbed a spiritual Mount Sinai dozens of times seeking to communicate and receive instructions.

"It has been as though I have struggled up an almost real Mount of Transfiguration and upon occasion felt great strength and power in the presence of the Divine. A special sacred feeling has been a sustaining influence and often a close companion."

Bishop Faust said serving with President Hinckley in the First Presidency had been "the greatest joy of (President Faust's) ministry," and thanked President Monson and the other General Authorities for their friendship and expressions of love.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir provided music for the service and sang as a closing hymn and tribute "This is the Christ," which was written by President Faust. Beloved among Latter-day Saints, it describes Jesus Christ and the reality of His role as Redeemer of the world.

Security was tight on Temple Square, with church service missionaries operating metal detectors at the north and south gates and security personnel visible around the Tabernacle. Following the one-hour service, a hearse containing President Faust's flower-bedecked wooden casket made its way to Holladay Memorial Park with a full police escort.

The remaining two members of the First Presidency, members of the Quorum of the Twelve and other General Authorities of the church and their wives joined the motorcade, which arrived at the cemetery just before 2 p.m. Hushed tones and whispers signaled the approach of President Hinckley and Sister Faust and her family.

The Disabled American Veterans, Salt Lake Chapter 6, stood at attention as the pallbearers carried the flag-draped casket to its final resting place. President Hinckley stood and welcomed the mourners to the grave dedication of "our beloved James Esdras Faust."

Family members moved closer, comforting each other as a son, James H. Faust, gave a short prayer dedicating his father's grave. The military honor guard gave a three-volley salute in honor of President Faust's military service in the Army Air Corps during World War II.

The bugle played a slow and mournful rendition of "Taps," then the honor guard came forward and, with quiet precision, folded the flag covering the casket and presented it to Sister Faust.