Mormon Temple Ceremony and Worship

Mormon Temple worship and the ceremonies which take place inside are often a subject of curiosity and scrutiny. Because the worship which takes place in LDS temples is closed to the public, there is the potential for suspicion, rumor, misunderstanding, or inaccurate information. This is unfortunate. My website is designed to enlighten readers, to answer questions, and to build bridges of understanding.

Latter-day Saints wish the world to understand that our temple worship is not deemed so much as “secret”, but rather “sacred”. In other words, it is something so special to us we keep it private and personal. In the temple, we make Covenants (holy promises) to God, which includes a covenant that we will not discuss the temple endowment ceremony details publicly (for more details on what can and cannot be discussed see this informative post on TempleStudy) This is not a unique concept. People of all religions make sacred promises with God and choose not to discuss the details publicly. No one wishes to have something which is holy to them be mocked. (yet, unfortunately, there are those who still choose to do so anyway). In a world where  “nothing is sacred anymore”, it is refreshing to know that there are still quiet havens of peace, tranquility, and beauty dedicated to worship throughout the world. Mormon temples stand as beautiful beacons of purity and holiness.

Before dedication of a new temple, there is always an Open House where the community is welcomed to attend a free tour. Those who take advantage of this are sure to come away inspired by the beauty. craftmanship, and peacefulness.

After dedication, only devout members who meet high standards of morality and worthiness enter. The ceremonies that take place within include Eternal Marriage, and proxy work for our deceased ancestors such as baptism. The ceremonies are simple and symbolic. It is the feeling of God’s power and presence which makes the temple experience so special. LDS Temple worship is patterned from ancient Biblical temple practice, however there are no blood sacrifices (the Law of Moses was fulfilled with the advent of Jesus Christ). There is also no burning of incense. Everything in the temple is centered on Jesus Christ, the purpose of life, and the joy of family. Many members of the church attend the temple when they are facing a particularly hard challenge in order to pray for guidance and feel peace in times of turmoil. There is the most wonderful spirit of kindness, joy, and tranquility within the temple that cannot be felt or replicated anywhere else. When we enter, we dress in white clothing, to symbolize purity, and we move quietly and reverently.

For me, each time I enter a temple, it is a chance to leave the troubles of the world behind and experience a little bit of heaven on earth. It recharges my spiritual battery, and helps me be a better wife, mother, friend, co-worker and individual. 

From time to time the media and Hollywood may portray Mormon Temple worship. Whether this is done in a sensational & mysterious manner, or in an attempt to be positive and accurate, the temple’s spirit of holiness will always be lost when taken out of context and put on public display.

We wish for everyone to learn more about our beliefs and to understand our temple worship! I invite you to  read more on our offical websites, locate and visit a nearby Temple visitor center in your area, or watch an indepth documentary of Mormon Temples called “Between Heaven And Earth“ . The Church produced this film which includes interviews of LDS and non-LDS biblical scholars and respected world religious leaders. The entire film is available on my Temple Page. Watch this great short preview!