What does it mean for a Latter-day Saint to go through the Temple?
This article was contributed by a local member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The views expressed may not represent the views and positions of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For the Church's official site, visit churchofjesuschrist.org.
Going through the temple is an act of faith and progression to a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
“To go through the temple” is a broad and vague phrase. It means taking part in special ceremonies that bring members of the Church and their families closer to God.
There are three main ceremonies that can take place in the temple:
- Baptism for our Ancestors
- Endowment
- Sealings
Did you know?
Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints prefer not to be called “mormons?” The term “mormon” is a nickname that comes from a book of scripture called “The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Christ.” Learn more.
The word Mormon is fine to use in proper names, like the Book of Mormon, or in historical expressions like the Mormon Trail. But we ask that you refer to us as “Latter-day Saints” or “members of the restored Church of Jesus Christ.”
Baptism
To be baptized is to promise to always remember Christ so that His spirit may always be with you.
Baptism for the dead is a proxy act done for the departed. It is a ceremony of being baptized on behalf of those who have already passed.
The Rome Temple practices baptism for the dead, and this ceremony is usually performed by the youth of the Church.
Endowment
The Endowment is a special promise that is made between man and God. Here is where members learn more about God’s plan for them, as they commit to becoming better. This ceremony is very symbolic and is very sacred among members of the Church.
Sealings
Members of the Church think much differently than the commonly thought, “till death do we part,” stated in common marriage rituals.
In a temple sealing, a man and his wife are married to each other for eternity. Temple marriages are not only a promise between the husband and wife, but also with God.
Temples are vital in the lives of Latter-Day Saints. Within the walls of the Rome Temple, volunteers dedicate hours of work as service as they try to get closer to God. Latter-Day Saints become closer to God when they go through the temple.
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