Mormon Temples
Many different religions throughout the world today have temples that they use to perform church ordinances and worship. For Mormons, the Mormon temple is one of the most sacred and treasured places. It is considered a celestial or perfect place on this earth. The temple is considered the house of the Lord here on earth. It is thought of as a sanctuary or refuge from the outside world. The Old Testament tells us that temples were used anciently, when the Lord instructed Solomon to build a temple for his people. Temple worship played a large role in ancient Judaism and Christianity. During “The Great Apostasy,” which Mormons consider as a time when the church fell off the earth due to wickedness, temples ceased to be built or used on the earth. An apostasy occurs when the people turn away from God’s true gospel teachings and follow a wicked path. At that point, the Lord pulls the priesthood, revelation, and other blessings from the earth until a later time.
Through studying Mormon history, we know that Mormons have sacrificed much in order to have temples. Mormons were run out of their homes, withstood torment and mockery for their temples. Mormons believe that Joseph Smith restored the true gospel of Jesus Christ on the earth. Through revelation from the Lord, Joseph Smith began construction on the first temple, built in Kirtland, Ohio. Later, the Lord revealed unto Joseph the sacred ordinances and ceremonies that were to take place in the temple.
Mormons perform sacred ordinances and make promises to the Lord within the Mormon temple. It is a place where members of the Mormon Church can seek refuge and seek inspiration from the Lord. Mormon marriages take place within the temple. Families are sealed to each other. Sacred ordinances for the dead are performed. Only adult members of the church can attend the temple regularly. Young adults in the church can receive a limited-use recommend to perform baptisms for the dead and confirmations. In the temple, members learn eternal truths, receive sacred ordinances, and have a place to commune and praise God. Special ordinances are made in the temple for those who died before hearing the gospel message.
There are currently over 100 operating temples in the world. Mormons have temples throughout Asia, Canada, South America, Europe, Mexico, Australia, and the United States. Those who work inside the temple are usually elderly members of the church who are now retired and have time to volunteer. Although only endowed members of the Mormon Church can attend the temple, anyone is welcome on the temple grounds. There is also a visitors’ center where people can learn more about the Mormon Church and Mormon temples.
More on Mormon Temples:
What do Mormons do in the temple?
Who can attend the temple?
Why is there so much secrecy concerning Mormon temples?
