Mormon Beliefs

Mormon Temples

The Mormon temple is one of the most sacred and treasured places for Mormons. The temple is thought to be the house of the Lord here on earth. It is thought of as a sanctuary or refuge from the outside world. We read in the Old Testament that temples were used anciently, when the Lord instructed Solomon to build a temple for his people. Mormon Temple construction was later reintroduced by Joseph Smith through inspiration from the Lord. The Lord said to Joseph Smith, “my people are always commanded to build [temples] unto my holy name" (D&C 124:39-40). Through studying Mormon history, we know that Mormons have sacrificed much in order to have temples. Temple worship played a large role in ancient Judaism and Christianity. However, the sacredness of the temple was lost during a time called “The Great Apostasy.” 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.