What Do Mormons Do in the Temple?
Temple Marriages and Family Sealings
The temple serves many purposes. The temple is used to marry people of the Mormon faith. One unique feature of the temple marriage is that couples believe that they are sealed for time and all eternity. During the Mormon marriage temple ceremony, the couple vows their devotion to God and each other. Only those with a Mormon temple recommend may attend the ceremony. The temple is also used for family sealings. Mormons believe that if a family is sealed to each other, they can dwell in the Kingdom of God forever. Families can take comfort in knowing that their family will be together forever.
Baptisms
Mormons believe in baptizing the dead who never had the opportunity to during their lives. Young Mormon youth can obtain a limited-use temple recommend to perform the baptisms for the dead. One of the reasons why the Mormon Church is heavily involved in genealogy and family history, is to do baptism for the dead. Mormons believe that through baptizing those who did not have the chance when they were living, we are helping them get closer to the celestial kingdom.
The Endowment
One of the most sacred and defining moments in the life of a member of the Mormon Church comes when they receive their endowment. Mormons take out endowments and make promises to God in the temple. They learn more about their role here on earth and the mission of Jesus Christ. The celestial room in the temple can be used as a place to seek counsel and inspiration from the Lord. Mormons learn the principles necessary to live with our Heavenly Father again. The temple inspires members to be better spouses, parents, and children of the Lord. The temple inspires people. Outside the temple is a visitors’ center where anyone can visit and learn more about the temple and Mormon faith. Mormon missionaries are happy to give tours within the visitors’ center or answer and any questions you may have.
Mormons are encouraged to attend the temple at least once a month. This can be challenging for those who do not live near a temple. Some faithful members drive hours just to attend the temple. The church is trying to accommodate this problem by constructing more temples. Because the temple is a place of refuge from the outside world, Mormons prefer to keep the ordinances and ceremonies performed within the temple private. In fact, Mormons take a vow not to publicize what is done in the temple with anyone. Mormons do not attend Sunday meetings in the temple, for those are held in chapels.