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Temples are an integral part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It has been said that the Latter-day Saints are a temple-building people. At present, more than 90 temples are in operation all over the world. Worthy members of the Church can now participate in sacred ordinances in even some of the most remote areas of the earth.
Many wonder exactly what happens inside the temple and why there seems to be so much secrecy about the temple ceremonies. We believe that the ordinances performed inside the temple are very sacred. Those who do not understand the nature of the ceremonies may mock what we believe to be very important promises, or covenants, that we make with the Lord. Since the world does not understand the sacredness of the covenants, we are instructed to not share nor discuss any of the ceremonies that take place inside the temple. Thus, some interpret our reverence for God and His temple as a negative type of secrecy. Many ordinances take place inside the temple. Some of these ordinances include baptism for the dead, sealings, and other personal, individual promises we make. We learn from the scriptures that every person who has ever lived upon the earth must have the opportunity to learn of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Since many have been born, lived, and then died while the gospel was not available, it would seem unfair that they could not receive exaltation simply because they did not have the opportunity to hear the gospel or participate in the proper ordinances. During the time between death and the resurrection spirits have the opportunity to learn the gospel. (See previous article entitled "Life After Death," August 8, 2000) "For for this cause was the gospel preached unto them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit." (1 Peter 4:6) Even if they accept, however, they no longer have the mortal body with which to be baptized. Therefore, we serve as proxies for those who have died and receive baptism in their place. It is then up to that individual on the other side to accept or reject that baptism. We perform baptisms for the dead just as was done during the time of Paul. (See 1 Corinthians 15:29) Go To Page: 1 2
The copyright of the article Temples in Mormon Church is owned by Rebecca Talley. Permission to republish Temples in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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