LDS temples are sacred buildings dedicated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as houses of the Lord. Distinct from local meetinghouses where weekly Sunday worship occurs, temples are sites for specific religious ordinances, including marriages and proxy baptisms. Access is restricted to members who meet specific spiritual standards, though public access is permitted during open houses before dedication.
The Role and Purpose of LDS Temples
For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, temples represent the most sacred space on earth. While regular Sunday services—held in meetinghouses or chapels—are open to the public for general worship and community activities, temples are reserved for higher-level ordinances. These ordinances are considered essential for salvation and the exaltation of families in the afterlife.
The theological foundation for these structures rests on the concept of eternal progression and the belief that relationships formed within the temple can endure beyond death. By performing "ordinances"—a term used by the Church to describe sacred rites such as baptisms, confirmations, and the "endowment"—members aim to fulfill religious covenants. A significant portion of temple activity is devoted to "proxy work," where living members perform these same rites on behalf of deceased ancestors who did not have the opportunity to receive them during their lifetimes. This practice is rooted in the doctrine that all individuals deserve access to the same spiritual privileges, regardless of when or where they lived.
Eligibility and Requirements for Entry
Access to an LDS temple is not granted to the general public once the building has been dedicated. To enter a temple for regular service, an individual must be a member of the Church in good standing. This "good standing" is verified through a document known as a "temple recommend."
To obtain a temple recommend, a member must participate in a formal interview with their local ecclesiastical leader, typically a bishop or branch president. During this interview, the member confirms their adherence to fundamental Church teachings, including:
- Faith in God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.
- Support for the leadership of the Church.
- Compliance with the Law of Chastity (abstinence from sexual relations outside of marriage).
- Adherence to the Word of Wisdom (a health code prohibiting alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea).
- Honesty in dealings and consistent attendance at worship services.
The recommend is a physical or digital document that serves as a key for entry. It is valid for up to two years, after which the member must undergo a renewal interview to ensure continued adherence to these standards.
The Phases of Temple Operations
The lifecycle of an LDS temple follows a specific sequence of events, governed by the Church’s central administration in Salt Lake City. Understanding this sequence is vital for members and community members alike.
- Announcement: The Church President announces the intention to build a temple, often during a General Conference.
- Site Selection and Construction: The Church identifies a location, secures permits, and begins construction, which can take several years.
- Public Open House: Before the temple is dedicated, the Church invites the public to tour the interior. This is the only time non-members or members without recommends can enter the sacred areas of the facility.
- Cultural Celebration (Optional): In many cases, youth perform music and dance to celebrate the cultural heritage of the region.
- Dedication: A formal religious service is held where the building is "dedicated" as a house of the Lord. Post-dedication, the temple is closed to the public.
- Operation: The temple operates on a schedule determined by local needs, offering various ordinances by appointment.
Comparison of Meetinghouses and Temples
Many observers confuse local meetinghouses with temples. While both are Church-owned properties, they serve fundamentally different functions in the religious life of a Latter-day Saint.
| Feature | Meetinghouse (Chapel) | LDS Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Weekly Sunday worship, classes, social events | Sacred ordinances, marriages, sealings |
| Public Access | Open to anyone; visitors welcome | Restricted to members with a temple recommend |
| Frequency | Used weekly for congregation meetings | Used for individual appointments and ordinance sessions |
| Dress Code | Sunday best (formal/modest) | White temple clothing after changing from street attire |
| Availability | Thousands located globally | Fewer, often serving large geographical regions |
Practical Guidance for Visitors and Members
If you are interested in visiting a temple, your approach depends entirely on your status with the Church.
For Non-Members and Those Without a Recommend: Your opportunity to see the interior of a temple occurs exclusively during the designated public open house period. These events are announced on the Church’s official website and in local media. If there is no open house scheduled for a temple in your area, you are still permitted to visit the grounds. Most temple grounds are beautifully landscaped and open to the public for prayer, reflection, and photography.
For Members Seeking Access: If you are a member of the Church and wish to enter the temple for ordinances, your first step is to meet with your bishop. If you have been inactive or have questions about the standards required for a recommend, the bishop is the assigned resource to guide you through the process of preparation. Once you have a recommend, you should use the official Church scheduling portal to book appointments for specific ordinances. This ensures that the temple staff can accommodate your visit and that the temple remains a peaceful, organized environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a temple open house? A public open house is a tour for the general community. The Church provides guides who explain the purpose of the rooms and the nature of the sacred rites performed inside. It is designed to be an educational and respectful experience for people of all faiths.
Can anyone be married in an LDS temple? Marriage in a temple, known as a "sealing," is restricted to members who hold a current temple recommend. Because it is a religious rite intended to join a couple for eternity, it carries specific prerequisites that must be met prior to the ceremony.
Why does the Church require a health code for temple entry? The Word of Wisdom is a dietary code that members believe demonstrates a commitment to self-discipline and physical health. Following these guidelines is considered a sign of one’s preparation and worthiness to enter the most sacred space of the Church.
How are temples funded? Temples are funded through the Church’s general funds, which are largely sustained by tithing contributions from members worldwide. The Church does not solicit public donations for the construction or maintenance of these facilities.
Do I need an appointment to enter the temple grounds? No. The exterior grounds, including gardens and visitor areas, are generally open to the public without an appointment. However, you should check local signage for closing times, as most grounds are not open 24 hours a day.
Next Steps for Engagement
If you are curious about the location of the nearest temple, the official website for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints maintains a comprehensive list of all operational and announced temples globally. For those looking to understand the theology behind these buildings more deeply, the Church provides digital copies of their foundational manuals and study guides. If you are a member seeking to re-engage with the temple, contact your local bishop to begin the process of obtaining a recommend.
