How to Enter an LDS Temple: Restrictions and Requirements

Entering an LDS (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) temple requires a specific set of criteria and steps. The process is designed to ensure that only individuals who are spiritually prepared and faithful can partake in the sacred rituals and covenants within these holy spaces.

General Admission and Open Days

Anyone can attend the public tours of an LDS temple during what is known as an open day. This typically occurs before the temple is dedicated or after maintenance work has been done to the temple. During these times, the public is welcomed to explore the temple grounds and learn about the architecture and history of these significant religious facilities.

Restrictions and Recommendations

There are no self-service entry points for the main sections of the temple. Instead, there are strict policies and requirements that must be met before one can enter the main areas. The decision to enter the temple is not made lightly and is carefully regulated to ensure that only those who meet the necessary criteria are granted access.

For those who wish to enter the temple, a Temple Recommend is required. This recommend is given to members who have demonstrated their faithfulness and spiritual readiness. The process of obtaining a Temple Recommend involves a thorough evaluation of the individual's church membership, financial contributions, and overall behavioral integrity.

Requirements for the Temple Recommend

The issues addressed in obtaining a Temple Recommend include:

Baptism and Confirmation: Prospective temple members must first be baptized and confirmed in the LDS church. Honest Tithing: Members must be honest in their tithing payments. Tithing is a principle of faith where members donate 10% of their income to the church. Church Attendance: Regular attendance at church meetings is expected. Members must demonstrate their commitment to the church. Morality and Behavior: Members must uphold the principles of the church and maintain a clean moral character.

Members are also required to undergo an interview process where they are evaluated by a member of the bishopric in their ward and a member of the stake presidency. This evaluation helps to ensure that the individual has met the necessary spiritual standards.

Preparation for Temple Attendance

For new members who are eager to enter the temple, there is often a Temple Prep Class. This class provides comprehensive training about the temple and its covenants. It helps new members understand the significance of the temple rituals and prepares them for the sacred experiences they will have within its walls.

Public Tours and Open Houses

During the period known as the open house, non-members can tour the temple freely. The open house is a time when a new temple is built or renovated and before its official dedication. It allows the community to celebrate and learn about the church's architectural and cultural heritage.

After the temple is dedicated, only members with a valid Temple Recommend can enter the main sections of the temple. Those who do not have a recommend will be politely guided to wait outside in the temple grounds or allowed to freely explore the grounds but not the inner sanctum of the temple.

Conclusion

The process of entering an LDS temple is deliberate and systematic. It is designed to ensure that only those who are spiritually prepared are able to participate in the sacred rituals and covenants within these buildings. For those interested in attending, understanding the requirements and restrictions is essential to the process.