Understanding Temple Recommends in the Mormon Church: A Comprehensive Guide
Every member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often known informally as the Mormon Church) seeking to enter a temple must obtain a temple recommend. This written certification is essential and lasts for two years, after which the process must be repeated. This guide will delve into the steps and requirements for obtaining a temple recommend, including what it entails and how it functions within the faith.
Prerequisites for Temple Recommends
Before a temple recommend can be issued, a member must meet certain prerequisites. These requirements not only ensure the member's spiritual and moral fitness but also reflect the teachings of the church on works and adherence to commandments.
Baptism Duration
To qualify, a member must have been baptized for at least one year. This requirement emphasizes the importance of sustained commitment to the church's teachings and practices.
Age and Membership Standing
Generally, members must be 18 years old or older. However, there are occasionally exceptions, such as younger members being granted temporary recommends for specific ceremonies like marriages, where children may participate in the temple ceremony.
Active Church Membership
Active participation in church activities is crucial. Members are expected to attend weekly church services, fill callings when asked, and contribute to the community. Consistent unwillingness to fulfill these responsibilities may disqualify a member from receiving a temple recommend.
Financial Commitment
Faithful members are required to pay a full tithe, which is 10% of their income to the church. This financial commitment is part of the guidelines set forth by the church.
Morality and Purity
Members must adhere to the commandments of the Mormon gospel, which include abstinence from tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and tea, as well as prohibitions on extramarital sex, masturbation, and pornography. Sins not in alignment with these principles can disqualify a person from obtaining a temple recommend.
The Interview Process
After meeting these prerequisites, a member must undergo a series of interviews to be granted a temple recommend. The process involves interviews with both the bishop and the stake president.
Interview with the Bishop
The first interview takes place with the bishop, a local leadership position in the church. This interview assesses the member's commitment and preparedness to participate in temple ceremonies. The bishop may question the member about various sins and past behaviors, ensuring a thorough understanding of their faith.
Second Interview with the Stake President
The stake president, who oversees several bishops, conducts the second interview. This level of scrutiny ensures that the recommendation reflects the overall health of the membership.
Granting the Temple Recommend
Once both interviews are satisfactorily completed, a member will receive a temple recommend. This document is important and must be presented whenever entering a Mormon temple. It guarantees entrance to participate in temple ceremonies.
Attending Ceremonies
Members new to receiving a temple recommend may be asked to attend ceremonies with more experienced members, often family members. Experienced members can also attend alone, as long as they have a valid temple recommend.
Checking In at the Temple
Upon entering the temple, an entry examination is conducted. Temple workers check each incoming member to ensure they have a valid and current temple recommend. If someone enters without one, they may be turned away, although there are exceptions for extenuating circumstances.
Renewal and Revocation
Temple recommends are generally valid for two years. However, they can be revoked if a member's behavior makes them unworthy to enter the temple. In such cases, the process must begin anew with the two-stage interview.
Conclusion
The process of obtaining a temple recommend underscores the rigorous standards and deep spiritual commitment required for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This system ensures that only those deemed worthy can partake in the sacred ceremonies of the temple.