The Temple

This was a day that we, as parents, had long awaited - going to the temple with our first child. It was a quiet day at the temple and we felt so at peace.

For those of you who are not familiar with the temple, I would like to offer a bit of insight. Prior to going on a mission, a young man or woman goes to the temple to take part in special ordinances. These are ordinances much like baptism and confirmation. The temple we are closest to is the Washington, DC Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is one of nearly 200 temples throughout the world. Temples differ from regular Church houses of worship. They are unique in purpose and like temples of old, are not used for regular worship, but for special purposes. They are set apart from the world in their holiness and peace.

For the most part, temples are all about the eternal nature of man and our earthly and eternal family relationships. As part of God’s eternal family, parents are partners with God in fulfilling His purposes for His children. This makes the family the most important institution on earth and for eternity.

A man and woman who come to the House of the Lord to be married are joined not only by authority of the law of the land until death, but also, through the eternal priesthood of God which binds them for eternity. This is very important to us.

Prior to the dedication of a temple, the Church invites the public to tour the building and enjoy its beauty and serenity. But when it is dedicated it becomes so sacred to us that only members of the Church in good standing enter.

This is to preserve the holiness of the temple and keep it free from the negative influences of the world. We so appreciate the peace we feel when we attend the temple.