I recently saw some photographs of the Kirtland Temple located in Independence, MO. In the temple are various pulpits for the Aaronic and Melchesidek priests. On these pulpits are letters or initials in gold. I tried to locate the meaning of these lrtters on the pulpits, but with no success. Could you please explain what these pulpits were for and what significance the letters on these pulpits had. Thanks,

Wayne B., from California

Dear Wayne B.,

In the first place, the Kirtland Temple is in Kirtland, Ohio, not Independence, Missouri. The four tiers of pulpits on the east side of the assembly room on the main floor are for the Melchizedek priesthood presidencies, and those on the west for the Aaronic priesthood presidencies. The initials on the pulpits, beginning with the lowest tier, are as follows:

Facing east–

“P.E.Q.” (Presidency of Elders Quorum).

“P.H.P.Q.” (Presidency of High Priests Quorum)

“P.S.Z.” (Presidents of Seventy). Perhaps the Z was meant to be a Q for “Quorum.”

“P.M.P.H.” (Presidency of Melchizedek High Priests).

Facing west–

“P.D.Q.” (Presidency of Deacons Quorum)

“P.T.Q.” (Presidency of Teachers Quorum).

“P.P.Q.” (Presidency of Priests Quorum).

“P. A. P.” (Presidency of Aaronic Priesthood).

Gramps

I have been reading a book of Temple Manifestations. There is a section relating to baptism in the Temples. A phrase was used of baptism and confirmation for the healing of the sick. It describes how endowed members would go to the Temple and be “baptized and confirmed” and would leave healed. It also quotes that baptism for the dead and healing must be done in the Temple font. I never heard of baptism and confirmation in the Temples for the living. Have you heard of it? Where in the scriptures is this located? I would appreciate any information on this issue you could provide. Thank you,

Linda, from New Jersey

Dear Linda,

I don’t have any idea what kind of a book you have been reading. Certainly many people have been healed of their illnesses when they were baptized. It is true that baptisms for the dead must be performed in the holy temples. It may also be true that some people have been miraculously healed while performing proxy baptisms. But such things, being as sacred at they are, are generally not publicized.

Gramps

My wife and I have been married for 3 years. We have both been married before. I had a Temple Marriage but she has never been to the temple. She has been treated very poorly buy a couple of bishops in the past and has had a very difficult time getting over it.

I have two questions. One, she has studied “The Course in Miracles” for the last 8 years and is very involved in its philosophy. What I have studied of “The Course” I find that it really shows someone how to live a spiritual life and emphases “living in the spirit,” which I have no problem with. The short falls are that it is a very individual thing and there are no ordinances attached etc. Are you familiar with ACIM and what is your opinion?

My second question is concerning the temple. We attended a wedding this last week of which I was able to witness the Temple Sealing of my wife’s nephew but my wife had to wait outside. During the sealing ceremony it was very obvious that her deceased father was present. Without going into a lot of details, I told her of the experience and from that came an openness from her to consider preparation of attending the temple. She was very close with her father and he was very active in temple work etc. She said she would be very willing to read anything there is available on the temple and its necessity. I would like to find something that is scriptural based and not filled with a lot of “Mormon clich‚s.” What can you recommend? She did ask about the Savior being married and if he was, was he married in “The Temple?” What do I tell her?

Flavio, from California

Dear Flavio,

I am not familiar with ACIM. My opinion is that although there are many good books and many good churches that teach people about God, about themselves and about how to get along with others, none of them has any power whatsoever to provide the means of salvation in the Kingdom of God for anyone. Becoming involved in any of those good things, after knowing the truth and after making covenant by baptism to take upon ourselves the name of Jesus Christ, to obey his commandments, and to remain true and faithful all the days of our lives, never is a valid substitute for fully participating in the Lord’s kingdom on the earth, where only is salvation. Becoming involved in the teachings and practices of those man-made organizations provides a real danger of leading one away into other philosophies and teachings, which always ends in apostasy if followed long enough.

Let your wife learn about the temple by attending temple preparation classes, obeying the principles of the gospel and being faithful in all her duties. As you and she gain the influence of the Holy Spirit you will be able to understand the spiritual meaning of the instructions so they will not appear to you as clich‚s, but you will see them for what they really are, and you will begin to perceive the deep meaning associated with the teachings about the temple.

The Prophets have revealed to us that indeed Christ was married. Celestial marriage is a requirement for exaltation. If he who knew no sin was baptized to fulfill all righteousness, would he not have received all the other ordinances required for exaltation? Just where those ordinances took place has not been revealed to us.

Gramps

GM

Dear GM,

The pulpits in the Assembly room of the Salt Lake Temple are the same in number and purpose as those in the Kirtland Temple though not of the same design as those in the Kirtland and Nauvoo Temples.  Those in the Kirtland Temple had initials imprinted on them designating who was to sit there.  The First Presidency, the Twelve Apostles, High Priests, Presidency Elders, Presiding Bishopric, Presidency Aaronic Priests, Presidency Aaronic Teachers and  Presidency Aaronic Deacons.  These designations are the same for those in the Salt Lake Temple.  A few of the other temples have assembly rooms in them,  including the Washington D.C. Temple.

The assembly room in the Salt Lake Temple is used for various meetings.  Solemn assemblies which have been called as the Lord has revealed or as His spirit has indicated are held in this room.  Those who attend are invited by the First Presidency.  Normally these meetings are for Priesthood and Auxiliary Leaders.  There are rooms in the Salt Lake Temple where the First Presidency meet, where the Quorum of the Twelve meet, and where the Presidency of the Seventy meet.  When determined by the First Presidency, all of the General Authorities will meet in the assembly room to receive instruction.

Before the Missionary Training Center in Provo was built, missionaries would spend a week at the Mission Home located across the street from Temple Square prior to leaving for the mission field.   While there they had the privilege of meeting in the Salt Lake Temple Assembly room where a member of the First Presidency, Quorum of the Twelve or Temple Presidency would speak to them.  When I left on my mission, Elder Christiansen who was an Assistant to the Twelve and President of the Salt Lake Temple spoke to us in the Assembly room and answered questions.  Elder Bednar of the Quorum of Twelve,  indicated that it was President Lee who spoke to them in the Assembly room prior to his departure into the mission field.

President Hinckley stated in conference:  “While preparing the ordinances for use in more modern temples, I have spent hours and days working in the magnificent fifth-floor Assembly Room of the Salt Lake Temple.”  He went on to describe how beautiful the room is and that nothing was spared to make the Temple a worthy House of the Lord.

President Woodruff dedicated the Salt Lake Temple from the Assembly Room.  The following is his description of this wonderful event.  “The Heavenly Host were in attendance at the [first] dedication [service].  If the eyes of the congregation could be opened they would [have] seen Joseph and Hyrum [Smith], Brigham Young, John Taylor and all the good men who had lived in this dispensation assembled with us, as also Esaias, Jeremiah, and all the Holy Prophets and Apostles who had prophesied of the latter day work. … They were rejoicing with us in this building which had been accepted of the Lord and [when] the [Hosanna] shout had reached the throne of the Almighty,”they too had joined in the joyous shout.”

Gramps

My husband and I disagree about whether or not people who
live/have lived on the earth but have not accepted, or heard of, the
gospel and made eternal covenants can attain the celestial kingdom. I
believe that everyone will have an equal opportunity to hear the
Savior’s plan, make covenants, be sealed and attain all of the
celestial glory available. If not, God would not be fair and
missionary work beyond the veil would be limited and make no sense.
My husband believes, and supports in D&C 132, that only those who
join the church and are sealed in this life have any chance of
celestial glory. Those who do not join ‘the church’ and get sealed in
this life are, and forever will be, less than the members of the
church upon the earth.
Please answer with lots of doctrinal references from church leaders
and scriptures.
thank you,

Colleen

Dear Colleen,

Not only will individuals have the opportunity to accept the Gospel and repent of their sins while living here on this earth, but also in the spirit world.  Prior to His resurrection, Christ went to the spirit world and according to the Prophet Joseph Smith,  organized the missionary effort there.  Through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ he bridged the gap between those in spirit prison and those in paradise.  In 1 Peter 3, Peter tells us:  “19 .By which also he (Christ) went and preached unto the spirits in prison; 20 Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah.”   Why would the Gospel be preached to those in spirit prison if they were unable to repent and accept the Gospel?  The Prophet Joseph Smith stated: “The Savior indicated that all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven men wherewith they shall blaspheme; but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven, neither in this world, nor in the world to come, evidently showing that there are sins which may be forgiven in the world to come.” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith)   Further Peter explains why Christ went to the spirit world:  “For for this cause was the gospel preached also to 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)

President Joseph Fielding Smith in Doctrines of Salvation 2:134  stated:  “Knowing  of the love the Father has for his children, we may rightfully conclude that the Father has arranged the plan of salvation so that all his children may have the fullest opportunity of salvation.  How is this opportunity coming to them?  We know that millions of people have died without knowledge of the gospel, or of the name of Christ our Redeemer.  Millions are now living who have never heard.  Notwithstanding all the efforts that we can put forth to preach the truth, millions will die without hearing, much less receiving it.  It would be foolish on our part to think that the Lord would condemn all these to eternal damnation without the privilege of a hearing.  Such a thing would not be just; it would not be merciful; it would not be godlike.  Yet, has not the Lord said that no man may enter his kingdom except he be born again, and that only those may enter who accept his laws and endure to the end?”

The ordinances of baptism, confirmation, ordination to the Priesthood, endowment, and sealing belong to this world.  Just as it states in D&C 132, these ordinances have to be performed in the Temples here upon this earth.  This is the reason we perform these ordinances in the Temple for our dead.  Those who have died can accept the Gospel in the Spirit World, but are unable to receive the necessary ordinances there.  President Joseph Fielding Smith stated:  “Temple work is for the purpose of giving to every man and to every woman the blessings of the higher ordinances of the gospel that are essential to salvation in the kingdom of God.  There is not an ordinance performed in the temple that does not pertain to this mortal life.  When we go into the temple and act for somebody else, we are treating that person as though we were that person living here, doing for him just what he would have to do if he were in mortal life.”

Everyone will have the opportunity to accept Jesus as the Christ and His gospel.  This will occur while living on this earth or in the Spirit World.  Those who have passed away will be able to accept the ordinances performed for them in the Temples here on this earth.  Once these ordinances are sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise, they will be binding, just as those who accept Jesus, His gospel and received the necessary ordinances while living here on this earth.

Gramps

I would like to learn more about The Thousand-Year Reign and
what will happen during that time.
I understand that we will see our ancestors and will be able to bring
our family records up to date.
Will there still be Temple work going on? What will be the function
of the Temples during this time.
What other things will take place during this time?
I read some where during this time that a person will be able to go
back in time and view history taking place.

Paul

Dear Paul,

In a revelation given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in January of 1831, recorded in D&C 38, the Lord stated:  “11 For all flesh is corrupted before me; and the powers of darkness prevail upon the earth, among the children of men, in the presence of all the hosts of heaven—  12 Which causeth silence to reign, and all eternity is pained, and the angels are waiting the great command to reap down the earth, to gather the tares that they may be burned; and, behold, the enemy is combined.”  As each of us are aware, wickedness is more prevalent today than in 1831, which would indicate that the end is near.  The Lord revealed to Joseph that, “…and by this ye may know that the great and dreadful day of the Lord is near, even at the door.”

In the 10th Article of Faith, we are told that:   “… that Zion (the New Jerusalem) will be built upon the American continent; that Christ will reign personally upon the earth; and, that the earth will be renewed and receive its paradisiacal glory.”  The earth will become terrestrial and Christ will rule personally.  Those that are in spirit prison will remain there during the thousand years,  (See D&C 88:100-102) and Satan will be bound and unable to tempt man during this period of time.

Several important works will be accomplished during the Millennium.  The Gospel will be taught with greater intensity and power to all the inhabitants on the earth until all those who remain are converted and confess that Jesus is the Christ.  Brigham Young stated that:  “In the Millennium men will have the privilege of their own belief, but they will not have the privilege of treating the name and character of Deity as they have done heretofore.  No, but every knee shall bow and every tongue confess to the glory of God the Father that Jesus is the Christ.”  Isaiah tells us that:  “…for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord , as the waters cover the sea.”(Isaiah 11: 9)  And Jeremiah indicates that:  “And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord; for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord…”

Temple work will continue during the Millennium for all those whose ordinances have not been performed previously.  In Doctrines of Salvation volume 3, page 58 Joseph Fielding Smith states:  However, there shall be mortality upon the face of the earth during the thousand years, because of the great work that is to be accomplished of salvation for the dead.  During that thousand years of peace the great work of the Lord shall be in the temples, and into those temples the people shall go to labor for those who have passed beyond and and who are waiting to have these ordinances which pertain to their salvation performed for them by those who still dwell in mortality upon the earth.  And so there shall be mortal men, but they shall live from the time of birth until they are 100 years old and shall then be changed suddenly.  Men will have power over disease, and their bodies will become vigorous and strong, for it will be a new creation of all things when Christ shall come.”

During the Millennium, deceased children will have the opportunity to choose mates.  Continuing in Doctrines of Salvation pages 65-66, Joseph Fielding Smith states:  “The Lord has said through his servants that during the Millennium those who have passed beyond and have attained the resurrection will reveal in person to those who are still in mortality all the information which is required to complete the work of these who have passed from this life  Then the dead will have the privilege of making known the things they desire, and are entitled to receive.  In this way no soul will be neglected and the work of the Lord will be perfected.   It is the duty of parents who have children who have died and who were old enough to be endowed, to go to the temple and perform this endowment for them.  When you have done this, you may let the matter of further work rest, except the sealing of these children to their parents, until the proper time comes.”

The scriptures speak of the Lord’s coming to usher in the Millennium as “the great and dreadful day of the Lord”.  To the wicked it will be dreadful, but to the righteous it will be great and glorious for Christ will reign personally, peace will prevail and no wickedness will be found.

Gramps

What is LDS Church policy regarding civil unions?

Garth

Garth,

When you refer to “civil unions”, I am assuming you mean civil marriages between a man and a woman that has been performed by an individual authorized by the local government.  The Church recognizes these marriages as binding.  They are honorable unions and there is no sin involved in these marriages.

We have always been counseled to obey the laws of the land, even when governments have not protected the rights of our members.  The 12th Article of Faith states:  “We believe in being subject to kings, presidents, rulers, and magistrates, in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law.”  Doctrine and Covenants section 134 is a statement regarding governments and laws in general.  This statement was adopted by the Church in August 1835 by a unanimous vote.

Governments in some countries have not given our Priesthood Leaders authority to perform marriages.  In these cases, the couple must be be married civilly prior to being sealed in the Temple.  This is especially true when the couple is being sealed in a Temple that is not located within the country they reside.  The Church supports the governments rulings in these cases as well and will not perform the sealing until the couple is legally married.

Because these marriages are performed under civil law, they are only binding for the duration of the couple’s life here on this earth.  Members who have been married civilly will be strongly encouraged to be sealed in the Temple so that there union is both for time and eternity.

Gramps

Can you please tell me what happens to the money that results from
tithing in the UK? Is it kept in the UK in whole or in part to be used
by the Church for UK expenditure?

Thank you

David

Dear David,

All tithing donations are to be transmitted directly to Church Headquarters.  The Council on the Disposition of the Tithes, composed of the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve and the Presiding Bishopric, have been given the responsibility to determine how these sacred funds are to be disbursed.  This council makes these decisions as they are inspired to do so by the Lord.  The Lord instructed Joseph Smith on this in D&C 120:   1″Verily, thus saith the Lord, the time is now come, that it shall be disposed of by a council, composed of the First Presidency of my Church, and of the bishop and his council, and by my high council; and by mine own voice unto them, saith the Lord. Even so. Amen.”

Tithing funds are always used for the Lord’s purposes—to build and maintain temples and meetinghouses, to sustain missionary work,  to educate Church members, and to carry on the work of the Lord throughout the world.  These funds are sacred and care is given as to how they are expended.  In April Conference each year there is a report from the Church Auditing Department verifying that after receiving the Council’s authorization, Church departments have expended funds consistent with approved budgets and in accordance with Church policies and procedures.

In some areas/countries of the world, tithing funds collected within that area, are not sufficient to cover all the expenditures authorized by the Council for that area.  The actual funds collected may remain in that area to cover authorized expenditures.  In areas where there is a shortage, funds would be transmitted from Church Headquarters.  The Church does not report on where tithing collected does not cover authorized expenditures so it would be impossible to determine the situation in the  United Kingdom.  It takes a large amount of funds to maintain Temples, Churches and other buildings located there, as well as funding missionary and other Church programs.

The important thing to remember is that the expenditure of tithing funds are carefully watched and controlled.  Anyone having been in leadership positions is well aware of this.   Great blessings have been promised to those who pay their tithing faithfully.  Many testimonies have been given where the windows of heaven have been opened and blessings poured out to the faithful tithe payers.

Gramps

I have grown up being taught that we can progress only if we
make it to the Celestial Kingdom. As an adult I have heard other
people say that we can progress from the Telestial Kingdom to the
Terrestrial Kingdom and so on.

Gerald

Dear Gerald,

There is a vast difference between progression and “Eternal Progression”.   “Eternal Progression” denotes God’s progression or way.    The Lord told Enoch in Moses 7 of the Pearl of Great Price, that one of His names is “Eternal”.  Those and only those who inherit the highest degree in the Celestial Kingdom will be blessed with “Eternal Progression” meaning there will be no limit or end to their progression.  The progression of all those who do not inherit the highest degree in the Celestial Kingdom will end as there are limits set to their progression.  This doctrine was revealed to the Prophet Joseph Smith and recorded in the Doctrine & Covenants, section 131:  1 ” In the celestial glory there are three heavens or degrees;  2 And in order to obtain the highest, a man must enter into this order of the priesthood [meaning the new and everlasting covenant of marriage];  3 And if he does not, he cannot obtain it.  4 He may enter into the other, but that is the end of his kingdom; he cannot have an increase.”   Those who do not inherit the highest degree will not have the opportunity to become Gods, but rather they will become angels of God forever.  This is recorded in the D&C 132:   17 “For these angels did not abide my law; therefore, they cannot be enlarged, but remain separately and singly, without exaltation, in their saved condition, to all eternity; and from henceforth are not gods, but are angels of God forever and ever.”

Only those who enter into the new and everlasting covenant of marriage while in this life (meaning until one is resurrected) and are sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise, will be worthy of this great blessing.  This  saving ordinance is performed vicariously in the Temple for those who did not have the opportunity while here upon the earth.  In section 132 it states:  16 “Therefore, when they are out of the world they neither marry nor are given in marriage; but are appointed angels in heaven, which angels are ministering servants, to minister for those who are worthy of a far more, and an exceeding, and an eternal weight of glory.”

Only those baptized by one holding the Priesthood of God will be able to inherit any degree within the Celestial Kingdom.  The baptismal ordinance also needs to be received during this life(as defined above).   The progression of those who have not been baptized will be further limited as they will not be able to progress into the Celestial Kingdom.

Gramps

Will we wear garments in the Celestial kingdom?

Sue

Dear Sue,

Yes we will wear garments in the Kingdom of God.  The question whether they will be as the temple garments we wear today is not known.  We read in Alma 5:  “24 Behold, my brethren, do ye suppose that such an one can have a place to sit down in the kingdom of God, with ^aAbraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob, and also all the holy prophets, whose garments are cleansed and are spotless, pure and white? “  Here Alma tells us that in order to sit down in the kingdom of God, we need to have our garments cleansed through the atoning sacrifice of our Savior, our own repentance and righteousness.

When the angel Moroni visited the Prophet Joseph Smith, the prophet described his appearance and what he was wearing.  This is found in Joseph Smith–History, verse 31: “He had on a loose robe of most exquisite whiteness. It was a whiteness beyond anything earthly I had ever seen; nor do I believe that any earthly thing could be made to appear so exceedingly white and brilliant. His hands were naked, and his arms also, a little above the wrist; so, also, were his feet naked, as were his legs, a little above the ankles. His head and neck were also bare. I could discover that he had no other clothing on but this robe, as it was open, so that I could see into his bosom.”  It is apparent that Moroni was not wearing garments as we know them, but often robes and garments are synonymous.  Another scriptural reference is D & C 20:6  ” But after ^arepenting, and humbling himself sincerely, through faith, God ministered unto him by an holy ^bangel, whose ^ccountenance was as lightning, and whose garments were pure and white above all other whiteness.”

Elder Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve wrote an excellent article entitled, “Personal Preparation for Temple Blessings.”  It appeared in the July 2001 Liahona.  In it he states:   “Wearing the temple garment has deep symbolic significance. It represents a continuing commitment.  Just as the Savior exemplified the need to endure to the end, we wear the garment faithfully as part of the enduring armor of God.   Thus we demonstrate our faith in Him and in His eternal covenants with us.”   The Temple garment  serves three important purposes: it is a reminder of the sacred covenants made with the Lord in His holy house, a protective covering for the body, and a symbol of the modesty of dress and living that should characterize the lives of all the humble followers of Christ.  I am sure that we will continue to wear some type of garment that will identify us with the Lord and the covenants we have made and will make with Him.

Gramps

I have read a lot of your advice on your website and I really respect your opinions and trust your knowledge of the Church; that is why I am contacting you today. I was baptized into the LDS church on October 20th 2007, and on November 7th 2008 I went to the temple for my own endowments. Before I went to the temple I felt that I had a good testimony of this church, but after going to the temple I feel as if my whole world has come crashing down. The temple was not at all what I thought it would be. I knew that it would be different and that there would be a lot of symbolism used, but I don’t think that there was any way I could have been prepared for what I experienced that day. It was a very scary experience for me; I felt like I was doing something wrong…it almost felt Satanic to me. I know that when many people go to the temple for the first time it is a little different and they don’t really understand it, but in my case I was downright frightened. I don’t know if this is because I wasn’t raised in the Church and therefore wasn’t exposed to enough to prepare me for the temple, or what. I went in expecting something so beautiful and peaceful and I expected to feel close to my Father…but instead all I felt was fear. I guess it was everything about the temple; the clothing, the covenants, the symbols, just everything. It really scared me and I felt like it was wrong.

Before I went to the temple everyone kept telling me how wonderful it would be and how you feel the Spirit so much while you are there, and I was so looking forward to it. I must say that the Sealing the next day was much much better; I actually did feel the Spirit that day and it was just fine. But the endowment session the night before really shook my faith in this church; it didn’t seem to have anything to do with the church at all…it felt like it had no connection to the Church or God or Christ or anything. I know I am rambling, but I guess I’m just trying to get you to understand how confused I am. My testimony has really suffered because of this experience. I told my bishop that my experience at the temple was scary and that I never wanted to go back again.  He is a very good bishop and I know it was disappointing to him to hear me say that. I was hoping he would help me but when I told him he just kind of stared at me blankly and then told me to pray about it. That was it.

Ever since I went through the temple I have been doubting the entire church and more and more things keep popping up that make me doubt the church. I don’t know what has happened to me; just three months ago I was so excited to go to the temple and I loved the church and belived in it. And now today I am contemplating leaving the church.

I know you are a very intelligent person and that you have a really good understanding of the Church.  I’m hoping that you will have some words of comfort or reassurance for me about the temple. I’m also hoping you might have some advice for me on how I can get past this. I would love to be able to feel the way I did before about the Church, but I am just so confused I really don’t know what to do anymore. Please help me.

Sincerely,

Megan

Dear Megan,

I am truly sorry that you had a negative experience when you attended the Temple for the first time.  Due to the sacredness of what goes on in the Temple, we are unable to discuss in detail what transpires there and why.  It is through study, prayer and Temple attendance that we come to fully understand our Temple experience.  President Benson, in his later years,  stated that he continued to learn new things about the Temple.  I promise you that if you continue to attend the Temple worthily, with an open heart, you will come to love the experience of serving and being in the Temple.  It is a place of personal revelation and peace.

I would encourage you to remember the wonderful blessings you were promised when you received your endowments as well as those promised to you when you were sealed to your husband.  These are truly great blessings that our Father in Heaven promises to us.  Brigham Young gave us the following definition of the endowment:  “Let me give you a definition in brief. Your endowment is, to receive all those ordinances in the House of the Lord, which are necessary for you, after you have departed this life, to enable you to walk back to the presence of the Father, passing the angels who stand as sentinels, being able to give them the key words, the signs and tokens, pertaining to the holy Priesthood, and gain your eternal exaltation in spite of earth and hell. ” (Discourses of Brigham Young, comp. John A. Widtsoe [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1971], page 416.)

No other blessing rival those that we receive in the Temple, the house of our Lord.

Next I would suggest that you read and study all that you can concerning the Temple and the ordinances we receive there.  The following is excerpts from an article that has appeared in many lesson manuals of the Church and in Church Magazines.  It was written by Elder Elray L. Christiansen, who served as President of the Salt Lake Temple as well as a General Authority.  You can read the full article here.

Most of what Latter-day Saints learn about the temple is learned in the temple itself. However, there are some things that the First Presidency feels you ought to be aware of so that you will be properly oriented and receive adequate understanding from your temple experience.

Before a person can be married (or sealed as husband and wife) in the temple, he or she receives the ordinances of the endowment.

As you receive your endowment, you will be given instruction relative to the purposes and plans of the Lord in creating and peopling the earth and in exalting his children in the life to come.

Elder James E. Talmage, formerly of the Council of the Twelve, has given a clear description of the endowment:

“The Temple Endowment, as administered in modern temples, comprises instruction relating to the significance and sequence of past dispensations, and the importance of the present as the greatest and grandest era in human history. This course of instruction includes a recital of the most prominent events of the creative period, the condition of our first parents in the Garden of Eden, their disobedience and consequent expulsion from that blissful abode, their condition in the lone and dreary world when doomed to live by labor and sweat, the plan of redemption by which the great transgression may be atoned, the period of the great apostasy, the restoration of the Gospel with all its ancient powers and privileges, the absolute and indispensable condition of personal purity and devotion to the right in present life, and a strict compliance with Gospel requirements. …

“The ordinances of the endowment embody certain obligations on the part of the individual, such as covenant and promise to observe the law of strict virtue and chastity, to be charitable, benevolent, tolerant and pure; to devote both talent and material means to the spread of truth and the uplifting of the race; to maintain devotion to the cause of truth; and to seek in every way to contribute to the great preparation that the earth may be made ready to receive her King,—the Lord Jesus Christ. With the taking of each covenant and the assuming of each obligation a promised blessing is pronounced, contingent upon the faithful observance of the conditions.

“No jot, iota, or tittle of the temple rites is otherwise than uplifting and sanctifying. In every detail the endowment ceremony contributes to covenants of morality of life, consecration of person to high ideals, devotion to truth, patriotism to nation, and allegiance to God.” (The House of the Lord [Deseret Book Co., 1968], pp. 83–84.)

To endow is to enrich, to give to another something long-lasting and of much worth. The endowment ordinances enrich in three ways:  1. The one receiving the ordinance is given power from God. “Recipients are endowed with power from on High.”  2. A recipient is also endowed with information and knowledge. “They receive knowledge relative to the Lord’s purposes and plans. …”3. When sealed at the altar, a person is the recipient of glorious blessings, powers, and honors, as part of his endowment.

The endowment is a most important and significant blessing, and the Lord desires his worthy children to receive it. You should all look forward to the day when you will receive your own endowment.

The ordinances of the temple are so sacred that they are not open to the view of the public. They are available only to those who qualify through righteous living. They are performed in places dedicated especially for this purpose. Their sacred nature is such that discussion in detail outside the temple is inappropriate.

Many blessings come to those who receive and respect these sacred ordinances, which are so necessary for exaltation. Participation in temple work provides dynamic, vivid, useful instruction in gospel principles, and the temple is a place for contemplation and prayer.

The temple is a sanctuary from the world, a bit of heaven on earth, and one should continue to live worthily so that he can go to the temple often and renew his covenants.
ElRay L. Christiansen, “Some Things You Need to Know about the Temple,” New Era, Jun 1971, 25.

In addition to this article there are two books that are very helpful in understanding Temples and what transpires there.  The first is “The House of the Lord”, by Elder James E. Talmage.  This is the book Elder Christiansen quoted from in the above article.  The other is “The Holy Temple” by President Boyd K. Packer.  If you continue to have questions you might also ask a member of the Temple Presidency to help you understand the next time you attend the Temple.  As you study and attend the Temple you will feel His spirit, which will be very comforting.

Gramps

Being a member of the lds church and never have had a temple
recommend-what type of attire should i be buried in?

Barbara

Dear Barbara,

I would recommend that whatever is traditional for your society would be best.  Also you should consider what you look best in or if you have a favorite outfit.  Living in an area of a high concentration of members of the Church, the only thing that bothers me is when men who are unendowed are buried in black suits.  This is just a personal preference though.

What I would really recommend is for you to become worthy to receive your endowments.  I would suggest you meet with your Bishop and together develop a plan for you to follow so that you can attend the Temple.  As you gain a stronger testimony of the Gospel you will develop a desire to receive your endowments.  Then you would be buried in your Temple clothing.

Gramps

I know we are not supposed to get a tattoo. Know I think of
new members, or members who returne to be active of The Church, and do
have a tattoo. Is it possible to go to the tempel, worthy in every
way, except for the tattoo ?

Gerda

Dear Gerda,

When one applies to serve a mission, you are asked if you have  tattoo or not.  If the applicant has a tattoo, his application will be reviewed by a General Authority.  Some who have tattoos will be able to serve, but some will not be able to serve.  The following statement comes from the Liahona March 2006.  “For some missionaries, having a tattoo means being assigned to serve in a place where their tattoo is either culturally accepted or to a colder climate where long sleeves, and tights for women, will cover their tattoos. A tattoo can limit not only where you can serve, but, depending on its content and your feelings about it, it could also determine whether you can serve at all.”

Members are discouraged from getting a tattoo because we have been told that our body is a temple and should not be defiled in any way.  Having a tattoo will not keep someone from being baptized into the Church or returning to full activity.  Members with tattoo’s will also be able to receive a Temple recommend if they are worthy in every way.

Gramps

My husband and his 1st wife were converts to the LDS church,
but never sealed in the temple.  I am not a member, but interested in
learning and perhaps joining.  Half of our 10 children are members.  I
am divorced from an abusive husband.  Randy and & have been married
for 25 years.  He is the father of all my children  We had our
previous marriages annulled through the Catholic Church and our
marriage was convalidated in the Catholic Church.  What would have to
happen for us to be able to be sealed to each other and our children
if we joined the LDS Church?

Gwyneth

Dear Gwyneth,

The first step would be for you to become a member of the LDS Church.  The full time missionaries assigned to your area would be happy to teach you the Gospel.  Your Bishop would be of service in arranging this.

Only worthy members of the Church are able to attend the Temple and participate in the ordinances performed there.  There you and your husband would be sealed together for time and all eternity.  Your member children who are worthy could also be sealed to you.

In order for you to attend the Temple, you need to be a member for at least one year, be worthy and have an interview with your Priesthood Leaders.

Your Bishop will be able to help you through this process.

Gramps

I read the question asked about the inscription on
our temples “House of the Lord, Holiness to the Lord” and it seems
like I have heard this several times, that President Lorenzo Snow told
one of his grandaughters, about a place in the Salt Lake Temple where
Jesus Christ appeared to him?? Have you heard of this? Thanks L KRemin

Laurie

Dear Laurie,

The story you are referring to of President Snow’s vision was related by Susan Arrington Madsen and appeared in the Friend, Aug 1993 on page 14.  It was adapted from “The Lord Needed a Prophet”  page 83-83 by Susan Arrington Madsen.

This is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives! (D&C 76:22).

Lorenzo Snow was still at work in his office in the Salt Lake Temple. It was dark outside, and the stars had come out. He was the fifth President of the Church, but he was also serving as the first president of the Salt Lake Temple at the time. He often stayed late into the evening to finish his work.

President Snow’s granddaughter Allie Young loved to visit him at his office. In those days, family members of the temple president were allowed to visit him there. They were not allowed to go through the entire temple, however, until they were old enough and had been found worthy and ready to make the sacred temple covenants.

This special evening Allie was with her grandfather in his office. The doorkeepers had gone home and the night watchmen had not yet come in, so they were alone. When Allie was ready to leave, President Snow went to a dresser and took a large bunch of keys from the drawer so that he could let her out the main entrance. Together they walked down a large corridor near the celestial room.

President Snow suddenly stopped and said, “Wait a moment, Allie. I want to tell you something.” Allie listened intently as her grandfather told her of an unforgettable experience he had once had at that place in the temple: “It was right here that the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to me at the time of the death of President Woodruff. He instructed me to go right ahead and reorganize the First Presidency of the Church at once and not wait as had been done after the death of the previous presidents, and that I was to succeed President Woodruff [as President of the Church].”

President Snow held out his left hand and said, “He stood right here, about three feet above the floor. It looked as though he stood on a plate of solid gold.”

Still speaking in hushed, reverent tones, President Snow told Allie that the Savior’s appearance was so glorious and bright that he could hardly look at Him.

President Snow put his right hand on Allie’s head and said, “Now granddaughter, I want you to remember that this is the testimony of your grandfather, that he told you with his own lips that he actually saw the Savior, here in the temple, and talked with him face to face.”

Allie listened to every word of this sacred experience and never forgot that precious moment but shared it many times later in her life with her family and friends.

I assume the author is related to Allie in some way.

Gramps

Message: Why is the inscription “The House of the Lord” etched into
each temple?  I have heard that the Savior personally inspects and
accepts each temple.  Is that correct?

Loren

Dear Loren,

The following is an excerpt from the First Presidency Message, written by President Gordon B. Hinckley, in the March 1993 Ensign.

“This is a temple of God. The entablature on its face declares “Holiness to the Lord—The House of the Lord.” The first phrase of this statement is a declared recognition of the Almighty and a pledge of holiness and reverence before Him. The second is a statement of ownership. This is His house, built through the consecrations of the people and presented to Him as their offering of love and sacrifice.”

Each Temple is dedicated to the Lord.  The dedication of the Kirtland Temple is recorded in D&C 109.  I have included two verses here that is pertinent to your question.

5 For thou knowest that we have done this work through great tribulation; and out of our poverty we have ^agiven of our substance to build a ^bhouse to thy name, that the Son of Man might have a place to ^cmanifest himself to his people. And,  16 And that this house may be a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of glory and of God, even thy house;

In D&C 110 the Lord appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdredy and accepted the Kirtland Temple as His house.

1 The ^aveil was taken from our minds, and the ^beyes of our ^cunderstanding were opened.

2 We ^asaw the Lord ^bstanding upon the breastwork of the pulpit, before us; and under his feet was a paved work of pure ^cgold, in color like amber.

What are the meanings of symbols or images of the Mormon Church?

Baby Marz, from Maasin City, Southern Leyte, Philippines

Dear Baby Marz,

Each symbol has its own meaning, and some symbols may have several meanings depending on how and where they are used. Take for instance the ordinance of baptism. Baptism is performed in the Mormon Church by immersion for the remission of sins It is performed by one having priesthood authority. The immersion process is fraught with symbolism. The person being baptized is placed under the water, representing the burial of the worldly person. Being raised from the water represents the birth of the new person, devoid of all sin. Being placed under the water and coming forth out of the water also represents the burial and resurrection of the Savior, through whose great atoning sacrifice the forgiveness of sins is made possible. Those who are being baptized dress in white clothing, which represents purity.

One could find symbolic meanings in all the ordinances of the gospel. Symbolic meanings also are associated with signs and symbols designed into the architecture of the temples of the Church. In fact, you may be interested in acquiring a book entitled Celestial Symbols, Symbolism in Doctrine, Religious Traditions and Temple Architecture

29 And as I wondered, my eyes were opened, and my understanding quickened, and I perceived that the Lord went not in person among the wicked and the disobedient who had rejected the truth, to teach them;

30 But behold, from among the righteous, he organized his forces and appointed messengers, clothed with power and authority, and commissioned them to go forth and carry the light of the gospel to them that were in darkness, even to all the spirits of men; and thus was the gospel preached to the dead.

So, in the post-mortal spirit world the gospel is preached to ALL the dead.

31 And the chosen messengers went forth to declare the acceptable day of the Lord and proclaim liberty to the captives who were bound, even unto all who would repent of their sins and receive the gospel.

So it is possible to repent in the post-mortal spirit world of sins committed while in the flesh–

32 Thus was the gospel preached to those who had died in their sins, without a knowledge of the truth, or in transgression, having rejected the prophets.

–including those who rejected the gospel while on earth.

33 These were taught faith in God, repentance from sin, vicarious baptism for the remission of sins, the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands,

34 And all other principles of the gospel that were necessary for them to know in order to qualify themselves that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit (D&C  138:29-34)

Thus, if the post-mortal spirits, when hearing the gospel preached to them, have the necessary repentant change of heart into faithful, believing servants of the Lord Jesus Christ, they may qualify themselves for entrance into the celestial kingdom.
So apparently there is the opportunity to repent and work the works of righteousness up until the time of the resurrection. Then in the final judgement those who at that time are worthy of a celestial glory will be resurrected with a celestial body and will inhabit the celestial kingdom. Those who reject the Savior but live according to the principles of the law of Moses will be resurrected with a terrestrial body and will inherit a terrestrial glory. And whose who reject the teachings of the gospel and follow after the dictates of the adversary will be remanded to his custody until the end of the millennium.  They will then be resurrected as telestial beings and will inherit a telestial glory.
So it is appropriate to perform vicarious baptisms for the dead, as well as all the other saving, exalting ordinances of the temple, in the hopes that the recipients will be believing and obedient, and thus qualify themselves for the blessings of God.
Gramps

No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned; By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile–(D&C 121:41-42)

So the priesthood holder in the home has no priesthood authority unless these noble principles of persuasion, long suffering, gentleness, meekness, kindness and sincere love are employed. What does that mean? If there are disagreements, the priesthood authority cannot impose his will. He must attempt to persuade his partner into agreement. If that is not achieved, long suffering comes into play–no arbitrary action is taken. The husband must treat the wife with gentleness, meekness, kindness and sincere love until an agreement can be reached. Now that is the order of the kingdom, and it is more than obvious that it is not understood by the world. But when those principles are put into play the utmost of happiness, joy and contentment ensues. That is the Lord’s plan.
If your fiancee cannot agree to those principles, she is not for you. Your goal is to be sealed to your wife in the holy temple. Then, if you abide by the marriage covenant contracted in the temple, you and your partner will come forth in the morning of the first resurrection, clothed with glory and immortality. You will be raised up to exaltation in the celestial kingdom and receive the highest and most glorious position that God has made available for His obedient children. You will come forth as gods (D&C 76:58-62), with the assignment to rule and reign in the house of Israel forever.
Your fiancee cannot know these things until she accepts the gospel and receives the gift of the Holy Ghost, because these things are known only by the Spirit. Encourage her to listen to the missionary discussions. If touched by the Spirit, she will accept the gospel and all these things will then seem true to her. If she is not willing to follow that path, she is not for you.
Gramps