For faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a temple is the most sacred place of worship on earth—it is the house of the Lord. It is a place set apart from the rest of the world where members can draw closer to God. Modern temples are dedicated to the Lord and have purposes similar to biblical ones. They are places of peace, inspiration, and learning. They are also where sacred ceremonies such as marriages are performed. These ceremonies are called ordinances. Everything in the temple points us to our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, who is the Savior of the world. In the temple, we learn more about Him and how to follow His perfect example.
Temples have a more specific purpose. They are places specially set apart for sacred service and ceremonies. They are designated by the Lord and dedicated to His purposes. Temples are the only places where some priesthood ordinances are authorized to be performed. From the very beginning, there have been sacred places upon the earth where God has communed with His children. They were designated by God and hallowed by His presence as places where He would teach and bless His children. Many of these places are recorded in the scriptures. These sacred ceremonies lift and inspire participants as they make commitments to follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. Making and keeping covenants refines individuals and unites families together for eternity. Our relationships with those we love can last forever when we honor our commitments to God. In temples, these ordinances are also performed by members of the Church on behalf of those who have died without the opportunity to hear and accept the gospel of Jesus Christ. Such service extends the saving grace of Jesus Christ to all people. After a temple is dedicated, entrance is reserved for members of the Church who are prepared to participate in these ordinances.
Temples are places of reverent worship where members strive to commune with God. Members are taught important gospel truths, such as the plan of happiness offered by our Heavenly Father, the Atonement of Jesus Christ, the divine nature of each person and the great blessings offered to all of God’s children. The primary purpose of temples is for members to participate in sacred ceremonies rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ.
A temple sealing is an ordinance that binds families together forever. This means that if we keep our covenants and obey God, we will live with our family again after we die. Prophets have promised that because of Jesus Christ, families can be eternal.