Bishop Hobbies

Why do Latter-day Saints build temples?

Latter-day Saints build temples because they are houses of the Lord. In temples, we make sacred covenants with God and receive ordinances that help bind us to Jesus Christ and to our families. References: Temples; Doctrine and Covenants 124.

Temples also reflect our belief that God’s love reaches beyond the grave. Ordinances can be performed there for both the living and the dead, including baptisms and family sealings. For Latter-day Saints, temples are places of worship, peace, and eternal hope. References: Temples; Baptisms for the Dead.

What about those who were never baptized?

Latter-day Saints believe that baptism is essential, but we also believe God is completely fair and merciful. Many people never had a true chance in this life to hear the gospel or receive baptism by proper authority. Because of that, God has provided a way for them to receive the blessings of baptism. References: Baptisms for the Dead; Baptism; John 3:5.

We believe the gospel is preached in the spirit world, and in temples living members may be baptized by proxy for the dead. These ordinances are offered, not forced. Each person remains free to accept or reject them. References: Baptisms for the Dead; Spirit World; Doctrine and Covenants 138:31–34; 1 Corinthians 15:29.

The doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on the salvation of little children can be summarized in a single verse of scripture: “All children who die before they arrive at the years of accountability are saved in the celestial kingdom of heaven” (Doctrine and Covenants 137:10).