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Temple ordinances

The temple ordinances, which include washing, anointing, the endowment, and temple marriage (often called sealing) are available to all worthy adult members of the Church.

The members of the Church regard the commitments made in the temple as not only sacred but as an integral part of their eternal welfare.

The Temple in Sydney, Australia ©

Washing, anointing, and the endowment are ordinances in which participation does not require a partner.

The sealing ordinance is to join together a couple and their offspring, both born and unborn, for eternity, based on their personal righteousness, the righteous desires of their hearts and their service to humanity.

Washing and anointing

These ordinances consist of God's promises to the individual based on his/her faithfulness.

Endowment

The endowment is an initiation ceremony in which a Mormon makes pledges called covenants and is taught the secret signs believed to allow them to enter God's presence if they fulfil their covenants.

The covenants made in the endowment build on those made at baptism. They include promises to:

• observe the law of strict virtue and chastity
• be charitable, benevolent, tolerant and pure
• devote both talent and material means to the spread of truth and the uplifting of the human race
• seek in every way to contribute to the great preparation that the earth may be made ready to receive Jesus Christ
• keep these covenants
• not to trifle with sacred things

A blessing goes with each covenant providing it is faithfully observed.

Sealing or temple marriage

This ordinance seals together a man and wife for this life and for the eternities to come.

Mormons believe that the sacred ordinance of marriage is God-ordained and is meant to seal together family units, including the parents and all natural and legally adopted children.

Temple garments

After receiving their endowment Mormons are able and expected to wear the special temple garment except when it's not possible (for example, when swimming). It is worn as underclothing both day and night.

The temple garment is a type of white underwear. There's nothing physically special about them - you can see outwardly similar garments in any store that sells undergarments.

The importance of the temple garment is its spiritual significance. Mormons see it as spiritual armour and wear it as an outward expression of their inward commitment to follow Christ.

It acts as a permanent physical reminder of the sacred covenants made with the Lord in the temple, it is a protective covering for the body, and it is a symbol of the modesty of dress and living appropriate for true followers of Christ.

Brigham Young explains

Find out more

• The Temple