Temple (Latter Day Saints) - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Main article: Temple (LDS Church) See also: List of temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS church) has been the most prolific builder of temples. There are 139 operating temples, 1 previously dedicated but closed for renovation, 14 under construction, and 14 announced (not yet under construction). In this church, temples are not only a House of the Lord, but are also where members of the Church make covenants, receive instructions, and perform sacred ordinances, such as: baptism for the dead, washing and anointing (or "initiatory" ordinances), the "endowment," and eternal marriage sealings. Ordinances are a vital part of the theology of the church, which teaches that they were practiced by the Lord's covenant people in all dispensations. Additionally, members consider the temple a place to commune with God, seek God’s aid, understand the will of God, and receive personal revelation.

Upon completion, temples are usually open to the public for a short period of time (an "Open House"). During the Open House, the church conducts tours of the temple with missionaries and members from the local area serving as tour guides, and all rooms of the temple are open to the public. The temple is then dedicated as a "House of the Lord," after which only members in good standing are permitted entrance, thus they are not churches but rather places of worship.