
Q:
What is the purpose of the temple?
A:
To members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, temples
are literally the "house of the Lord." Temples are sacred buildings in
which Latter-day Saints receive instruction about the purpose of life and
their relationship to God. There they take part in religious ceremonies
that reach beyond mortality, both for themselves and in behalf of deceased
ancestors. They also make covenants to serve God and their fellowman. Sacred
ordinances such as eternal marriage and vicarious baptisms for the dead
are done only in temples. These ordinances make it possible for individuals
to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally
Q:
What is it like inside the temple?
A:
Many people are under the impression that the interior of a Latter-day
Saint temple is like a great hall or cathedral. Actually, temples are made
up of a number of rooms designed to accommodate certain functions such
as marriages, baptisms, and religious instructional sessions. Inside the
temple, Church members change into simple, modest, white clothing before
taking part in temple ceremonies. The white temple clothing symbolizes
purity and reverence
Q:
Will members of the public ever see the inside of the temple?
A:
Yes. After the temple is completed, an open house (typically several days) is held for the general public. During the open house, public tours are organized and information is provided to answer questions and to explain the different functions and ceremonies performed in the temple.
Q:
What is the difference between a temple and a meetinghouse?
A:
Meetinghouses are open to all, and everyone is welcome to attend the
Sunday worship services and other activities held there. After temples
are dedicated, only faithful Latter-day Saints may enter them. Meetinghouses
are open and busy all day on Sunday, while temples are generally closed
that day. Besides Sunday services, meetinghouses can be used for a variety
of other activities such as a special dinner, a youth activity, or even
a community blood drive. Temples are used only for sacred ordinances that
bless individuals and bind families together for eternity.
Q:
What will happen to the value of the property around the temple?
A:
As visible symbols of honor and reverence to God, Latter-day Saint temples are built using the finest craftsmanship and materials available. They are beautifully landscaped and maintained and designed to complement the community.
Q:
Will the temple cause traffic and parking problems?
A:
No. The temple is not designed to accommodate large numbers of people
at any one time. Since temple activity is spread out over the day, traffic
flow is nominal. Ample parking is available on site. During the groundbreaking,
open house, and dedication, we work closely with our neighbors to minimize
the impact of the traffic and parking, and to ensure them easy access to
their homes and businesses.
Q:
Will the Church use this temple as some sort of a center to proselytize our community?
A:
No. Temples are used only for performing sacred ordinances and not as centers for local congregations or for proselytizing.
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