LDS answers questions about new temple

- information provided by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

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 fellow man. 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 meeting house?

A - Meeting houses 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. Meeting houses are open and busy all day 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 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 ground breaking, 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.