Can I go into a Latter-day Saint temple?

Temple Hill

August 24, 2020

To The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, temples are a sacred place of peace and promises. It is only possible for non-members to enter the temple only during the open houses, which take place before the dedication.

The temples are private due to the worship that takes place within. Many of the ceremonies that occur are very symbolic and sacred. Due to the importance of the ceremonies inside, the temples are not always available for the public eye. Only Latter-Day Saints, with special recommendations of worthiness, may enter operational temples.

Did you know?

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints prefer not to be called “mormons” anymore? The term “mormon” is a nickname comes from a book of scripture called “The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Christ.” Learn more.

The word Mormon is fine to use in proper names, like the Book of Mormon, or in historical expressions like the Mormon Trail. But we ask that you refer to us as “Latter-day Saints” or “members of the restored Church of Jesus Christ.”

Temple Open House

Before each temple is operational, the church celebrates the beauty of the building during an open house. This is an event where members, and non members alike can marvel at the interior of the building

An open house are quite uncommon and only take place after construction, or serious renovations.

The temple is later closed to the public after what is known as the dedication. In the dedication the building is completed and a special prayer is given to bless the temple.

The Oakland Temple recently went under major renovations, and celebrated with another open house in 2019.

Visitors’ Center & Temple Grounds

The temple grounds and visitors’ center are always available for everyone to enter. At the Oakland Temple Visitors’ Center, there is a team of friendly volunteers that explain what happens inside the temple, the history, and why the building is sacred.

For more information about the Oakland Temple click here.

To book your tour click here.

Can I go into a Latter-day Saint temple?