Can I go into a Latter-day Saint temple?

Temple Hill

August 24, 2020

Two palm trees in front of the Oakland California Temple.

This article was contributed by a local member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The views expressed may not represent the views and positions of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. For the Church's official site, visit churchofjesuschrist.org.

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 during an open house, which takes place before the dedication of the temple and grounds.

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 to 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 only takes 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 and dedicate it to Heavenly Father.

The Oakland Temple recently went under major renovations and had an open house before its dedication in 2019.

The Oakland Temple and The Christus in the Oakland Temple Visitors Center at night.

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, its history, and why the building is sacred.

For more information about the Oakland Temple select here.

To book your tour select here.

Can I go into a Latter-day Saint temple?