Can I go inside a Latter-day Saint 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 members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, temples are a sacred place of peace and promises. It is possible for people of other faiths to enter a temple only during a public open house, which takes 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 from ecclesiastical leaders, 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 that comes from a book of scripture called “The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus 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 “members of the Church of Jesus Christ” or “Latter-day Saints.”
Temple Open House
Before each temple is operational, the Church celebrates the beauty of the building during a public open house. This is an event where members and friends of other faiths alike can marvel at the interior of the building and enjoy the peaceful setting.
An open house is quite uncommon and only takes place after construction or major renovations.
The temple is later closed to the public after what is known as the dedication. During the dedication, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gather, and a special prayer is given to bless the temple. The Mesa Arizona Temple was most recently dedicated on Dec. 12, 2021, after extensive renovation to the building and grounds.
Visitors’ Center & Temple Grounds
The temple grounds and Visitors’ Center are open year-round for visitors to enjoy. At the Mesa Temple Visitors’ Center (open daily 10 a.m.-9 p.m.) there is a team of friendly volunteers that can explain the temple’s history and why the building is sacred and important. The Visitor’s Center also has a variety of interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.
