Does Mitt Romney wear Mormon underwear?

Answer 1

Adult men and women who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the 'Mormon' church) may choose to participate in a special ceremony in the Temple called the Endowment. As a part of the Endowment ceremony, the person will make certain covenants or promises with God. They will then be given a sacred garment to wear under their clothing, which serves as a reminder of the promises they made to God during the ceremony. This is similar to the way wearing a wedding ring reminds one of the covenant or promise they have made with their spouse. Nobody is forced to wear the garment, but most choose to because the promises they made are sacred and special to them.

Many other denominations and religions have special robes or other clothing for their clergy, and since Mormons have an all lay clergy, the garment is considered a sort of 'priestly robe', qualifying them for responsibilities in the lay clergy. It is considered sacred and is not discussed in casual converstion. If it is mocked or disrespected it is very offensive to faithful Church members.

The Church published reference book, True to the Faith, says "Once you are endowed, you have the blessing of wearing the temple garment throughout your life... The garment provides a constant reminder of the covenants you have made in the temple... Wearing the garment is an outward expression of an inward commitment to follow the Savior."

For more information about the Temple Garment, check out the "Related Links" below.

Answer 2

Mitt Romney, like most adult members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the 'Mormon' church) has participated in a sacred Temple ceremony called the 'Endowment', in which a special priesthood garment is given to the participant. This garment is a symbol of the covenants and promises made with God during the endowment ceremony, and Mormons wear the garment to remind them of these sacred promises they made. (the ceremony and garment are based on the Old Testament, see Exodus 39:28; Exodus 28:40-43; Leviticus 16:4)

Since he has participated in this ceremony, Mitt Romney has an obligation to wear the garment under his clothing at all times, day and night, as a reminder and symbol of the covenants that he has made. If he chooses not to wear it, that is his personal choice, but as a faithful practicing Mormon, he most likely does.