Why do you have to be Mormon to go into the temple in salt lake city?

Answer 1

To enter any temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (the "Mormon" church), not just the one in Salt Lake City, you must be a faithful, practicing member of the Church. This is because temples are considered to be the most sacred places on earth, and only those who are participating in the sacred ceremonies performed there are allowed to enter. In order to enter the temple, a Mormon must receive a special recommendation from their Bishop which says that they are keeping the commandments of God.

The only time that non-Mormons are allowed to enter a temple is before it is dedicated (when it is brand new or has undergone major renovations). Before being dedicated, the temple will offer free tours to the general public, usually for a period of two to four weeks. In the event of an emergency, police, paramedics, or fire personnel may enter. Additionally, most temples include a waiting room or lobby where non-Mormons may wait for family members or friends who are participating in a ceremony.

Because the Salt Lake City Temple receives so many visitors asking this and similar questions, a special exhibit has been set up at the South Visitors Center, just south of the Temple itself. The exhibit features a miniature scale cut out display of the temple, showing all the rooms and their furnishings. Interactive computers explain each room and its purpose.

If you want to learn more about Mormon temples or see interior photographs of other Mormon temples, check out the "Related Links" below.