Do Mormons Wear White Inside Their Temples?

The question of whether Mormons wear white to the temple often arises, especially among those unfamiliar with the traditions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Contrary to the stereotype, members of the LDS Church do not typically wear white to the exterior of the temple. The clothing requirement inside the temple is quite different from what one might expect.

What Do Mormons Wear to Attend the Temple?

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), also known as Mormons, do not wear all-white clothing at the exterior of the temple. Instead, they typically wear formal attire, often described as 'Sunday best.' This includes suits, ties, dresses, and any other formal wear that would be appropriate for attending a church service on a Sunday. The purpose of this is to demonstrate respect and reverence from a distance, much like attending a formal event.

Upon entering the temple, a significant change in attire is required. All members—including men, women, and even children—remove their shoes and change into white clothing. This change is not optional but is a requirement for all those wishing to participate in the sacred ceremonies inside the temple. The white garments are provided at the temple and cover the body from head to foot. The temple’s interior, which is reserved for members, is a space dedicated to spiritual growth and sacred ordinances.

Why the Requirement for White Clothing?

The requirement to wear white clothing inside the temple serves several purposes. Firstly, it maintains a clean and sacred environment. By removing outside dirt and soil, the temple remains pristine and protected. Secondly, the uniformity of the complete white attire symbolizes purity and equality among the attendees, regardless of their background or social status. This is seen as a way to symbolize Jesus Christ's message of love and unity.

Additionally, the act of changing clothes and removing shoes serves as a reminder of humility and reverence. This practice is not unique to the LDS Church, as many other religions also have similar customs regarding the removal of shoes and purification rituals. It is a way to prepare oneself to be a vessel of divine presence and to focus on the spiritual aspects of the temple experience.

Rare Ceremonies and Exceptions

Outside of the standard temple ordinances, there are rare occasions when members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints might wear their regular 'Sunday best' clothing. For example, during special ceremonies such as a Temple Sealing (marriage) or other formal blessings, members may wear their regular formal attire to the ceremony. However, once the ceremony begins, attendees quickly change into their white temple garments.

It is worth noting that Mormon temples are not open to the public except for guided tours. Non-Mormon visitors are welcome to tour the exterior of the temple and learn about its history and symbolism, but they are not allowed inside. The interiors of these temples are private and sacred spaces, reserved for members to partake in the unique ordinances and blessings of the LDS Church.

Conclusion

In summary, while the exterior of an LDS temple does not require white clothing, the interior is a different story. Members are expected to wear white garments and remove their shoes upon entering. This practice is seen as a way to maintain sanctity, promote humility, and ensure the cleanliness of the temple. For those considering entering a Mormon temple, it is important to respect these traditions and prepare accordingly to ensure a meaningful and harmonious experience.