What Are Temples

Friend September 2024 “What are Temples?”

Friend October 2025 “Gospel Basics: Teach Me about Temples”

Friend October 2025 “What Do We Do in the Temple?”

Temples are Holy Places

The Temple Can Strengthen Us Spiritually

Friend November 2022 “Focus on the Temple” President Nelson talks of Jesus appearing to the Nephites at the temple because it’s his house. Also, he talks about the acceleration of temples being built to help strengthen us.

Friend December 2022 “Conference News”

The Temple is a Place of Peace

Friend July 2022 “The Butterfly Garden”

Friend April 2020 “Building Again” After experiencing a terrifying fire  where Sam’s house burnt down along with most of the town, Sam didn’t know if anything would be okay again. One day at learning center, Sam built a temple out of blocks of wood. His mother said it could be the first decoration in their new house because, “The temple is a place of peace. It can remind us that no matter what happens, we’ll be OK.”

Friend October 2025 “A Peaceful Place” Kevin wanted to go to the temple to do baptisms, but he had had a difficult day and was feeling stressed. He decided to go anyway. When he got to the temple he began to relax. It was quiet and peaceful in the temple. Everyone was whispering and he began moving slower and speaking softer too. After he did baptisms he felt even happier and more peaceful because he had helped people make covenants with God.

The Temple is a Holy Place Where We Can Feel the Lord’s Presence

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Exodus 35–40; Leviticus 1; 16; 19”The Lord commanded the children of Israel to build the tabernacle so He could “dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8).

Friend October 2025 “For Older Kids”

Friend July 2022 “Jesus Said”

Friend February 2020 “A Temple for Italo” After traveling to go to the temple, his mother told Italo to pay attention to the special spirit he felt while he waited for his parents outside on the temple grounds with others. He did feel a special feeling while waiting, and he saw a sign that said it was God’s house. He drew a picture of the temple because he wanted to remember how he felt there and to remind him that he wanted to go inside some day.[unitegallery 2020Febr]

Friend September 2021 “The Temple Is a Holy Place” Coloring page

House of the Lord

• Tell the children that on every temple is written “Holiness to the Lord. The House of the Lord.” If possible, show them a picture of these words on a temple. Why is the temple a special place? Read phrases from Doctrine and Covenants 97:15–16 that teach about the temple being the Lord’s house, and share your feelings about the temple.

Ask the children to imagine that a friend is trying to find their house. How can we help our friend know which house is ours? How do we know that the temple is the Lord’s house? Read Doctrine and Covenants 109:12–13 with the children, and tell them how you know that the temple is the house of the Lord. Show pictures of temples, and let the children share their feelings about the Lord’s house.

Friend February 2023 “Is God in There?” Elder Vaiangina Sikahema made a very long trip to the temple to be sealed with his family when he was a child. It was worth it to be at God’s house.

Friend January 2022 “For Older Kids”

Friend November 2022 “Focus on the Temple” President Nelson talks of Jesus appearing to the Nephites at the temple because it’s his house. Also, he talks about the acceleration of temples being built to help strengthen us.

The Temple is a House of Learning

In the temple we learn about Jesus Christ and how to become like him

The tabernacle not only allowed the children of Israel to have the presence of God with them, but it also taught them things they could do to become more like God.

• Younger Children: Display a picture of the ancient tabernacle (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Ask the children to find different parts of the tabernacle in the picture, such as the candlestick or the altars, and explain that these things were meant to help the Israelites think about the Lord (for more information about the tabernacle, see Exodus 40:17–34). What holy places do we have today that help us think about the Lord?
• Older Children: Invite the children to use Exodus 40:17–33 to identify things that were part of the tabernacle and find some of them in a picture of the ancient tabernacle (see this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Invite the children to draw their own pictures of the tabernacle. Talk about how each part of the tabernacle could teach about the Savior or Heavenly Father. For example, the ark of testimony could remind us of God’s commandments, the altar could remind us of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice, the candlestick could remind us that the Savior is the Light of the World, and so on.

Latter Day Kids “Symbols of the Tabernacle” Lesson ideas

Ensign March 2018 “Journey through the Ancient Tabernacle” Images of items found in the tabernacle and their meaning.

• Complete the activity page with the children. As you do, sing a song with them about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95).

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Holy Places” Lesson ideas

Old Testament Stories “Chapter 21: The Tabernacle” Video

The Tabernacle A video explaining the Tabernacle and its importance.

Friend October 2021 “Our Strong Foundation” President Nelson talks about the Salt Lake Temple foundation needs strengthened to shore up weak areas. Then he says, “We must build the foundation of our lives on the rock of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Then when spiritual earthquakes happen, we will be able to stand strong.”

Friend August 2025 “Blessings of the Temple” In the house of the Lord, we focus on Jesus Christ. We learn of Him. We make covenants, or promises, to follow Him. We come to know Him. (President Russell M. Nelson) (See more at link)

As we keep our temple covenants, we gain greater access to the Lord’s strengthening power.

Isaiah 2:2–3

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 1–12” Isaiah foresaw a time when the temple, “the mountain of the Lord’s house,” would attract people from “all nations.” You can use this prophecy to help the children look forward to the time when they can go to the temple.

• Ask the children to draw a picture of their home. Then read together Isaiah 2:2, and invite them to draw a picture of “the Lord’s house,” which is a temple. Read verse 3 together, and invite them to add to their pictures many people coming to the temple, including their families. Why do we want to go to the Lord’s house? Share your testimony of the blessings that come as we learn about the Lord in His house.

The Temple is God’s House Where He Will Teach Us His Ways

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 “2 Nephi 11-25” Read 2 Nephi 12:3, and explain that in this verse a prophet named Isaiah prophesied that there would be temples in the last days. Read the verse again, and and invite the other children to listen for reasons why Isaiah said we need temples. Emphasize that when we go to the temple, the Lord “will teach us of his ways” and help us “walk in his paths.”

2 Nephi 12:2–3

2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Book of Mormon 2024 “2 Nephi 11-19” Isaiah described the temple as “the mountain of the Lord’s house.” Your children might enjoy pretending to climb a mountain as you read 2 Nephi 12:2–3. Help them find phrases in these verses that describe why we have temples.

For the Strength of Youth “Ascend into the Hill of the Lord”

3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the ^chouse of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

• To illustrate the phrase “we will walk in his paths” from 2 Nephi 12:3, you could make a path on the floor, leading to a picture of a temple. As your children walk on the path, they could name things they can do to walk in the Lord’s paths.

Friend August 2023 “I Can Follow Jesus Christ”

• “The Temple—I’m going There Someday” (August 2009 Liahona and Friend)
  Draw word strips and move game pieces until everyone reaches the temple.

• Perhaps your children could draw a picture of themselves going to the temple. They could also sing or listen to a song about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95). Help them find phrases in the song that teach what the temple is and what we do there.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 Cut out the windows with the ordinances that are done inside the temple, and match them with the pictures in the windows of the temple.

Index of temple stories, activities, coloring pages, images, music and videos for children on LDS.org

I Love to See the Temple

Friend March 2024 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Paper Temples” Isaiah taught that temples are special places where we learn about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ (see 2 Nephi 12:3). Make your own temple! Fold a piece of paper into thirds. Cut one end into a triangle. Unfold the paper and draw yourself in the middle.

For younger children: Look at a picture of a temple together. Talk about how you can feel love in God’s house just like in your own home.

Friend September 2019 “Funstuff: Temples in Our Day” Pioneers worked very hard to build temples. In fact, the Salt Lake Temple took 40 years of hard work and sacrifice to finish. Try drawing this holy temple using the letter A!

Friend July 2016

• Draw a path on the board, and place a picture of the temple or the Savior at one end (see Personal Development: Children’s Guidebook, 2–3). Let the children take turns drawing themselves walking on the path. As they do, invite them to repeat this phrase from Isaiah 2:3: “We will walk in his paths.” What can we do to walk in the Lord’s paths?

Friend October 2021 “Our Strong Foundation”

Friend November 2019 “Being an Example” Activity Included: Draw a line to match the pictures of Jesus with ways you can be kind too.

Friend July 2020 “Bright Idea” I can follow Jesus Christ in small and simple ways.

Friend March 2018 “Family Night Fun” Each person makes a pair of sandals and then writes on their shoes one way they want to follow Jesus.

Isaiah 2:2–5

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Isaiah 1–12” Isaiah’s prophecy about “the mountain of the Lord’s house” reveals some of the blessings that come from worshipping in the temple, along with other blessings to come in the last days. Ponder how you will inspire the children to seek these blessings.

• Ask the children to read about what Isaiah saw in Isaiah 2:2–3 and draw a picture of what they think it might have looked like. Explain that Isaiah called the temple “the mountain of the Lord’s house.” Why is a mountain a good symbol for the temple?

In ancient times, it was common for a prophet to go to the top of a mountain to commune with the Lord God. Thus, the term “mountain of the Lord” symbolically denotes any location where the Lord makes His divine will known to His holy prophets. Church News

• Invite the children to read Isaiah 2:2–3, 5 and identify in each of these verses something that inspires them to go to the temple someday. Then read verse 4 together, and discuss how the temple helps bring about the peace described in this verse. Help them think of ways they can prepare now to go to the temple someday.

Liahona October 2010 “Your Path to the Temple” What happens inside the temple, the temple recommend, preparing now to enter the temple.

Friend September 2019 “What’s on Your Mind? The questions the Bishop or Branch President will ask during the temple recommend interview.

A Holy Place to Make Covenants with God

Friend December 2023 “Preparing for More Covenants”

Covenants Help Me Return to Heavenly Father.

Genesis 28:10–22

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Genesis 28-33” In a dream, Jacob saw a ladder leading up to heaven. (Imagine the bottom of the ladder as the earth and the top of the ladder as heaven or the presence of the Lord.)The steps on the ladder can represent covenants we make with God, because these covenants help prepare us to return to His presence.

• Read Genesis 28:12–13 to the children. Explain that the steps on the ladder can represent covenants that help us return to Heavenly Father. Invite the children to pretend they are climbing a ladder as you talk about times when we promise to obey God, such as when we are baptized, take the sacrament, or go to the temple. Help the children think of ways they can prepare to make covenants when they are baptized.

Teaching Children the Gospel “Ordinance (and Covenants) Progression Lesson” We must receive the saving ordinances of the gospel and keep the associated covenants in order to return to the presence of the Lord.

• Read Genesis 28:15 to the children, emphasizing the words “I am with thee” and “I will not leave thee.” Explain that God has promised to always be with us as we try to choose the right. Help the children think of things they can do to feel closer to Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.

• Invite the children to read Genesis 28:10–15 and then draw a picture of Jacob’s dream. Ask them to share their pictures. Explain that the ladder represented a way for Jacob to return to God. What has God given to help us return to Him? (see this week’s activity page). Remind the children of their baptismal covenant. How does living this covenant bring us closer to God?

• Show a picture of a temple, and write on the board key phrases from Genesis 28:15–17, such as: “I am with thee,” “The Lord is in this place,” “The house of God,” or “The gate of heaven.” Invite the children to find these phrases. Tell the children about how the temple and temple covenants help you feel close to the Lord.

“Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material We read in Genesis 28:16–19, 22 that Jacob described the place where he had his dream. The phrases “he was afraid” and “how dreadful is this place” in verse 17 refer to his feelings of reverence and awe. These phrases indicate that Jacob understood the seriousness of entering the presence of God.

Institute Old Testament Student Manual Genesis-2 Samuel “Genesis 24–36” “Because he had met the Lord and entered into covenants with him there, Jacob considered the site so sacred that he named the place Bethel, a contraction of Beth-Elohim, which means literally ‘the House of the Lord.’ He said of it: ‘… this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.’ (Gen. 28:17.)

What places serve as “the gate of heaven” for us today? “Temples are to us all what Bethel was to Jacob. Even more, they are also the gates to heaven for all of our unendowed kindred dead.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 Cut out the windows with the ordinances that are done inside the temple, and match them with the pictures in the windows of the temple.

Friend October 2021 “Build a Temple” Cut along the dotted lines to make a puzzle of what the Bangkok Thailand Temple will look like.

“Genesis 28: Jacob’s Sacred Experience,” Old Testament Seminary Student Study Guide

1. Identify the Promises Isaac promised Jacob(see vv. 3–4)The Lord promised Jacob(see vv. 13–15)Jacob promised the Lord(see vv. 20–22)   In Genesis 28, Isaac promised Jacob certain blessings, the Lord promised Jacob certain blessings, and Jacob promised the Lord he would do certain things. Identify the promises in this chapter and put them in a chart similar to the one shown.
2. Draw Your Ladder to Heaven
   1. Draw a ladder in your notebook. Label the rungs or steps with ordinances you must receive and covenants you must make with God in order to obtain eternal life.
   2. Show your drawing to your parents or Church leaders to see if you have left anything out.
   3. Write about what you are doing in your life right now to obtain these covenants or what you are doing to be worthy of the blessings of the covenants you have already entered into.

Friend February 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities: Climb the Ladder”

Story: Jacob had a dream about a ladder leading up to heaven. The steps on the ladder represent the steps we take to get closer to God. (See Genesis 28:10–16.)

Song: “Stand for the Right” (Children’s Songbook, 159)

Activity: Make a pretend ladder on the ground with chalk or sticks. Take turns saying one thing that we promise Heavenly Father when we get baptized. Each time, move one step forward on the ladder. (See Doctrine and Covenants 20:77and Mosiah 18:8–10.)

Latter Day Kids “Line Upon Line” Lesson ideas to go with the below video

The hymn “Nearer, My God, to Thee” (Hymns, no. 100) was inspired by Jacob’s dream. Your family could sing this song and discuss what each verse teaches.

Doctrine and Covenants 95:8

How have making and keeping temple covenants brought “power from on high” into our lives? Perhaps family members could share how they feel about the temple or share experiences when they have felt blessed with “power from on high” through worship in the temple.

Where We Can Be Sealed to Our Families Forever

Priesthood Keys are Restored

Doctrine and Covenants 110

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 109–110”

The Kirtland Temple is important in Church history. Jesus Christ appeared there, along with ancient prophets. These prophets committed priesthood keys to Joseph Smith that are needed to do God’s latter-day work.

• Invite the children to search Doctrine and Covenants 110:11–16 (or watch the below video) to find the names of three ancient prophets who appeared in the Kirtland Temple. Then help them find words in these verses that describe what each prophet “committed,” or gave, to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery. You can find a helpful description in “Chapter 40: Visions in the Kirtland Temple” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 156–57).

• Share phrases from Doctrine and Covenants 110 that help you and the children to understand the sacredness of these events.

Doctrine and Covenants Stories “Chapter 40: Visions in the Kirtland Temple” Images and Video

Latter Day Kids “The Restoration of Priesthood Keys” Lesson ideas and activities

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 109–110”

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “The Lord Accepted the Kirtland Temple”

 Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 26: The Kirtland Temple Is Dedicated,” (See link for a more complete story of the dedication of the Kirtland Temple and additional lesson ideas.)

Show several keys of different sizes or shapes (or refer to the ones on the chalkboard).

• Why do we use keys? How do we use them?
• What do you think these keys will open?
• What would happen if we lost a key to something that was locked?

Explain that priesthood keys are very important in the Church, but they are not keys like the ones displayed. They are not made of metal and cannot be held in your hand or put in your pocket. When we speak of priesthood keys, we mean the power and authority, given to the prophet and other priesthood leaders through the laying on of hands, to direct God’s work on earth. The President of the Church holds all the keys of the priesthood, and other priesthood leaders hold some of them. Priesthood holders may perform priesthood ordinances only as authorized by those who hold the appropriate priesthood keys. For example, before a father can baptize his child, he must receive permission from the bishop.

Remind the children that during the Apostasy the priesthood was not on the earth. The priesthood and the keys to direct the power of the priesthood needed to be restored so the Church could be restored and Church members could receive all the blessings of the gospel.

• Who restored the Aaronic Priesthood to Joseph Smith? (Show the picture of John the Baptist restoring the Aaronic Priesthood.)
• Who restored the Melchizedek Priesthood to Joseph Smith? (Peter, James, and John; show the picture of the Melchizedek Priesthood restoration.)

Explain that one of the reasons the Kirtland Temple was built was to provide a place where the Lord and his servants could restore additional keys of priesthood authority.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 109–110”

• Show the children some keys, and talk about what keys do. Let the children take turns holding the keys and pretending to open a locked door. As they do, explain that Joseph Smith received priesthood keys in the Kirtland Temple. These keys unlock power and blessings so we can do God’s work in His Church, such as sharing the gospel and doing temple work.
• To help the children understand the keys that Elijah committed to Joseph Smith, sing together a song about Elijah or family history, such as “Truth from Elijah” (Children’s Songbook, 90–91). Tell about an experience that helped turn your heart to your ancestors. Ask the children to share something they know about a grandparent or other ancestor.

Elder Gary E. Stevenson said, “All of Heavenly Father’s children [had] been locked out from the saving ordinances of the gospel of Jesus Christ—until a divine restoration was effected by [Moses, Elias, and Elijah]” (“Where Are the Keys and Authority of the Priesthood?” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 30).

• Share this description of priesthood keys by President Russell M. Nelson: “In your pocket there might be a key to your home or car. Priesthood keys, on the other hand, are intangible and invisible. They ‘switch on’ the authority of the priesthood” (“Personal Priesthood Responsibility,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2003, 45–46). To illustrate the importance of priesthood keys, discuss with the children the problems of losing a house key or car key. How is this similar to the problems of priesthood keys being lost? Help the children understand who holds priesthood keys today and how these keys are used to unlock blessings for all of God’s children (see “Priesthood Keys,” True to the Faith, 126–27).
• To further explain the keys restored in the Kirtland Temple, show the video “By the Hand of Elijah the Prophet” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Discuss what we can do to participate in the work that Elijah’s keys made possible. Or show the video “Gatherers in the Kingdom” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org) and talk about how we can help gather Heavenly Father’s children back to Him.

Liahona October 2021 “Why did Moses, Elias, and Elijah appear in the Kirtland Temple?”

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 109-110”

• What might help “turn the hearts” of your children to their ancestors? You can find some fun ideas at FamilySearch.org/discovery. You could work together to identify ancestors who need temple ordinances and plan to perform those ordinances at the temple. You could also talk about how the work restored by Elijah in the Kirtland Temple increases your love for your ancestors.

Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 26: The Kirtland Temple Is Dedicated,” (See link for a more complete story of the dedication of the Kirtland Temple and additional lesson ideas.)

• Sing with the children “The Spirit of God” (Hymns, no. 2), and tell them it was sung at the Kirtland Temple dedication—and in temple dedications today. Why was this a good song for the Kirtland Temple dedication?

Friend September 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Work together as a family to draw a picture of a temple. Then sing “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95). Talk about why the temple is important to you. Help your little ones say, “The temple is a special place.”

Additional Resources

• If you or your family have not yet been to the temple, you could visit temples.ChurchofJesusChrist.org to help prepare yourselves to go.
• See also Saints, 1:232–41; “A House for Our God,” Revelations in Context, 169–72.
• For 360-degree views of historic sites associated with the Doctrine and Covenants sections in this outline, click here.
• You can find the dedicatory prayer for the temple nearest you at temples.ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
• Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History “Lesson 26: The Kirtland Temple Is Dedicated,” (See link for a more complete story of the dedication of the Kirtland Temple and additional lesson ideas.)
• Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 109-110”
• Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 109-110”

Elijah Restored Priesthood Sealing Keys

Moroni told Joseph Smith that Elijah would come to “reveal … the Priesthood” (verse 1). This refers to the sealing power of the priesthood that allows families to be united eternally and enables us to receive ordinances for our ancestors in the temple.

Display a picture of a temple, and help the children name some of the things we do in temples. Explain that baptisms for the dead, eternal marriage, and sealing families in the temple are all possible because of the priesthood keys Elijah restored.

Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church: Doctrine and Covenants 2025

• Perhaps you and your children would enjoy looking at some pictures of your family, possibly including a picture of your family at a temple (or see Gospel Art Book, no. 120).

• You could then read Doctrine and Covenants 2 and share with each other your thoughts about why we have temples and why Heavenly Father wants families to be together forever.
• Consider singing together “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188). What does this song say we can do to be with our family forever?

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2

• Ask the children to read or listen to the prophecy in Doctrine and Covenants 2:1. Ask them to look for who the Lord would send in the last days and what this person would reveal. Display a picture of Elijah in the Kirtland Temple (see Gospel Art Book, no. 95), and talk about how this prophecy was fulfilled 13 years after Moroni’s visit (see Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–15).

• Explain that Elijah restored priesthood keys that allow families to be sealed together eternally. Show some objects that could help the children understand what it means to seal something, such as a can of food or a plastic storage bag with a zipper lock. How do these objects help us understand what it means for a family to be sealed?

Latter Day Kids “Come Follow Me: A Welding Link: (The Sealing Power)” Videos, songs, activities, and lesson ideas.

• Friend April 2020 “Alonso’s Forever Family” Alonso learned that because of Jesus’s resurrection people who have died will live again. He also learned about being sealed to his family. His parents had both died and he was living with his grandma. He couldn’t wait to go to the temple and be sealed to his parents. He saved any money he got so he and his grandma could make the trip to the temple. He was so grateful that  families can be together forever

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 2; Joseph Smith—History 1:27–65

“I will send you Elijah the prophet.”

Malachi 4:5–6

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 ” Malachi’s prophecy about Elijah the prophet was fulfilled when Elijah appeared to Joseph Smith in the Kirtland Temple and gave him the priesthood keys that allow families to be sealed together forever. You might consider inviting someone in the ward who has responsibility for temple and family history work (such as a member of the elders quorum presidency or Relief Society presidency) to help you teach this doctrine to the children. Remember to be sensitive to the feelings of children whose families have not been sealed.

• Write each phrase from Malachi 4:5–6 on a separate slip of paper. Give the slips of paper to the children, and ask them to put the phrases in the correct order. Read the verses together, and discuss questions like these: Who did the Lord promise to send? When did He say this person would come? What did the Lord say that this person would do? Why would this person need to come? Where was this prophecy fulfilled? (see Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–16).

• Write on the board a question like What does it mean for the hearts of the children to turn to their fathers? (see Malachi 4:6). Invite the children to ponder this question as they watch the video “Their Hearts Are Bound to You” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Then invite the children to share their thoughts about the question on the board. Discuss together experiences you or the children have had learning about family history.

• Show the picture of Elijah from this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me–For Individuals and Families. Invite the children to share what they know about the event this picture depicts (see also Doctrine and Covenants 110:13–16). Testify that the sealing power Elijah restored allows families to be united eternally—including families who didn’t have that opportunity in mortality. If you have participated in a sealing, either for yourself or for a deceased person, talk about what you felt during that ordinance. Ask the children to share their feelings about their families and about God’s plan to help families be together forever.

Explain that when we learn about our ancestors and do temple work for them, our hearts are turning to our fathers.

Friend August 2002 “The Heart of the Children” Fold the hearts in half, and glue each half to a half of a different heart (see illustration).

Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Temple Scramble: This girl has taken a family name to the temple. Can you put the pictures in order?

Friend October 2018 “Temple Time” The work we do in temples blesses our ancestors and the families of other people. Look through your family tree on FamilySearch.org and find as many temples as you can. Also, make a puzzle of a temple. (Activity Idea: For each temple you find in your family tree, put a piece of the puzzle together.

SECTION 131

1–4, Celestial marriage is essential to exaltation in the highest heaven; 5–6, How men are sealed up unto eternal life is explained; 7–8, All spirit is matter.

SECTION 132

Revelation given through Joseph Smith the Prophet, at Nauvoo, Illinois, recorded July 12, 1843, relating to the new and everlasting covenant, including the eternity of the marriage covenant and the principle of plural marriage. Although the revelation was recorded in 1843, evidence indicates that some of the principles involved in this revelation were known by the Prophet as early as 1831. See Official Declaration 1.

1–6, Exaltation is gained through the new and everlasting covenant; 7–14, The terms and conditions of that covenant are set forth; 15–20, Celestial marriage and a continuation of the family unit enable men to become gods; 21–25, The strait and narrow way leads to eternal lives; 26–27, The law is given relative to blasphemy against the Holy Ghost; 28–39, Promises of eternal increase and exaltation are made to prophets and Saints in all ages; 40–47, Joseph Smith is given the power to bind and seal on earth and in heaven; 48–50, The Lord seals upon him his exaltation; 51–57, Emma Smith is counseled to be faithful and true; 58–66, Laws governing plural marriage are set forth.

Heavenly Father Made it Possible for Families to be Together Forever.

Through Joseph Smith, the Lord restored the ordinances and authority needed to make these relationships eternal (see Doctrine and Covenants 132:7, 18–19).

Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4; 132:15, 19

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”

Through the Lord’s sealing power and the ordinances of the temple, our family relationships can last eternally if we keep our covenants.

• Help the children think of examples of things that do not last forever—food that spoils, flowers that wither, and so on. Show a picture of your family, and share how you feel about them. Testify that the Lord has made it possible, through the ordinances of the temple, for families to last forever.
• Open the Doctrine and Covenants to section 132, and tell the children that this is a revelation to Joseph Smith about marriage and families. Show them verse 19, and point to the words “through all eternity” as you read them. Invite the children to read these words with you.
• Help the children make paper dolls representing members of their family (see this week’s activity page). Cut them out, and put them in an envelope or attach them together with a paper clip to represent the sealing power that can make our families eternal.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132”

Regardless of our current family situation, we can make choices now that will prepare us to receive the blessings of an eternal family in the future.

• Ask some of the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4 and others to read 132:15. Help them discover what these verses teach about marriage. Select key phrases from 132:19 (such as “if a man marry a wife,” “everlasting covenant,” “sealed,” “abide in my covenant,” “through all eternity,” and “forever and ever”), and ask the children to find these phrases in the verse. What do these phrases teach us about marriage?
• Sing “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188), or review “Chapter 55: A Revelation about Marriage” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 198). Ask the children to listen for and be prepared to share what we must do so that our families can be eternal. Testify that no matter our current family situation, we can prepare ourselves to be part of an eternal family.
• Ask some of the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 131:1–4 and others to read 132:15. Help them discover what these verses teach about marriage. Select key phrases from 132:19 (such as “if a man marry a wife,” “everlasting covenant,” “sealed,” “abide in my covenant,” “through all eternity,” and “forever and ever”), and ask the children to find these phrases in the verse. What do these phrases teach us about marriage?
• Sing “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188), or review “Chapter 55: A Revelation about Marriage” (Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 198). Ask the children to listen for and be prepared to share what we must do so that our families can be eternal. Testify that no matter our current family situation, we can prepare ourselves to be part of an eternal family.

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Eternal Marriage”

Friend November 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones”

Draw a picture of a temple together. Have each person help draw one part. Help your little ones say, “Temples bless our family.”

Friend November 2021 “Scripture Time Fun”

• Sing “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188).
• Jesus taught that families are important. In the temple, we can be sealed to our families forever (see Doctrine and Covenants 132:19).
• Make a family tree! Have each family member make a paper leaf and write their name on it. On another paper, draw a tree trunk. Then glue or tape the leaves to the top of the tree.

Friend September 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Have everyone bring their hands together over their heads like a temple spire. Then lower your arms to encircle each other in a family hug. Talk about blessings families can receive in the temple. Help your little ones say, “I can be with my family forever.”

Friend November 2021 “Families Are Forever” Coloring Page

Additional Teaching Resources

• Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 129-132“
• Institute Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual “Chapter 51: Doctrine and Covenants 131; 132:1–33”

S

Friend March 2018 “What’s on Your  Mind” A child wants to know how his family will be together forever if his parents are divorced.

Friend June 2017 “Hope for My Family” Henry B. Eyring: The hope of feeling family love now and throughout eternity.

Ensign August 2016 “The Hope of Eternal Family Love”  Because of Jesus Christ’s Atonement and the restoration of priesthood power to seal families, we can live with our families forever! What do you love about your family? Follow these instructions to make this paper chain to celebrate your family.
Fold a piece of paper in half twice so you have one long strip.
Draw a person with hands reaching the folded edges.
Cut the person out. Don’t cut where the hands touch the folded edges.
Unfold it. Write or draw something you love about each family member.
Tape multiple chains together if you have a larger family!

Make a family banner with the family name on it, and then draw pictures of what is important to your family, like the temple, love, Jesus, etc.

• Sing together the second verse of “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Children’s Songbook, 188) or another song about families. Help the children think of ways they can prepare to be married in the temple someday and have an eternal family.

Friend July 2023 “What’s on Your Mind?”

You are a child of heavenly parents. Even before you came to this earth, you were part of Their family. And that will never change! So no matter what, you will always be part of a forever family!

Heavenly Father loves you and your parents very much. He wants you all to return to Him. He will keep blessing and guiding you and your family. Pray to Him about your worries, and He will comfort you.

We are sealed as families in the temple.

Malachi 4:5–6

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 ” Because of the priesthood keys of sealing that Elijah gave Joseph Smith in the Kirtland Temple, families can be united for eternity. As you teach this truth, be sensitive to the feelings of children whose families have not been sealed in the temple.

• Read Malachi 4:5 to the children. Then tell them that this promise was fulfilled when Elijah appeared to Joseph Smith in the Kirtland Temple (see “Chapter 40: Visions in the Kirtland Temple,” in Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 157). Show a picture of this event (see Gospel Art Book, no. 95), and invite the children to point to Elijah and to Joseph Smith. Explain that because Elijah came, we can be sealed as families in the temple. Share your testimony of the importance of being sealed as families.

• Tell the children about your love for your family; show a picture, if possible. Invite a few children to share their feelings for their family. Sing together a song about families, such as “Families Can Be Together Forever” (Hymns, no. 300), and testify that Heavenly Father wants families to be sealed together and that this is one reason we have temples. Help children understand that because of Jesus Christ, we can even be sealed to family members who were not able to go to the temple in this life. Invite the children to draw a picture of their family together in heaven.

Friend March 2021 “Forever” A family adopts a little girl and then are sealed together at the temple.

Friend April 2020 “Alonso’s Forever Family” Alonso learned that because of Jesus’s resurrection people who have died will live again. He also learned about being sealed to his family. His parents had both died and he was living with his grandma. He couldn’t wait to go to the temple and be sealed to his parents. He saved any money he got so he and his grandma could make the trip to the temple. He was so grateful that  families can be together forever

Friend February 2019 “My Eternal Family” Addie was born in South Korea and adopted by a family in Washington USA. She was then sealed to her new family.

Friend July 2016 “Forever Brothers” Markus is sealed to his adoptive family.

Friend February 1987 Family sacrifices much to attend the temple and be sealed together.

Friend February 1987 Family is sealed together, including their baby brother who had died.

Friend July 2016 “No Matter Who You Are” Andi worries because her family aren’t members and they haven’t been sealed in the temple, but her teacher reminds her she is also a child of God.

Friend July 2021 “A Postponed Trip” Freddie’s dad is going to South Korea because Freddie’s grandfather needs surgery. Freddie is sad that he doesn’t get to go because he is afraid his grandfather will die and he won’t get to see him again. His dad reminds him that families are forever and he will get to see his grandfather again.

Friend April 2023 “Forever and Always” James missed his baby sister, Rosie, who had died recently. For home evening, James’s parents decided to go to the temple for home evening and talk to James about being sealed there, which meant they would be with Rosie again and be a family forever.

Friend October 2023 “Remembering Abuela” Lyan and her family were celebrating “Day of the Dead” . But this year was different because her grandmother was one of the family members they would remembering. Lyan missed her grandmother. But her mother helped her remember that because of Jesus Christ, they would all be resurrected. And since they were sealed in the temple, they would all be together as a family someday.

Friend May 2023 “Margo and Paolo” Margo and Paolo’s family are going to be sealed together as a family in the temple.

Friend December 2023 “Together Always” Amir and his family are sealed together in the Rome temple.

Friend August 2024 “Brothers Forever” Ryan and his family traveled by bus two days to the temple to be sealed together as a family. When they were sealed together as a family, someone stood in for Ryan’s younger brother who had died at age one.

Friend September 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Have everyone bring their hands together over their heads like a temple spire. Then lower your arms to encircle each other in a family hug. Talk about blessings families can receive in the temple. Help your little ones say, “I can be with my family forever.”

Temple Marriage

“Lesson 34: Genesis 28–30,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material According to Genesis 28:1–2, Isaac instructed his son Jacob to marry one of the daughters of Laban and not a Canaanite woman. The Canaanites worshipped idols and engaged in other practices that were offensive to God. A daughter of Canaan would not be worthy to join Jacob in entering into a marriage covenant with the Lord. If Jacob were to marry a daughter of Canaan, he would be marrying out of the covenant.

When we are married in the temple, we make covenants with the Lord. Marriage in the temple is covenant marriage. If we keep our covenants, we qualify for all the blessings that were promised to Abraham.

Old Testament Stories “Jacob and His Family”

For a Holy Place to do Ordinances for the Dead

Spirits in the spirit world learn about the gospel. (Jr)

1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6

Tell the children about someone you know who has died. Explain that when people die, their spirits leave their bodies and go to the spirit world. Read 1 Peter 3:19 and explain that when Jesus died, he went to visit the spirit world. There, He asked the righteous spirits to teach the gospel to other spirits who had not yet accepted the gospel (see Doctrine and Covenants 138:30).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Show a picture of a temple. Explain to the children that when they are old enough, they can go to the temple and be baptized for their ancestors who were not baptized while on earth. Help the children fill out a simple family tree (see an example at “Family History Coloring Pages,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org).(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Friend July 2023 “My Family Tree”

Spirits in the spirit world learn about the gospel. (Sr)

1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6

Draw on the board a circle with a line through the middle. Write Spirit Paradise on one half of the circle and Spirit Prison on the other half. Invite one of the children to read 1 Peter 3:18–20; 4:6 (see 1 Peter 4:6, footnote a, for revisions from the Joseph Smith Translation). Explain that when Jesus died, He went to spirit paradise. He instructed the righteous spirits there to teach the gospel to the spirits in spirit prison. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Seminary Doctrine and Covenants and Church History Seminary Teacher Manual

President Joseph Fielding Smith: “[The Father] is going to give to every man the privilege of hearing the gospel. Not one soul shall be overlooked or forgotten. This being true, what about the countless thousands who have died and never heard of Christ, never had an opportunity of repentance, never met an elder of the Church holding the authority?…The Lord has so arranged his plan…that all who have died without this opportunity shall be given it in the spirit world.”

Invite a parent or an older sibling of one of the children to tell about going to the temple and receiving ordinances for one of their ancestors. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Why Are Mom and Dad Going to the Temple?”(August 2009 Friend)vNoah learns why his mom and dad keep going back to the temple.

• “Abraham Abraham and Me” (July 2016 Friend)
  James shares how he was baptized for one of his ancestors in the temple.

Invite the children to fill out a simple family tree (see an example at “Family History Coloring Pages,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org). (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter”)

Friend July 2023 “My Family Tree”

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “1 and 2 Peter” What can your family do to feel connected to your ancestors? Perhaps you could celebrate deceased ancestors’ birthdays by preparing their favorite meals, looking at pictures, or telling stories from their lives. If possible, you could also plan to receive ordinances for your ancestors in the temple (for help, visit FamilySearch.org).

Doctrine and Covenants 124:28–29, 39

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 124” Temples have always been part of Heavenly Father’s plan for His children.

• Help the children understand that when the Saints found a new home in Nauvoo, the Lord told them to build a temple (see “Chapter 50: The Saints in Nauvoo” Doctrine and Covenants Stories, 183–84, or the corresponding video on ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Invite the children to pretend they are building a temple.

• Read with the children this phrase: “My holy house, which my people are always commanded to build unto my holy name” (Doctrine and Covenants 124:39). Let the children hold a picture of an ancient temple (see Gospel Art Book,no. 52 or this week’s activity page) and a picture of a temple in your area. Explain that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have always commanded Their people to build temples—in ancient times and in our day. Share words and phrases from Doctrine and Covenants 124:28–29 to help the children understand why the Lord wants us to build temples.
• Invite the children to complete this week’s activity page to help them understand that we are God’s people and that God’s people have always been commanded to build temples.

“Sharing Time: The Lord Commands His People to Build Temples” Friend Feb 1993 Includes game and images about temple builders called “Who Am I”

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Nauvoo Temple Construction”

Friend October 2021 “Scripture Time Fun for Little Ones” Show a picture of a temple near you and talk about why the temple is special. Help your little ones say, “I love the temple.”

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 124”What do we learn from these verses about why the Lord commands us to build temples? Your family might like to draw a picture of a temple or build one out of blocks or other materials. As you do, you could discuss why you are thankful we have temples today and why we need to worship in them regularly.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 124”Some of the children you teach will soon be old enough to go to the temple and participate in temple ordinances. What can you do to help them prepare?

• Cover a picture or drawing of the temple. Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 124:38–41 for clues about what is in the picture. Let the children uncover the picture and discuss what these verses teach about why the Lord wants us to build temples.
• Invite the children to read Doctrine and Covenants 124:28–30 to look for reasons the Lord gave Joseph Smith for building the Nauvoo Temple. Share your feelings about the temple and any experiences you may have had doing baptisms for the dead. Help the children determine how long it will be before they are old enough to do baptisms for the dead in the temple.
• If you have a temple recommend, show it to the children, or invite a youth in the ward to show the children his or her recommend. Tell the children why a temple recommend is important and what we need to do to obtain one. Encourage them to begin preparing now to obtain their own recommend.

Baptism for the Dead

Gospel Topics “Baptism for the Dead” Jesus Christ taught that baptism is essential to the salvation of all who have lived on earth (see John 3:5). Many people, however, have died without being baptized. Others were baptized without proper authority. Because God is merciful, He has prepared a way for all people to receive the blessings of baptism. By performing proxy baptisms in behalf of those who have died, Church members offer these blessings to deceased ancestors. Individuals can then choose to accept or reject what has been done in their behalf.

Jesus Christ said, “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). Even Jesus Christ Himself was baptized (see Matthew 3:13–17).

Many people have lived on the earth who never heard of the gospel of Jesus Christ and who were not baptized. Others lived without fully understanding the importance of the ordinance of baptism. Still others were baptized, but without proper authority.

Because He is a loving God, the Lord does not damn those people who, through no fault of their own, never had the opportunity for baptism. He has therefore authorized baptisms to be performed by proxy for them. A living person, often a descendant who has become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is baptized in behalf of a deceased person. This work is done by Church members in temples throughout the world.

Liahona September 2025 “Temple Ordinances Unite, Connect, and Seal” Story of how baptisms for the dead first started in the restored church.

Gospel Media “Baptism for the Dead/ Now You Know” The below video refers to church members as Mormons. A discussion about the church name, and the nickname others give the church, may be needed in order to avoid confusion.

Friend November 2021 “The Nauvoo Temple”

SECTION 127

An epistle from Joseph Smith the Prophet to the Latter-day Saints at Nauvoo, Illinois, containing directions on baptism for the dead, dated at Nauvoo, September 1, 1842.

1–4, Joseph Smith glories in persecution and tribulation; 5–12, Records must be kept relative to baptisms for the dead.

SECTION 128

An epistle from Joseph Smith the Prophet to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, containing further directions on baptism for the dead, dated at Nauvoo, Illinois, September 6, 1842.

1–5, Local and general recorders must certify to the fact of baptisms for the dead; 6–9, Their records are binding and recorded on earth and in heaven; 10–14, The baptismal font is a similitude of the grave; 15–17, Elijah restored power relative to baptism for the dead; 18–21, All of the keys, powers, and authorities of past dispensations have been restored; 22–25, Glad and glorious tidings are acclaimed for the living and the dead.

All of God’s Children Need the Chance to be Baptized.

Latter Day Kids “Baptism for the Dead” Lesson ideas

Come Follow Me with Living Scriptures “Recorded in Heaven” Lesson ideas

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 125-128”

In August 1840, a grieving Jane Neyman listened to the Prophet Joseph speak at the funeral of his friend Seymour Brunson. Jane’s own teenage son Cyrus had also recently passed away. Adding to her grief was the fact that Cyrus had never been baptized, and Jane worried what this would mean for his eternal soul. Joseph knew how she felt; he had wondered the same thing about his beloved brother Alvin, who also died before being baptized. So the Prophet decided to share with Jane, and everyone else at the funeral, what the Lord had revealed to him about those who had died without receiving the ordinances of the gospel—and what we can do to help them.

The doctrine of baptism for the dead thrilled the Saints; their thoughts turned immediately to deceased parents, grandparents, and other family members. Now there was hope for them! Joseph shared their joy, and he used joyful, enthusiastic language to express what the Lord taught him about the salvation of the dead: “Let the mountains shout for joy, and all ye valleys cry aloud; and all ye seas and dry lands tell the wonders of your Eternal King!” (Doctrine and Covenants 128:23).

See Saints, 1:415–27; “Letters on Baptism for the Dead,” Revelations in Context, 272–76.

Doctrine and Covenants 128:5, 12

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 125-128” In addition to helping the children prepare to make their own baptismal covenants, teach them that we can help those who have died without baptism receive the same blessings.

• Show a picture of Jesus Christ being baptized (see Gospel Art Book, no. 35), or show the video “The Baptism of Jesus” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Ask the children if they have ever seen someone get baptized. What do they remember about it? Use the picture or video to show the children that when we are baptized, we go all the way under the water and then back up, just like Jesus did. Open to Doctrine and Covenants 128:12, and explain that Joseph Smith taught that being baptized reminds us of the Resurrection.
• Tell the children about someone you know (such as an ancestor) who died without being baptized. Read Doctrine and Covenants 128:5, and let them take turns holding a picture of a temple baptismal font (see this week’s outlinein Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). Testify that Heavenly Father allows us to be baptized on earth for people who are dead. This way all of God’s children can be baptized and make covenants with Him.

I can be baptized for people who died.(Jr)

1 Corinthians 15:29

Help the children think of things they cannot do for themselves. Who helps them do these things? Show a picture of one of your ancestors who died without being baptized. Tell the children about this person, and explain that this person needs our help to be baptized.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 14–16” )

Ask the children if they have any family members who have been to the temple to perform baptisms for the dead. Show pictures of a temple baptismal font. Ask the children if they know what happens here. Explain that in the temple we can be baptized for people who have died without being baptized. Then those people can choose whether to accept the baptism.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 14–16” )

1 Corinthians 15:12–13, 20–22, 29

Read 1 Corinthians 15:29. What were the Saints in Paul’s day doing that we also do today? Ask the children why we are baptized for the dead. If necessary, explain that many of our ancestors did not have the opportunity to be baptized and confirmed during this life. In the temple, we can be baptized and confirmed for them. (Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 14–16” )

Gospel Topics “Baptism for the Dead” Jesus Christ taught that baptism is essential to the salvation of all who have lived on earth (see John 3:5). Many people, however, have died without being baptized. Others were baptized without proper authority. Because God is merciful, He has prepared a way for all people to receive the blessings of baptism. By performing proxy baptisms in behalf of those who have died, Church members offer these blessings to deceased ancestors. Individuals can then choose to accept or reject what has been done in their behalf.

A few days before class, ask a parent of one of the children to help his or her child come prepared to share a family tree or to tell a story about an ancestor. You could also share about your ancestors.(Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “1 Corinthians 14–16” )

Friend November 2021 “They’re Waiting for Me!” Giselle lives in India, and she can’t wait until the temple is built there so she can do baptisms for her ancestors who have died without knowledge of the gospel. (Photos at link)

Temple Service

Friend May 2023 “Temple Baptisms”

Friend July 2022 “The Light and Peace of the Temple” President Eyring’s daughter was asked to do many baptisms for the dead. They had a feeling of light and peace as they left the temple. Temple service lifts and changes us.

Baptism for the dead creates “a welding link” between me and my ancestors.

Doctrine and Covenants 128:1, 15–18

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 125-128” Joseph Smith taught that baptism for the dead binds us to our ancestors like links in a chain. How can you help the children feel the joy that comes from learning about our ancestors and making sure that temple work is done for them?

• Divide the class in two groups, and ask the first group to read Doctrine and Covenants 128:1 to find out what subject occupied Joseph Smith’s mind. Ask the other group to read verse 17 and find out what subject he considered “the most glorious.” Let them share what they find, and talk about why this subject is so glorious. If possible, invite a youth who has done baptisms for the dead to share his or her experience and explain why we do this work.
• Consider using an object lesson to show that we need to help our ancestors who were not baptized. For example, display a gift or a treat, but place it out of reach of one of the children. Tell that child that he or she can have the object but can’t move from his or her seat. Ask the other children what they can do to help the child receive it. Read together Doctrine and Covenants 128:15, and talk about how it relates to the object lesson.
• Invite the children to make a paper chain with names of their parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and so on (see the activity page for this lesson). If the children don’t know their ancestors’ names, encourage them to find out the names and write them on the chain at home. Read together Doctrine and Covenants 128:18 to find out what the “welding link” is that makes our family history “whole and complete.” Tell a story about an ancestor that helps you feel connected to him or her. Or show the video “Courage: I Think I Get It from Him” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).
• Show the children a temple recommend, and tell them how you obtain one. Help them look forward to getting their own temple recommends so they can go to the temple and be baptized for their own ancestors.

Doctrine and Covenants Coloring Book “Baptisms for the Dead”

Gospel Topics “Baptism for the Dead” Jesus Christ taught that baptism is essential to the salvation of all who have lived on earth (see John 3:5). Many people, however, have died without being baptized. Others were baptized without proper authority. Because God is merciful, He has prepared a way for all people to receive the blessings of baptism. By performing proxy baptisms in behalf of those who have died, Church members offer these blessings to deceased ancestors. Individuals can then choose to accept or reject what has been done in their behalf.

Jesus Christ said, “Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). Even Jesus Christ Himself was baptized (see Matthew 3:13–17).

Many people have lived on the earth who never heard of the gospel of Jesus Christ and who were not baptized. Others lived without fully understanding the importance of the ordinance of baptism. Still others were baptized, but without proper authority.

Because He is a loving God, the Lord does not damn those people who, through no fault of their own, never had the opportunity for baptism. He has therefore authorized baptisms to be performed by proxy for them. A living person, often a descendant who has become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is baptized in behalf of a deceased person. This work is done by Church members in temples throughout the world.

Gospel Media “Baptism for the Dead/ Now You Know”  The below video refers to church members as Mormons. A discussion about the church name, and the nickname others give the church, may be needed in order to avoid confusion.

Friend April 2020 “The Temple and You” Before the Church was restored, many people believed that if someone in their family died without being baptized, they would never see them again. But because of the Restoration, we can be baptized for them in the temple. We can be sealed together for eternity!

Friend January 2020 “For Older Kids” Each temple baptism font rests on the backs of twelve oxen. They stand for the twelve tribes of Israel and remind us that the Lord wants to gather all people into His Church. Unscramble the letters to find out which temple this font is in.

Family History Coloring Pages “Baptisms for the Dead”

Friend October 2021 “My First Temple Trip” Elena’s step by step first visit to the temple to do baptisms for the dead.

Friend October 2017 “Finding Lydia” Lydia isn’t excited to be graduating from Primary and going to Young Women’s, but she becomes more excited when her mother finds some family names for her to do baptisms for in the temple, and one is named Lydia.

Friend July 2016 “Abraham Abraham” A boy does baptisms at the temple for the first time and learns its importance.

Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Sister Jones, the general primary president, challenges a 12 year old boy to find a family name to take to the temple. He later writes to her letter telling of his success and of his opportunity to be baptized in the temple for his 3rd great grandfather and how that felt. He also tells her of his desire to do more.

For Additional Teaching Ideas see:

• “Lesson 34: Joseph Smith Teaches about Baptism for the Dead,” Primary 5: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History 
• Resources for Teaching Children “Baptisms for the Dead”
• Doctrine and Covenants Historical Resources “Doctrine and Covenants 125-128”
• Institute Doctrine and Covenants Student Manual “Chapter 49: Doctrine and Covenants 125–28”

Heavenly Father Wants Me to Learn About My Family History.

Doctrine and Covenants 128:18

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 125-128” There are simple ways in which young children can participate in family history work. Help them feel love for the people in their family tree.

• Create a paper chain with names of people in your family (see this week’s activity page), and bring it to show the class. Tell a few things about the people on your chain. Read to the children from Doctrine and Covenants 128:18, and explain that Joseph Smith taught that “there is a welding link … between the fathers and the children.” Help the children make their own family chains, and invite them to take the chains home and have their parents help them add names of ancestors.
• Ask the children to share something about one of their grandparents. Tell one of your favorite stories about your parents or grandparents. Show pictures if possible. Encourage the children to learn more about their grandparents and other ancestors.

Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Sister Jones, the general primary president, challenges a 12 year old boy to find a family name to take to the temple. He later writes to her letter telling of his success and of his opportunity to be baptized in the temple for his 3rd great grandfather and how that felt. He also tells her of his desire to do more.

Friend November 2021 “They’re Waiting for Me!” Giselle lives in India, and she can’t wait until the temple is built there so she can do baptisms for her ancestors who have died without knowledge of the gospel. (Photos at link)

Friend October 2019 “The Temple Challenge” Temple Scramble: This girl has taken a family name to the temple. Can you put the pictures in order?

Friend March 2021 “For Older Kids” In the temple, we do baptisms for those who died without having the chance to be baptized when they were alive. Remembering your own baptism can help you understand how happy the people we’re baptized for in the temple feel! Write down what you remember about your baptism.

Friend April 2020 “The Temple and You” Before the Church was restored, many people believed that if someone in their family died without being baptized, they would never see them again. But because of the Restoration, we can be baptized for them in the temple. We can be sealed together for eternity!

Friend January 2020 “For Older Kids” Each temple baptism font rests on the backs of twelve oxen. They stand for the twelve tribes of Israel and remind us that the Lord wants to gather all people into His Church. Unscramble the letters to find out which temple this font is in.

Friend September 2019 “It’s Temple Time!” What to expect when doing baptisms for the dead, from start to finish.

Friend May 2021 “Conference Notes”

Goal Card

The Temple Helps Us to Gather Israel

Friend August 2025 “Blessings of the Temple”The blessings of the temple help to gather Israel on both sides of the veil. Gathering Israel means helping all of Heavenly Father’s children return to Him. The temple helps us do that! Can you help everyone find their way through the maze to the temple?(See more at link)

Blessings of the Temple

Friend June 2025 “Blessings of the Temple”

Friend May 2024 “Temple Power” Kirtland Temple purchased. Blessings of temples

Great blessings come from the temple.

Ezekiel 47:1–12

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezekiel 1–3; 33–34; 36–37; 47”Ezekiel’s vision of a healing river that flowed out of a temple can help the children learn that temples bring blessings into our lives.

• Show the children a glass of water. How does water bless us?(It quenches our thirst, it cleanses, it provides life for plants and all living things. Without water we would die.)
• Tell the children about Ezekiel’s vision of water flowing out of the temple (see Ezekiel 47:1–12). Show the picture in this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families (see also the video “And the River Will Grow,” ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Tell the children about blessings you receive that, like the river in Ezekiel’s vision, flow from the temple.

These verses describe Ezekiel’s vision of water flowing from the temple and healing the Dead Sea—a sea so salty that fish and plants cannot live in it. Children might enjoy drawing a picture of this vision. What could the water flowing from the temple symbolize? How does the temple help heal us? (see Ezekiel 47:8–9, 11).

Temple blessings can heal our hearts and families.

Ezekiel 47:1–12

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezekiel 1–3; 33–34; 36–37; 47”The water flowing from the temple in Ezekiel’s vision brought life to everything it touched. Similarly, the blessings that flow from the temple can heal us spiritually and bring us eternal life.

Here are some of the key blessings associated with LDS temples:

1. Participation in Ordinances: Temples are the only places where certain sacred ordinances — such as the Endowment, sealing of couples in marriage for eternity, and baptism for the dead — can be performed. These ordinances are considered essential for individual progression and salvation.
2. Eternal Families: The temple is where families can be sealed together, meaning they can be together forever, not just “until death do us part.” This sealing extends to children as well, who are considered to be sealed to their parents for eternity.
3. Learning and Instruction: In the temple, individuals receive instruction and make covenants related to the Plan of Salvation and their relationship with God. These teachings provide guidance for personal development and spiritual growth.
4. Personal Revelation: Many members of the LDS Church report that the peaceful, sacred atmosphere of the temple is conducive to receiving personal revelation and divine guidance.
5. Service to Others: In the temple, members perform vicarious ordinances on behalf of those who have died, providing them with the opportunity to accept these ordinances in the afterlife. This service to others is considered a significant blessing and a manifestation of love and selflessness.
6. Peace and Comfort: Many Latter-day Saints find that attending the temple provides a sense of peace and comfort, offering a spiritual refuge from the world. It can be a place to seek comfort, find answers to prayers, and feel closer to God.
7. Communion with the Divine: Temples are considered “Houses of the Lord,” and as such, are places where individuals can feel a special closeness to God and Jesus Christ.
8. Protection and Power: The covenants and ordinances performed in the temple are believed to provide spiritual protection and power from God, including the power to resist temptation and overcome worldly challenges.

• List on the board some key words and phrases related to Ezekiel 47:1–12, such as temple, river, desert, Dead Sea, multitude of fish, and fruitful tree. Invite each child to pick one of these things to draw. Then read the verses together, and invite the children to share their drawings when their elements are mentioned. What blessings came from the river in this vision? (see verses 8–9, 12). Help the children see how these blessings are like the blessings Heavenly Father and the Savior offer those who keep temple covenants.
• Show the video “And the River Will Grow” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org). Or read together what Elder Dale G. Renlund taught about Ezekiel’s vision in “Family History and Temple Work: Sealing and Healing” (Ensign or Liahona, May 2018, 47–48). Tell the children how family history work and the temple have brought you the Savior’s healing. Invite the children to share their feelings about the temple.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Doctrine and Covenants 2021 “Doctrine and Covenants 109–110”

• Choose verses from section 109 or 110 that you feel highlight the blessings of the temple (such as the ones listed below from this week’s outline in Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families). List these blessings on the board, and invite the children to search the verses you chose to find those blessings. How might we explain to someone why the temple is important to us?

• Verses 5, 12–13 (see also Doctrine and Covenants 110:6–8): In the temple the Lord can manifest Himself to us and we can feel His power.
• Verses 9, 17–19, 26, 78–79: In the temple we take upon ourselves the Lord’s name.
• Verses 22–23: As we make and honor temple covenants, the Lord gives us power to do His work.
• Verses 24–33: As we attend the temple worthily, we can receive the Lord’s protection.

The temple can bring me joy.

Ezra 3:8–13

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” The account of Zerubbabel and the Jews rebuilding the temple can help the children you teach rejoice in the blessings that come because of the house of the Lord.

• Invite the children to talk about something that makes them happy. Show a picture of someone smiling in front of a temple (such as the picture in this outline), and ask the children why the person might be so happy. Testify that the temple is the Lord’s house, and tell about a time when you felt happy because of the temple.

Friend October 2021 “A Temple Birthday” Lydia wants to visit the temple for her birthday because it is a happy place where we can feel close to Jesus.

• Read to the children the last part of Ezra 3:12, explaining that when the Jews laid the foundation of the temple, “many shouted aloud for joy.” Invite the children to shout for joy. Help them think of reasons we can be joyful about the temple. For example, in the temple we make promises with God that allow our families to be together forever.

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Book of Mormon 2020 Cut out the windows with the ordinances that are done inside the temple, and match them with the pictures in the windows of the temple.

Friend July 2022 “Temple Tour”

How did the Jews celebrate when the foundation of the temple was laid? Select all that apply:

1. They sang.
2. They shouted with joy.
3. They danced.
4. They praised and thanked the Lord.

• Sing with the children a song about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95). After each line, pause to ask a child to share something he or she loves about the temple.

The temple gives me reason to rejoice.

Lesson 107: Ezra,” Old Testament Seminary Student Material (2018) Read Ezra 6:16, 22, looking for how the Lord blessed the people during the dedication of the temple.

What principle might we identify from these verses about the blessings of building temples and participating in temple work?

One principle we can identify from Ezra 6:16, 22 is that as we participate in temple work, we will be blessed with joy.

How have you or someone you know experienced joy through participating in temple work, including family history work?

Friend March 2021 “Forever” A family adopts a little girl and then are sealed together at the temple.

Friend November 2021 “Family History Blessings” Antonella got a Family Search account when she was baptized. She’s learned more about her family and loves her family even more now. She also wants to help others unite their families for eternity.

Ezra 3:8–13; 6:16–22

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: Old Testament 2022 “Ezra 1; 3–7; Nehemiah 2; 4–6; 8” As you review with the children the account of Zerubbabel and the Jews rebuilding the temple, find ways to testify of the joy that comes to us because we have temples today.

• Invite the children to work together to find phrases in Ezra 3:10–13 that show how the Jews felt when the temple in Jerusalem was being rebuilt. How can we show our joy at having temples on the earth today? Help the children think of ways they can prepare to go to the temple.

• Share with the children your feelings about the temple. How has the temple helped you feel closer to Heavenly Father and the Savior? Why do we celebrate when a temple is dedicated? Give the children time to write down how they feel about the temple, and encourage them to share what they wrote with their families.

For modern examples of rejoicing at the building of temples, see the videos “Practice, Celebration, Dedication: Temple Blessings in El Salvador” and “The Laie Hawaii Temple Youth Cultural Celebration” (ChurchofJesusChrist.org).

Friend July 2022 “Come, Follow Me Activities” Temple Craft

Story: The temple in Jerusalem was destroyed. Years later, the people rebuilt it. They were so happy! They “praised the Lord” and “shouted aloud for joy” (Ezra 3:11, 12).

Song: “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95)

Activity: Fold a piece of paper in half. Draw or glue a picture of the temple on the front. Then open the fold and draw or glue a picture of yourself inside. Write the words, “I’ll go inside someday.” Talk about how going to the temple can make us happy.

Reverence and Respect for the House of God

Jesus Cleanses the Temple Video

“Lesson 8: Jesus Christ Cleanses the Temple,” Primary 7: New Testament  Draw a horizontal line across the chalkboard. Write RESPECT above the line and DISRESPECT below. Ask the children to pretend a friend is coming to their home. Tell them you are going to draw a “respect line” on the chalkboard. Mention things the friend does (see below), and have the class decide if the friend is showing respect or disrespect for you and your home. Draw a continuous line, intersecting the horizontal line on the chalkboard, moving up for situations showing respect and down for ones showing disrespect. Use situations such as the following:

The friend:

• Waits quietly outside until invited in.
• Walks in with muddy feet.
• Thanks you for the invitation to come.
• Shouts and yells loudly in your home.
• Greets your parents politely.
• Demands something to eat.
• Treats your possessions carefully.
• Ignores your parents when they speak to him or her.
• Invites you to visit at his or her house.

Your “respect line” may look something like this:

Have the children answer the following questions to themselves:

• When you visit a friend’s home, what does your “respect line” look like?
• When you come to Primary, what does your “respect line” look like?
• What does your “respect line” look like when you are in your own home?
• Help the children understand that this temple was a sacred place, just as our temples and church meetinghouses are today, and Jesus wants us to respect these holy places.
• Draw another “respect line” on the chalkboard as the children give examples of actions that show respect or disrespect in the church building. We show reverence for the temple by …

Divide students into groups of two or three. Invite the groups to write on a piece of paper as many ways to complete the statement as they can. After a minute or two, ask one group to share its list with the class. While the first group shares, ask the other groups to put a check mark next to each item on their lists that is mentioned. Next, have another group share the items on its list that were not mentioned by the first group. Repeat this process until all of the groups have shared. New Testament Seminary Teacher Manual “John 2”

What impure influences does your family need to keep out of your home so it will be a sacred place—like the temple? What will you do to keep those things out? Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 “John 2-4”

• Sing together a song about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95). What phrases in this song teach us why the temple is sacred?

Song “I Love to See the Temple” Visual Aids

• Give each child a picture of a temple, or invite them to draw one. Sing together a song about temples, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95). Invite the children to hold up their pictures each time they sing the word “temple.” Point out to them other words in the song that teach us something important about the temple. Tell the children how you feel about the temple and how you know it is the house of the Lord.

The temple is a sacred place.

Matthew 21:12–14

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; John 12” Jesus’s reverence for the temple, as described in these verses, can help the children you teach understand that the temple is a sacred place.

• Show the picture Jesus Cleansing the Temple (Gospel Art Book, no. 51), and tell the story recorded in Matthew 21:12–14. Help the children find money and animals in the picture. Then discuss why the Savior wanted the money changers and the people selling animals to leave the temple.

• Show pictures of temples (for examples, see Gospel Art Book, nos. 117–19), and ask the children to share how they feel when they see a temple. You might explain that the temple is a place where we go to make promises with God, seek answers to prayers, and feel close to God. Help the children identify feelings from the Holy Ghost telling them that the temple is a special place. Ask the children to act as they would if they were inside the temple. For instance, they could talk in whispers and sit reverently.

Friend July 2022 “Jesus Said”

• Sing together a song about the temple, such as “I Love to See the Temple” (Children’s Songbook, 95), and invite the children to make a goal to go inside the temple someday.

The temple is a sacred place that I should respect.

Matthew 21:12–14

Come, Follow Me—For Primary: New Testament 2023 “Matthew 21–23; Mark 11; Luke 19–20; John 12” How can the account of the Savior cleansing the temple help you teach the children about the sacredness of temples?

• Invite the children to read Matthew 21:12–14. Show the picture Jesus Cleansing the Temple (Gospel Art Book, no. 51), and ask them which verse is depicted in the picture.

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New Testament Seminary Student Manual (2023) “Matthew 21:12–16” Jesus went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover and visited the temple. Worshippers who came to Jerusalem needed to exchange their money for currency that could be used at the temple to purchase animals for the sacrifices that would be made in their behalf by the priests. Even though this business was necessary and served a good purpose, handling it at the temple was disrespectful and irreverent. The phrase “a den of thieves” suggests that the moneychangers and merchants were more interested in making a financial profit than in worshipping God and helping others worship.

Come, Follow Me—For Individuals and Families: New Testament 2023 How do Jesus’s words and actions in Matthew 21:12–14 show how He felt about the temple? How do we show how we feel about the temple? What can we “cast out” (verse 12) of our lives to make our home more like the temple?

• Invite the children to share how they have felt when they have gone inside a temple, visited temple grounds, or looked at pictures of temples. What helped them know the temple is a sacred place? You might share with the children why you love the temple. Why is it sacred to you?

Friend July 2015 “What Do We Do in the Temple”

• Invite one or more youth to come to class and talk about how they have prepared to enter the temple. If they have been to the temple, ask them to talk about how they felt when they were there.

• Cut a picture of a temple into puzzle pieces, and give each child one piece. Ask the children to write on the back of their puzzle piece one thing they can do to prepare to enter the temple. As each child shares an idea, add his or her piece to the puzzle.

Friend October 2021 “Build a Temple” Cut along the dotted lines to make a puzzle of what the Bangkok Thailand Temple will look like.

• On the board, write the following:  can help me prepare to serve in the temple. Invite the children to suggest ways to complete this sentence. Some ideas might include “Keeping my baptismal covenants” or “The Holy Ghost.”

• “The Temple—I’m going There Someday” (August 2009 Liahona and Friend)
  Draw word strips and move game pieces until everyone reaches the temple.

Inside Temples

Preparing to Go to the Temple

History of Temples

Additional Resources

Temple photos, statistics, and history on LDS.org

Index of temple stories, activities, coloring pages, images, music and videos for children on LDS.org