Touring the Salt Lake Temple: Insights for Non-Mormon Visitors
Are non-Mormons allowed to visit the Salt Lake Temple? The answer involves a nuanced understanding of the Mormon Church's policies and forthcoming renovations. Currently, the Salt Lake Temple, like many other Mormon temples, is off-limits for tours. However, there are alternative ways for visitors to engage with this significant site.
What About Tours?
Non-member visitors are not permitted to tour the Salt Lake Temple itself. Even members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are not allowed tours. The official stance is that the temple is closed for renovations at present, and when it reopens, it will be for a limited time solely for tours. Following these tours, the temple will undergo a dedication ceremony and then will be closed again to the public. This schedule ensures the temple remains a sacred space.
Can Non-Mormons Go Inside the Interior Temple?
While non-Mormons might be eager to explore the inner sanctum of the Salt Lake Temple, access remains highly restricted. Non-members are not allowed to enter the inner parts of the temple. A valid temple recommend, issued by the church, is a requirement that non-members do not possess, making such tours inaccessible to visitors.
What About Temple Square?
Thankfully, non-Mormons can still experience the Marvelous Mountain (as it's affectionately known), and its centerpiece, the Salt Lake Temple. Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake City is open to the public. This popular tourist attraction is accessible, and visitors can take a guided tour of the grounds, gardens, and historic buildings. Among these highlights is the almighty Salt Lake Temple, the largest and most iconic temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The tour of the grounds is free and typically lasts around 45 minutes.
Interactive Experiences and Visitor Center
Another enjoyable way for non-members to engage with the temple is through the visitor center at Temple Square. Interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations provide a wealth of information about the history and beliefs of the Church. These engaging features allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the Church's teachings and values in a respectful and enlightening manner.
Temple Open Houses
Non-members, especially those interested in visiting the temple, can look out for temple open houses. These occur after the construction of a new temple or following renovations. Open houses usually last for a month, allowing visitors to explore the temple before it is dedicated to the Lord. During this time, the temple is open to the public, and non-members can experience its grandeur and significance firsthand. Towards the end of the open house period, a special dedication service takes place, after which the temple is closed again, and only members with a current temple recommend can enter.
Understanding the Sacredness of the Temple
To fully grasp the restrictions and access, one must understand the significance of the temple. Once dedicated, the temple is considered a sacred place where the presence of God dwells. It is the House of the Lord. The same reverence and care that the priests of the Levitical tribe once showed to the portable tabernacle have been maintained in modern-day temple practices. Only members of the Church, who have been vetted by their ecclesiastical leaders, are allowed inside, ensuring the temple remains a pure and sacred space.
From the free guided tours of Temple Square to the rare chance of an open house, there are multiple avenues for non-Mormons to connect with and appreciate the Salt Lake Temple. Each visit offers a unique glimpse into the rich history and faith of this community.