Understanding Sealing in the Mormon Church
Being sealed in the Mormon Church, also known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), refers to a sacred ordinance that binds individuals together for eternity. Unlike traditional marriage, which many believe lasts until death, a sealing is believed to extend that bond into the afterlife, signifying a commitment that transcends mortal life.
The Purpose of Sealing
The core purpose of sealing is to create eternal family units. In Mormon theology, families are central to God’s plan, and the sealing ordinance is a means of ensuring that relationships can continue beyond this life.
- Spiritual Continuity: Sealing provides a promise that relationships will endure through the eternities, allowing families to be reunited in heaven.
- Divine Authority: Only those with proper church authority can perform sealing ceremonies, which are believed to carry divine power.
- Symbolic Representation: The sealing also symbolizes the covenant between spouses to live according to God’s commandments and support one another spiritually.
The Ordinance of Sealing
The sealing ceremony itself is typically held in a temple, considered a holy space by members of the LDS Church. While the details may vary, several common elements exist:
- Preparation: Couples often participate in a period of spiritual preparation leading up to the sealing.
- The Ceremony: The sealing is officiated by a member of the church’s leadership, often a bishop or temple president.
- Promises Made: Couples make vows similar to those in traditional weddings but focused on the eternal nature of their commitment.
Case Studies: Experiences of Sealed Couples
Many Mormons regard their sealing as a defining moment in their spiritual journey. For instance, Sarah and James, a couple from Utah, shared their experience.
“Getting sealed was more than a wedding for us; it was like we were making an eternal commitment. Even when challenges arise, we take comfort knowing there’s a higher purpose to our relationship,” Sarah commented.
Contrarily, Joey and Anna’s experience highlighted the emotional weight of sealing when faced with loss. Upon the death of their son, they found solace in the belief that they would be reunited in the afterlife.
“The sealing gave us hope during our darkest days. It’s hard to describe the comfort it brings—knowing that our family will be together forever,” Joey explained.
Statistics and Facts About Sealing
According to recent surveys among active members of the LDS Church:
- About 80% of married members are sealed together in the temple.
- Over 1.5 million sealings are performed annually across about 160 operating temples worldwide.
- Approximately 15% of sealings are extensions or re-sealings due to marriage changes or temple ordinances.
The Role of Family History in Sealing
The Church encourages members to perform sealing ordinances not only for living relatives but also for ancestors. This practice of family history work enables church members to ensure that their forebears have access to eternal family ties.
- Baptisms for the Dead: This process allows living members to be baptized on behalf of deceased individuals, followed by sealing them to their families.
- Genealogical Research: Many members engage in extensive genealogical research to identify and connect with ancestors who have not yet been sealed.
Controversies Surrounding Sealing
While many members view the sealing teachings as a profound blessing, some outside the faith criticize the practice, arguing that it may create emotional burdens for those who struggle with entrenched family dynamics or loss.
- Pressure to Marry: Critics argue that there is an implied pressure to marry and be sealed, impacting the personal choices of young adults.
- Response to Loss: There can be emotional difficulty for those who lose sealed loved ones, often feeling isolated in their grief.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sealing in the Mormon Church is a pivotal element of the faith, symbolizing eternal family bonds and divine commitments. It creates a framework for spiritual security and hope for millions, while also inviting conversation about personal beliefs, family dynamics, and the emotional implications of such sacred ordinances. For Latter-day Saints, being sealed transforms the understanding of family, loyalty, and love across generations, reinforcing their enduring belief in the importance of families in God’s eternal plan.
