Doctrinal Study
Ordinances
Overview
In the Church, an ordinance is a sacred, formal act or ceremony performed by the authority of the priesthood. Some ordinances are essential to our exaltation. They include baptism, confirmation, ordination to the Melchizedek Priesthood (for men), the temple endowment, and the marriage sealing. With each of these ordinances, we enter into solemn covenants with the Lord.
Other ordinances, such as naming and blessing children, consecrating oil, and administering to the sick and afflicted, are also performed by priesthood authority. While they are not essential to our salvation, they are important for our comfort, guidance, and encouragement.
Ordinances and covenants help us remember who we are. They remind us of our duty to God. The Lord has provided them to help us come unto Him and receive eternal life. When we honor them, He strengthens us spiritually.
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Related Topics
Scriptures
Scripture References
Scripture Study Resources
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Topical Guide, “Ordinance,” “Performance”
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Guide to the Scriptures, “Ordinances,” “Salvation for the Dead,” “Seal, Sealing”
Messages from Church Leaders
Videos
“Covenants and Ordinances”
“Ordinances and Covenants—The Spirit of Elijah”
Learning Resources
General Resources
“Priesthood Ordinances and Blessings,” Handbook 2, 20
“Temples,” ComeUntoChrist.org
Church Magazines
Jennifer Maddy, “Priesthood Ordinances and Temple Work Bless My Family,” Liahona, June 2014
David L. Buckner, “Preparing for Priesthood Ordinances,” Ensign, January 2014
Jan Pinborough, “Juliana’s First Temple Visit,” Friend, October 2012
“Understanding Our Covenants with God,” Ensign or Liahona, July 2012
Ana Maria Coburn and Cristina Franco, “The First Principles and Ordinances of the Gospel Make It Possible for Me to Live with God Again,” Friend, June 2011
“Article of Faith 4,” Friend, April 2011
Elias Magabo, “Hope in the Ordinances of the Gospel,” Ensign or Liahona, September 2010
“Temple Ordinances and Blessings,” New Era, July 2009
Amie Jane Leavitt, “Prayers and Ordinances,” Friend, September 2008
“Rejoice in the Restoration of Temple Ordinances and Covenants,” Ensign or Liahona, June 2005
Richard E. Bennett, “Carefully Schooled in the First Principles and Ordinances,” Ensign, March 2001
“Temple Ordinances,” Friend, August 1997
Judy Edwards, “Sharing Time: Temples and Ordinances,” Liahona, March 1993
“Life Is Eternal,” Ensign, September 1989
Study Manuals
In the News
“Family History Work Is about People,” Church News
“Temple Ordinances Reflect Savior’s Atonement, Speaker Says,” Church News
“First Presidency Issues Direction on Names Submitted for Temple Ordinances,” Newsroom
“Baptism for the Dead,” Newsroom
“Ordinance,” Newsroom
“‘On Faith’ Blog: Mormon Temples Are Places Apart,” Newsroom
“Plan of Salvation,” Newsroom
“Articles of Faith,” Newsroom
Teachings of Presidents of the Church
Teaching Resources
Stories and Activities for Teaching Children
“Ordinances,” Lesson Helps for Teaching Children
Media
Audio
“The Saints in Nauvoo,” Scripture Stories—Doctrine and Covenants Stories, episode 35
“Gospel,” Stories from General Conference, episode 2
“Priesthood Power—Part 2,” Stories from General Conference, episode 27