The next section in our Temple and Family History Work handbook is entitled “Temple Ordinances for the Dead.” In this segment, we begin to discuss the importance of doing temple work for our kindred dead.
Billions of people have lived on the earth since the dawn of time. Most of them passed to the other side without having the chance to hear the gospel, and some of them were your ancestors. As their descendants, it is our job to find them and submit their names to the temple so that they might have the opportunity to have their saving ordinances performed for them. As we do this, we can share the joy our ancestors feel as this precious chance is given to them. We also learn more about the Atonement of Jesus Christ by serving in the temple.
We are encouraged to serve in this capacity as an on-going mission throughout our lives. However, we shouldn’t try to do everything at once. If it’s not your time to invest hours in family history research, perhaps you can spend your time at the temple instead. For those who are physically unable to attend the temple but have access to a computer, perhaps research will be their forte. We should attempt all things in wisdom.
As you prepare names to submit, don’t try to decide if the person is worthy or if you think they will accept the work that is done for them. They can choose to reject the work, but every opportunity should be given them, and ours is not to judge.
We begin the work with three steps:
1. Identify your ancestors.
2. Find out which ancestors need ordinances performed.
3. See that the ordinances are performed.
The first part of step one is to prepare a pedigree chart and family group sheet. Fill in as much information as you can, starting with yourself. Usually this does not require much research skill – the most important tool you’ll have is the guidance of the Spirit.
If you need help locating these names, ask the family history consultants in your ward or stake. They can help you obtain these names.
If you haven’t yet found names that need work, you can help others in your ward perform their family names until you have some of your own. Attending the temple often is an important part of the process.
We should also teach our children the importance of attending the temple and explain why the ordinances are so crucial to our happiness. They should understand the importance of temple marriage and of the endowment. Prayers of thanks for the temple should be uttered in our homes.
As you prepare names for the temple and as you attend yourself, the Spirit of the Lord will be present in your life and you will be blessed for your service.
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