Mormon Apostles Invite Reporters to Tour Draper Temple
Friday, January 9th, 2009
Elder Ballard and Elder Cook, two apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (sometimes referred to as the “Mormon” Church), provided a tour of the new Draper Temple to four national reporters. Harold Berkes, of NPR, was one of the invited reporters (listen here).
The reporters met for dinner, overlooking the Capitol, and engaged the apostles in matters of politics, image, and faith.
Then, dispelling the perception that Mormons or temples are secretive, the Mormon leaders stood with reporters in the baptistry area and sealing rooms of the yet undedicated temple, listening to beliefs about the purpose of the ordinances and the House of the Lord. These 129 temples worldwide are sacred places, but not secret places, the leaders explained. Once the temple is dedicated, “it becomes the House of the Lord,” mentioned Elder Ballard.
In terms of baptisms for the dead, “this baptism is not binding” on those for whom it is performed, remarked Elder Cook, but those who gave gone before us have their agency to accept or reject this gift. Reporters stood outside the celestial room, witnessing the symbolic glory of heaven and the illustrious chandelier that appears in its center.
“We want to be on the front end” of the conversation, remarked Elder Ballard, when it comes to those who sincerely want to know about our faith.
For answers to questions about the Mormon faith, ask a Mormon! Visit the Church’s official website at lds.org or mormon.org, or visit mormonsbelieve.org, or youtube.com/moregoodfoundation.
