Question
Gramps,
Answer
Natalie,
Sealing is an ordinance performed in the temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where a husband and wife are bound together for eternity. This ordinance is believed to be essential for attaining the highest degree of glory in the afterlife, known as the Celestial Kingdom. According to Doctrine and Covenants 132:19-20, those who are sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise will inherit thrones, kingdoms, and dominions, thus emphasizing the eternal nature of this covenant.
The sealing ordinance is unique in that it involves a third party—the Lord—who sanctifies the union. Unlike other ordinances, such as baptism, which are personal covenants between the individual and God, sealing requires the presence and approval of a spouse. This dynamic introduces complexities, especially when one partner is not a member of the Church or is unworthy of the sealing.
A critical aspect of sealing is the interplay between faith and agency. While the ordinance is essential for exaltation, individuals must also live by their covenants to receive the associated blessings. Gramps explained in a previous answer, “We are responsible for seeking out and living the ordinances and covenants of God as best as we can given our circumstances.” This means that even if one spouse is unworthy, the faithful partner can still seek the sealing ordinance for their blessings, trusting in God’s promises.
The sealing ordinance extends beyond the couple to their children, creating a familial bond that is believed to last beyond mortality. Children born to sealed parents are considered “born in the covenant,” which grants them specific blessings and privileges associated with the sealing. This eternal family structure is central to the theology of The Church, as emphasized by Elder L. Tom Perry, who stated, “The entire theology of our restored gospel centers on families and the new and everlasting covenant of marriage.”
For members of The Church who are married to non-member spouses, the question of sealing can be particularly challenging. As highlighted in the initial inquiry, some may wonder if they must be sealed to their non-member spouse to attain the Celestial Kingdom. The answer lies in understanding that while the sealing ordinance is crucial, it does not negate the individual’s relationship with God. I want to reassure you that “Christ will make it right for the other spouse” if one partner is unworthy. This perspective encourages members to focus on their faithfulness and the ordinances they can perform, rather than being overly concerned about their spouse’s status.
Divorce and annulment can complicate the sealing process. If a couple is sealed and later divorces, the sealing remains in effect unless it is canceled by the First Presidency of the Church. This means that the faithful spouse retains the blessings associated with the sealing, even if the other partner has broken their covenants. However, if a sealing is canceled, the individual blessings tied to that sealing are no longer in force. This can lead to feelings of uncertainty for those who have experienced divorce, but it is essential to remember that the Lord’s plan allows for healing and new beginnings.
One of the most comforting aspects of the sealing doctrine is the hope it offers for redemption. The Church teaches that even those who have not lived worthy lives can receive the blessings of the sealing ordinance through repentance and faith. I emphasize that “the Lord makes time for all his work to be accomplished,” suggesting that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. This belief encourages members to continue performing temple work for their deceased ancestors, trusting that their efforts may lead to eventual acceptance of the gospel in the afterlife.
Gramps
Related articles:
Must I be sealed to my deceased spouse to obtain the Celestial Kingdom?
If one doesn’t live worthily during life isn’t sealing them by proxy all a waste of time?
What is the significance of parents being sealed to children?
Finding Faith When an Eternal Marriage Ends
