Question
Dear Gramps,
I have a friend who grew up as a member of the LDS church and served a mission and then went on to be sealed in the temple. Unfortunately this friend chose to live a life not in accordance with the teachings of the gospel. He is now divorced and is no longer active in the church. I was speaking to one of our mutual friends about our other friend and I was just asking about his life and what not and my friend told me that our other friend has been released from his temple covenants. I was wondering if this happens very often and what the process is.
Thanks Gramps,
Orville
Answer
Orville,
The term “being released from temple covenants” is rather creative. The only thing I can think of is that he has been excommunicated from the church. That sounds like the only way a member who has received temple ordinances and blessings can be “released” from them. When this happens, a previously endowed member is to no longer wear their temple garments.
The only other way to do it, is to “voluntarily” release yourself from your covenants. You stop wearing your garments, attending your church meetings and doing anything remotely spiritual. In this case, you are “rejecting” your temple covenants, not necessarily have been “released” from them.
I hope this helps.
