Question
Gramps,
When a baby dies in utero, does this unborn baby get another chance to be born or will the parents be able to raise the child in the hereafter?
Gwen
Answer
Gwen,
The question of what happens to unborn babies and whether they have another chance to be born or if parents can raise them in the hereafter is a deeply emotional and sensitive topic. Within the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there is a profound sense of hope and comfort surrounding this issue.
One of the foundational beliefs in Latter-day Saint doctrine is the eternal nature of the spirit. According to the teachings of the Church, every human being has a pre-mortal existence as a spirit. This belief underscores the idea that every child, regardless of their earthly experience, has a spirit that existed before birth. In the words of Elder Bruce R. McConkie, “The body of man enters upon its career as a tiny germ or embryo, which becomes an infant, quickened at a certain stage by the spirit whose tabernacle it is” (McConkie, B. R. (1984). *Mormon Doctrine*. Salt Lake City, UT: Bookcraft.)
The understanding that spirits exist before birth provides solace to parents who may have lost a child through stillbirth, miscarriage, or abortion. These children are believed to be children of God, and their spirits continue to exist in a realm beyond this earthly life. This belief affirms that even though a child may not have had the opportunity to experience life on earth, they still possess an eternal essence.
A central tenet of Latter-day Saint theology is the belief in resurrection. The Church teaches that all children who die before reaching the age of accountability, which is considered to be eight years old, are saved in the celestial kingdom of heaven. This includes those who are stillborn or miscarried. President Joseph F. Smith articulated this comforting doctrine, stating that these children would be resurrected as children and that parents would have the joy of nurturing them in the afterlife. (Taken from the Liahona, article by Mark A. Matthews)
The belief in resurrection offers hope that these precious spirits will not be lost but will instead be restored to their perfect state. The doctrine emphasizes that the resurrection is made possible through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, which encompasses all individuals, including innocent children. As stated in the Book of Mormon, “the blood of Christ atoneth for little children.” (Mosiah 3:16) This assurance provides immense comfort to grieving parents, reinforcing the idea that they will one day be reunited with their beloved children.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides valuable guidance for parents who experience the loss of a child. The General Handbook states that “the loss of a child before birth is an event requiring emotional and spiritual support for grieving parents” (Section 38.7.3). This acknowledgment of the profound grief that accompanies such a loss is essential for providing comfort and healing.
While temple ordinances are not performed for stillborn children, the Church emphasizes that this does not imply any loss of eternal blessings or family unity. Parents are encouraged to hold memorial services or record the names of their stillborn children in family records, allowing them to honor their memories and acknowledge their eternal existence.
Moreover, Church leaders have expressed hope and assurance that all children who die before the age of accountability are saved and will be able to live with their families in the hereafter. This belief is echoed in personal testimonies shared by members of the Church, such as Melinda E. Jennings, who recounted her experience with stillbirth and the peace she found in trusting the Lord’s plan for her child.
The teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provide a hopeful perspective regarding the fate of unborn babies. The doctrine emphasizes that every child, regardless of their earthly experience, is cherished and has a place in the eternal plan of salvation. For grieving parents, these beliefs serve as a beacon of hope during dark times.
The emotional and spiritual support offered by the Church extends not only to parents but also to families as a whole. The understanding that these children will be resurrected and reunited with their families fosters a sense of connection and continuity, reinforcing the belief that family bonds transcend mortality.
In conclusion, the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints affirm the eternal nature of spirits, the hope of resurrection, and the comfort provided to families grieving the loss of an unborn child. While specific details about the timing and circumstances of resurrection may not be fully revealed, the overarching message is one of love, hope, and the promise of eternal families. This doctrine offers solace to those who have faced the heartbreaking loss of an unborn child, affirming the belief that these precious spirits will indeed have a place in the eternal plan of salvation.
Gramps
