Question
Dear Gramps,
What happens if a man and woman are sealed in the temple and live worthily, but then the husband dies young? The young wife requests and gets a sealing cancellation so that she can be sealed to another (living) man. What happens to the poor first husband? Has he just lost his exaltation through no fault of his own?
Thanks,
Stephen
Answer
Hi Stephen,
This is a question that we currently do not have any clarified doctrinal statement regarding the husband who died while both were still young. We do have doctrine and potential truths that highlight the following:
1) An all knowing Father in heaven, “But behold, all things have been done in the wisdom of him who knoweth all things.” We may not have a specific doctrine but we do know we have a loving Father in heaven who is already aware and already has a plan for this.
2) God is perfectly just. It would not be just for this young man to lose his exaltation over this type of decision. We know we have had many, many brothers and sisters who have died before they were married. It is currently understood, that most likely during the millennial reign these individuals will have an opportunity to meet and be sealed.
3) This question can be asked also for those who are single, never married. They are different but in the same position. Here are words from our current prophet, President Russell M. Nelson (although shared as an Elder not as President of the Church):
“But what of the many mature members of the Church who are not married? Through no failing of their own, they deal with the trials of life alone. Be we all reminded that, in the Lord’s own way and time, no blessings will be withheld from His faithful Saints. The Lord will judge and reward each individual according to heartfelt desire as well as deed.”
As the prophet, President Russell M. Nelson shared this also:
“We live in a glorious age, foreseen by prophets for centuries. This is the dispensation when no spiritual blessing will be withheld from the righteous. Despite the world’s commotion, the Lord would have us look forward to the future “with joyful anticipation.” Let us not spin our wheels in the memories of yesterday. The gathering of Israel moves forward. The Lord Jesus Christ directs the affairs of His Church, and it will achieve its divine objectives.”
This is one of those questions that will be worked out by a perfect and loving Father in heaven according to his mercy, grace, and bounteous love for all his children.
Gramps
