“Tips for Your First Temple Trip,” Friend, November 2024, 38–39.
Tips for Your First Temple Trip
In the temple, you can be baptized and confirmed for people who died without the gospel. Those people will have the chance to make a covenant with God and receive His blessings, just like you did when you were baptized and confirmed.
What to Bring
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Church clothes (wear them to the temple)
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Temple recommend
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Hairbrush and hair tie (if needed)
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Family names printed from the FamilySearch app or website (optional)
What to Do
1. Enter the Temple
Show your recommend at the front desk. Then you can go to the baptistry. A temple worker will give you white underwear, socks, and a baptism jumpsuit.
2. Change Your Clothes
In the dressing room, change into the clothes you were given. Put your things into an empty locker. Then lock your locker and pin the key to your jumpsuit. If you have long hair, tie it back. Keep your printed family names with you.
3. Wait Reverently
While you wait for your turn to be baptized, you can read the scriptures, pray, or ponder. You can also think about the people you will be baptized for.
4. Participate in Temple Baptisms
When it’s your turn, give your family names to the person at the desk. If you don’t have names, they will use temple names instead. Step carefully into the font, where a priesthood holder will baptize you for each person. Remember to bend your knees and plug your nose as he lowers you into the water.
5. Change Back into Your Clothes
After you’re done, someone will give you a towel. Back in the dressing room, you can shower in private, change back into your dry clothes, and do your hair. Be sure to put your wet clothes in the bin and leave your locker key in the lock.
6. Participate in Confirmations
Last, someone will lead you to a room where you’ll be confirmed for those who were baptized.
Some temples may do things a little differently. But no matter what, there will be people to help you every step of the way. Remember, the temple is the Lord’s house, and He is happy to have you there!
Illustrations by Mark Robison