Preparing for Temple Worship: Eligibility and Worthiness Standards

Understanding the spiritual and behavioral requirements for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to enter and participate in temple ordinances.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 8, 2026

Branched from LDS Temples Around the World: Current Locations and Recent Announcements

Quick take

Temple worship requires a current “temple recommend” for entry.
Obtaining a recommend involves two interviews with local church leaders.
Worthiness is assessed through personal questions about faith, conduct, and commitment.
The standards help ensure a sacred and reverent environment within the temple.

Preparing for temple worship is the process members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints undertake to ensure they are spiritually and behaviorally ready to enter and participate in sacred temple ordinances. This preparation culminates in obtaining a current temple recommend, which signifies a member’s eligibility and worthiness to enter the temple.

The Temple Recommend Interview Process

To receive a temple recommend, an adult member participates in two confidential interviews. The first is with their local bishop or branch president, and the second is with a member of their stake or mission presidency. Youth members (ages 11-18) also interview with their bishop for limited-use recommends, which allow them to participate in proxy baptisms.

These interviews serve to confirm a member’s personal worthiness and commitment to living the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. They are designed to be a spiritual conversation, helping individuals reflect on their spiritual standing and readiness to make and keep sacred covenants.

Key Worthiness Questions

During these interviews, leaders ask a series of questions covering various aspects of gospel living. While the specific wording is not publicly shared to maintain the sacred nature of the process, the questions generally pertain to a member’s faith in God the Father and Jesus Christ, their commitment to following commandments, their honesty, tithing payments, observance of the Word of Wisdom (health code), chastity, and support for church leaders. They also address whether an individual has any serious unresolved transgressions.

The Purpose of the Questions

The questions are not a test to pass or fail, but an opportunity for self-reflection and a declaration of personal commitment.
They help ensure that all who enter the temple are prepared to participate in sacred ordinances with reverence and understanding.
This process is a safeguard, protecting the sanctity of the temple and the profound covenants made within its walls.

These standards matter because temples are considered the most sacred places on earth for members of the Church. Maintaining high standards of eligibility ensures that those who enter are spiritually prepared to make solemn covenants with God, participate in eternal ordinances, and feel the sacred spirit of the temple. It fosters an environment of reverence, commitment, and spiritual focus, allowing individuals to draw closer to God and experience profound personal growth.

How often do I need to renew my temple recommend?

Adult temple recommends are typically valid for two years, requiring renewal interviews with local leaders. Limited-use recommends for youth are renewed annually.

Can non-members visit a temple?

Yes, non-members are welcome to visit the temple grounds and visitors’ centers, and to attend public open houses for newly constructed or renovated temples. However, entry into the temple for sacred ordinances is reserved for worthy, endowed members with a current temple recommend.

What if I don't feel worthy to enter the temple?

If you feel you are not currently worthy, or have questions about specific worthiness standards, it is encouraged to speak confidentially with your bishop or branch president. They can provide guidance, support, and help you understand the principles of repentance and preparation necessary to become worthy.

Are the worthiness standards different for youth?

While the core principles of worthiness are the same, the specific questions asked of youth for a limited-use recommend are tailored to their age and understanding, focusing on their commitment to gospel principles relevant to their stage of life.

Sources

General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, “Temple Recommends” section
ChurchofJesusChrist.org, “Temples” section