Since the Church began reopening temples in May 2020, 150 of the 168 dedicated temples have either already entered Phase 3 or will enter this phase in the coming days.
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Phase 3 includes everything allowed in Phase 1 (open for living husband–wife sealings and marriages by appointment) and Phase 2 (open for sealings and all other living ordinances by appointment), with the addition of temple work on behalf of deceased individuals, by appointment.
Essentially, Phase 3 means the temple is open for all living and limited proxy ordinances by appointment.
What to Expect in Phase 3
Phase 3 will feature smaller numbers of both patrons and temple workers, a limited temple schedule, and attendance by appointment only.
To prepare for a visit to a temple in Phase 3, Church members should note the following information:
- Online appointment scheduling: Those who live within the district boundaries of a temple in Phase 3 can schedule ordinance reservations online at the temple’s information page at temples.ChurchofJesusChrist.org. This new online option is available only for temples in Phase 3. Church members should make an online reservation before arriving at the temple. Priority in scheduling will be given to those who need living ordinances.
- “We are excited for patrons to begin using a new online tool to make reservations for ordinances,” Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles told Newsroom. “If you find that you need help making your appointment, reach out to your ministering brother or sister, a friend, a family member, or a local leader. He or she will be happy to assist you. Some areas will not immediately have the online tool available. However, appointments can still be made via email or a phone call to the temple.”
- Symptom screening: You will be asked three times about possible COVID-19 symptoms. These screenings will occur when you schedule the appointment, in an email before you attend the temple, and when you arrive at the temple.
- Face masks: Unless you are participating in baptisms, you must wear a face mask throughout your temple visit.
- Other safety precautions: Regular cleaning and sanitizing within the temple will occur throughout each day. Hand sanitizer stations will be found in many locations.
- Temple clothing: If possible, patrons should bring their own white and ceremonial clothing.
- Baptistry: Groups cannot be larger than 16 persons. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own officiators to the baptistry.
- Endowment: Seating in endowment sessions will be capped at 30 percent of room capacity. Seating will be physically distanced, and members of the same household will be seated together.
- Sealing: A small number of patrons will be allowed in sealings. Witnesses will be physically distanced from the sealing officiator.
- Family name cards: Temples will no longer print name cards for temple patrons. This must be done by a member before they come to the temple. Following the completion of an ordinance, the temple will record this information in FamilySearch. Name cards will not be returned to patrons.
- Housing and cafeteria: These services will likely remain closed. Patrons are invited to check with the temple in their district for more information.
“The temple is the house of the Lord, where holy ordinances are performed and sacred, meaningful worship takes place,” Elder Stevenson said. “As you faithfully adhere with happy, cheerful hearts to [these adjustments], you will be blessed, uplifted, and strengthened.”