Celestial Marriage in The Christian LDS Church

The concept of celestial marriage, also known as eternal marriage, is a distinctive doctrine within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), commonly referred to as the Mormon Church. This teaching holds significant importance and is rooted in the unique beliefs and practices of the LDS faith.

Celestial marriage is considered a fundamental aspect of the Plan of Salvation as outlined in LDS theology. According to Mormon doctrine, the ultimate goal of human existence is to achieve exaltation, which involves becoming like God and dwelling in His presence. Central to this process is the concept of eternal families, and celestial marriage is viewed as an essential component in the eternal progression of individuals and families.

In the LDS Church, marriage is not perceived as a temporary or earthly covenant but rather as an eternal bond that extends beyond mortality. Celestial marriage is believed to be necessary for individuals to attain the highest degree of glory in the afterlife, which is the Celestial Kingdom. This Kingdom is considered the abode of God and the most desirable destination for faithful Mormons.

Key elements of celestial marriage in the LDS Church include:

Temple Marriage: Celestial marriages are solemnized in temples, which are considered sacred and distinct from regular meetinghouses. Temple ceremonies are believed to have eternal significance, and couples seeking celestial marriage must meet specific requirements and receive temple ordinances.

Sealing: The term "sealing" is used to describe the ceremony that binds a husband and wife together for time and eternity. It is believed that this sealing ordinance allows families to remain connected beyond death, and children born to a sealed couple are considered part of that eternal family unit.

Eternal Families: The LDS Church places a strong emphasis on the concept of eternal families. Celestial marriage is seen as the means by which families can remain together in the afterlife, fostering eternal relationships and progression.

Gender Roles: The LDS Church teaches distinct roles for men and women in celestial marriage, emphasizing partnership and collaboration. The idea is that husbands and wives work together in their eternal progression, with each contributing unique qualities and strengths.

It's important to note that celestial marriage is a distinctive belief of the LDS Church and is not universally accepted by other Christian denominations. While some principles, such as the eternal nature of marriage, may be shared across Christian faiths, the specific rituals and doctrines surrounding celestial marriage are unique to Mormon theology.