If you’ve heard the term “sealing room” in connection with a Latter-day Saint temple, you may wonder what happens there and why these rooms are important. A sealing room is a sacred space in a temple where couples and families participate in ordinances that, according to Latter-day Saint belief, can unite them for eternity.
What Is a Temple Sealing?
Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are regarded as houses of the Lord where members make sacred covenants and participate in ordinances intended to draw them closer to God and Jesus Christ.
A temple sealing is an ordinance that uses what Latter-day Saints call the sealing power. This authority is understood to have the power to bind relationships on earth and in heaven.
This concept is connected to Jesus Christ’s teaching in Matthew 16:19:
“Whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven.”
In a sealing, a husband and wife are united for eternity rather than only for mortal life. Children born or adopted into a sealed family can also be sealed to their parents, forming an eternal family relationship according to Latter-day Saint belief.
What Happens in a Sealing Room?
Each temple contains rooms designed for specific purposes. A sealing room is specifically designed for couples, families, and witnesses to participate in or observe sealing ordinances.
The room is typically arranged around an altar at its center. The couple or family gathers around the altar while an authorized sealer performs the ordinance.
Other people may be present as witnesses and guests. A designated person may also record the ordinance and verify that it is performed according to the required procedures.
The Symbolism of the Altar
The altar is one of the central features of a sealing room. Throughout scripture, altars are associated with sacrifice, worship, and offerings to God.
For Latter-day Saints, the altar can also point to Jesus Christ and His Atonement. His sacrifice is understood as the foundation that makes salvation and eternal family relationships possible.
Why Are There Two Mirrors?
Many sealing rooms contain two large mirrors positioned opposite one another. When viewed from the altar, the mirrors create a seemingly endless reflection.
This visual effect is commonly used as a symbol of eternity. The repeating reflections can remind participants of the idea that a family sealed together can continue beyond mortal life, with no apparent beginning or end.
Light as a Symbol of Jesus Christ
Light is another important feature of sealing rooms. Beautiful light fixtures and, in some temples, windows or stained glass help create a bright and peaceful environment.
This design can point participants toward Jesus Christ, who taught, “I am the light of the world.” The symbolism reinforces the idea that Christ is central to the covenants and ordinances performed in the temple.
Who Is in a Sealing Room?
A sealing room can include several people serving different roles. These may include:
- The sealer: An authorized priesthood holder who performs the sealing ordinance.
- Witnesses: Individuals who witness the ordinance and its proper performance.
- A recorder: A person who records the ordinance and helps ensure that the required procedures are followed.
- Family and friends: Guests may attend to support and witness the sealing of a couple or family.
Why Is a Sealing Room Important?
For Latter-day Saints, the significance of a sealing room goes beyond its beautiful design. It represents the belief that family relationships can continue beyond death through Jesus Christ and the sealing power.
The symbolism found throughout the room—the altar, mirrors, and light—helps focus attention on sacrifice, eternity, and Christ.
A sealing room is therefore more than a beautiful room in a temple. It is a sacred setting where Latter-day Saints participate in ordinances centered on Jesus Christ, covenants, and the hope of eternal family relationships.
