More than 340,000 visitors attended the iconic Washington D.C. Temple Open House in close proximity to other grand historical monuments in the nation’s capital. On any given day during the eight week temple open house (including the pre-tour), visitors came amid a range of ever-changing weather conditions including blistering heat, humidity, severe thunderstorms and various weather alerts, an ongoing pandemic and other possible health challenges, traffic, and likely juggling work, school or home responsibilities. Hundreds of thousands made time to visit this temple open house. Why did they come, and what impressions did they walk away with?
Why visitors came to the D.C. Temple Open House in their own words:
• I was sad I missed the first open house in 1974 and was thrilled to learn there would be another open house now.
• I visited the temple for the first time 48 years ago and wanted to bring my family.
• I was curious to go inside.
• I would love to go inside the temple.
• [It’s] such a gorgeous place, Have always wanted to go inside.
• The temple is so beautiful.
Visitors’ impressions of the D.C. Temple Open House in their own words:
• I liked that everyone wears white clothing [in the temple].
• I liked the painting of Jesus smiling [in the temple].
• The Celestial Room was my favorite part.
• I loved the mirrors [in the sealing rooms] that showed infinity.
• I love the thought of eternal marriage. It brings peace when a spouse dies.
• Even though our family doesn’t always get along, I’m comforted by the thought of eternal families.
• How do I learn more about my ancestors?
• Everyone was so nice and answered all my questions.
• I liked the picture of God and all the angels [in the temple].
• Thank you for opening your temple to us.
• I want to learn more [about the temple].
• This was the best experience of my life.
• I don’t want to leave [the temple].
• Is this all true?
On a given day, some 110 volunteers, divided among two 7.5 hour shifts, were on-hand in various locations to direct visitors, answer a range of questions and help visitors feel the Lord’s individual love for them. Sometimes an in-depth question meant both the the visitor and temple volunteer would need to step aside to not interrupt the flow of the tour. The Washington D.C. Temple has six floors for touring and is the third largest temple in the Church. Surely it was a labor of love for these volunteers serving 7.5 hour shifts with some working outside in all kinds of weather with no compensation. This service provided visitors an introduction to unique, eternal blessings found only in temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This volunteer service was in and of itself an expression of the very Law of Consecration taught in one of the instruction rooms in the temple. For consecration is part of the process of becoming holy—or growing in “HOLINESS TO THE LORD”—sacred words found on Latter-day Saint temples.
When there is a temple open house anywhere in the world, a vital take away for Church members and visitors alike is: “HOLINESS TO THE LORD.” Jesus Christ is holy. His house is holy. He invites all mankind to be holy so we can behold His presence at His prophesied return. Just as “HOLINESS TO THE LORD” is engraved on Church temples, it too can be engraved on the hearts of our personal temples. “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? (1 Corinthians 3:16).
The foundational and essential path to holiness is through specific covenants: Baptismal Covenant and receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, the Endowment Covenant and the and Marriage Covenant for those who are able. These covenants connect us with the Godhead and one another in uplifting, unique, edifying, joyful and empowering ways. Many volunteers (including the author) experienced these special connections while at the D.C. Temple Open House. If not shared verbally, it was easy to spot on their countenances.
