What LDS Ordinances Do Mormons Perform?

Question: What LDS Ordinances Do Mormons Perform?

Answer: In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sacred ordinances are performed by the proper priesthood authority. There are two types of LDS ordinances: saving ordinances; other ordinances.

There are six LDS ordinances which are necessary for our exaltation. These saving ordinances are also received in a specific order.


Six Saving Ordinances:

1. baptism
2. confirmation and receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost
3. receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood (for men)
4. washing and anointing (initiatory)
5. endowment
6. marriage sealing

These saving ordinances are performed for the living as well as for the dead. The first three LDS ordinances are not performed in a temple for the living¹ but the last three are, while all six saving ordinances are performed in a temple for the dead. When we perform one of these LDS ordinances we are also entering into a covenant with God.

Other LDS Ordinances:

• naming and blessing of children
• administering the sacrament
• consecrating oil
• administering to the sick and afflicted
• dedicating a home
• dedicating a grave
• administering father's blessings and blessings of comfort
• administering patriarchal blessings

These other LDS ordinances, while not essential to our salvation, are still important because they can bring us comfort, direction, guidance, and encouragement.

Notes:
¹ On very rare occasions the LDS ordinances of baptism, confirmation, and receiving the priesthood have also been performed for the living in a temple. This practice was more common in the history of the Church.