Kirtland Temple Rules

I am giving the instruction to my fellow ordinance workers today in the Bountiful Temple. I am posting my thoughts here, though a couple things have been removed that would not be appropriate outside the temple. Only family and close Latter Day Saint friends can access the blog now as permissions have been removed.

"Early in 1836 a committee under the direction of the Prophet came up with nine rules for the operation of the Kirtland Temple and to describe appropriate behavior of all those who entered therein.

Among them were the following:

No going up the stairs during worship. No marring the house or furniture with knife or pencil. No children playing in the rooms. Speakers were not to be interrupted by laughing, whispering or by menacing gestures. The presiding officers were not to be insulted. Decorum had to be perfect for the saints to receive the outpouring of heaven. From Richard Bushman, 'Rough Stone Rolling.'

For our instruction today I would like to amplify upon this last statement about decorum. Remember brethren who it is we serve.

Let us not be hasty or respond by rote memorization as we work at our assignments today.

Focus on your tasks and put away thoughts of other things as you prepare. How often we have brethren assigned and they forget their assignment perhaps due to thoughts being focused elsewhere. Let’s do our best to maintain decorum so the Saints can receive 'their outpouring of Heaven' and we can be guided by the Spirit in all we do. More than a few of have felt the spirit perhaps of the deceased for whom the work is being done. The patron senses it as well as tears of happiness have flowed on both sides.

Thank you for your service, your flexibility and support. Saturday nights can be challenging at times with not enough workers and sessions that can jump from 12 to 112. Thank you Brother Norman for your support, service and excellence you brought to your assignment and to all of us.

The Lord bless us all in our desires to serve Him I ask in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen"

Brother Norman has been my assistant for the last four months and he has been a delight and pleasure to work with. He is being replaced today.