Understanding the Policy of the LDS Church on Selling Temples

There is a common misconception that the LDS Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) frequently sells its temples. However, this belief is far from the truth. In reality, the Church has sold only one temple in its history, and this was under special circumstances.

History of Temples and Sales

The only temple ever sold by the LDS Church was the Kirtland Temple. This sale occurred during one of the most turbulent times in the history of the Church. Tragically, in 1844, the founders of the Church, Joseph and Hyrum Smith, were assassinated. Following these events, against the backdrop of further persecution and violence, the Saints, or members of the Church, were driven from their homes. In response to this dire situation, the Church attempted to sell the Kirtland Temple to raise funds for the displaced Saints to travel west. This sale, however, did not materialize, and the temple eventually passed through various owners before being purchased by the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, now known as the Community of Christ.

The Naabro Temple Incident

The Naabro Temple presents another clear example of why the Church has never sold its temples. As the Saints moved west, the Naabro Temple, originally built by the early members of the Church, was unfortunately destroyed by both mob violence and a tornado. The temple was never rebuilt and has remained as a relic of the early challenges faced by the Church. Despite the tragic destruction of the temple, the Church has always maintained its integrity and dedication to its architecture, ensuring all remaining temples are preserved and protected.

The Church’s Current Stance

Today, the LDS Church has a strong policy of not selling its temples. While the Kirtland Temple’s sale was a historical anomaly under extraordinary circumstances, the Church’s overall stance is firmly rooted in its commitment to these sacred buildings. These temples serve as places of worship, prayer, and spiritual connection for millions of members across the globe. Selling these temples would be tantamount to selling the faith itself, which is anathema to the Church’s values and mission.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the LDS Church has never sold its temples on a policy level. The Kirtland Temple sale was a rare and exceptional event, and the Church has since zealously protected and preserved its temples. These sacred buildings are not only physical structures but also vital symbols of the faith and its enduring legacy.