Do All Latter-day Saint LDS Temples Have Pews?

When discussing religious buildings, it is crucial to differentiate between a meetinghouse and a temple. Both serve important roles in the Latter-day Saint (LDS) faith, but they are distinctly different in purpose and the nature of their worship spaces. Understanding these differences can help clarify whether all LDS temples have pews and what types of seating are typically found in these sacred places.

Meetinghouses vs. Temples: Understanding the Distinction

It's not uncommon to hear people confuse a meetinghouse with a temple. A meetinghouse is a place where members of the Mormon faith gather for regular church meetings, sunday school classes, and other community events. These buildings are typically smaller and more accessible, often found in residential areas or suburban neighborhoods. Conversely, a temple is a more solemn and sacred space where members perform special religious ordinances and participate in unique rituals.

Almost every meetinghouse, especially those in typical areas, contains pews in the chapel. Pews are designed to accommodate families, allowing them to sit together during meetings and activities. This seating arrangement fosters a sense of community and encourages family unity. If you visit a Latter-day Saint meetinghouse on a Sunday, you'll likely see people filling these pews, with room available for anyone wishing to attend.

Temples and Their Unique Seating Arrangements

While the meetinghouse chapel is designed for congregational use, the interior of a temple often features a different kind of seating arrangement. The seats in temples are typically theatre-style, designed to accommodate and enhance the solemnity and reverence of the sacred space. These seats are often flexible and can be reconfigured to suit various types of ceremonies and activities.

It's important to note that not all temples lack pews. Some temples incorporate pews in specific areas, such as chapels where small meetings or waiting areas can be held. For example, the Salt Lake Temple underwent an extensive renovation and now includes theater-style seating in several rooms, including one that serves as an instruction room.

Specific Examples and Understanding

Consider the Salt Lake Temple, a prominent example of LDS temple architecture. During its renovation, the temple underwent significant changes to its seating arrangements. In some rooms, traditional pews were preserved, while in others, modern theater-style seating was installed. This approach allows the temple to maintain its historical character while also adapting to the needs of contemporary worship.

Another example can be seen in chapels within temples. These smaller spaces might have pews to accommodate brief gatherings and waiting periods. The design of these chapels is typically more modest and functional, serving as transitional spaces rather than the primary focus of the temple's activities.

Conclusion

While not all Latter-day Saint LDS temples have pews in every room, the presence of pews is far from uncommon. Meetinghouses and temples serve distinct purposes within the LDS faith, and their seating arrangements reflect these differences. Understanding these distinctions can help individuals appreciate the unique character and purpose of each religious space.

For individuals curious about visiting or learning more about LDS temples, resources are available through the LDS Church website. These resources can provide valuable insights into the history, architecture, and significance of these sacred places.