Security Measures and Guidelines in Latter-day Saint (Mormon) Temples

The safety and sanctity of Latter-day Saint (Mormon) temples are of utmost importance. Unlike many public or private spaces, these sacred buildings do not have traditional bouncers. Instead, they have a structured system of security personnel whose primary role is to ensure the environment remains peaceful and respectful for all worshippers.

Access and Security Requirements

Entry into a Latter-day Saint temple is restricted to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (referred to as members of the Church) who meet specific worthy requirements. These requirements can include maintaining a good standing within the church community, which often involves regular church attendance and adherence to certain ethical standards.

Members enter the temple with a temple recommend, a card issued by local church leaders confirming their worthiness to enter the temple. This card is akin to an invitation to a sacred space where important church ordinances and rituals take place.

Security Personnel and Their Responsibilities

Temples are staffed with security personnel who focus on maintaining the sanctity of the space. Their primary duties include ensuring that ordinances are not disrupted, patrons are not harassed, robbed, or assaulted, and that the parking lots remain safe. In the event of a crime, they alert the police rather than attempting to stop the crime themselves.

Security personnel are also prepared to deal with emergencies. They provide basic first aid, assist in evacuating the temple during emergencies, and keep patients during medical emergencies. The temple keeps a sick room, first aid supplies, a defibrillator, and has provisions to accommodate the needs of diabetics, such as fresh orange juice and candy.

Common Misconceptions About Temple Security

There are some amusing and humorous misconceptions about the security measures in Mormon temples, often fueled by anecdotes or misunderstandings. For instance, one story involves a visitor, myself, who was escorted by security personnel after twisting an ankle in the temple. Securing an area that is often mistaken for a place to be “bouncer-checked” can be quite humorous to some, as I once had to be escorted out of the St. George temple on the day it reopened.

To clarify these misconceptions, it's important to note that while some temples may occasionally hire security personnel with backgrounds in physically demanding roles, such as off-duty wrestlers or NFL line-backers, they do not operate or present themselves as a typical nightclub or bar. Security is there to protect the sacred space and ensure all worshippers can participate in important rituals without disruption or interference.

In reality, security personnel in Mormon temples are more like guardians sworn to protect a holy space. Their demeanor and appearance might be seen as quite different from those of a bouncer in a typical nightclub, often dressed in formal attire rather than the more informal uniforms of a bouncer. Instead of intimidating gestures, their job is to provide a safe and peaceful environment for all worshippers.

Conclusion

Mormon temples are protected by a dedicated team of security personnel who ensure that the space remains sacred and secure. Though they do not function as traditional bouncers, their role is equally vital in maintaining the integrity of the temple environment. Understanding the true nature of their duties helps clear up any misconceptions and highlights the harmonious balance between security and the spiritual atmosphere of these sacred spaces.