Wearing Temple Garments: Guidelines and Practices for Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS)

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the LDS Church, has certain guidelines regarding the wearing of temple garments. While many members observe these practices, they are not mandatory. This article explores when and how members wear the garments, including during activities such as swimming and showering.

Guidelines for Wearing Temple Garments

Members of the LDS Church are encouraged to wear their temple garments when it is reasonable and practical to do so. However, they are not required to wear them at all times or in every situation. The goal is to maintain a level of modesty and personal commitment while ensuring the garments remain as an inner reminder of covenants. Here is a detailed look at when and how temple garments are typically worn.

General Guidelines

The guidance I received and many members follow, is that the garments should be worn whenever it is reasonably possible. This includes during sleep, as well as during activities such as working in the yard and exercising. The key guiding principle is that the garments should be worn as an inner reminder of covenants, not as outer clothing or as a form of display. They are meant to be worn under regular outer clothing as an inner reminder.

Activities and Wearing Practices

Sleeping: For many members, it is common to sleep in their temple garments. This is a personal choice and a way to maintain a constant reminder of covenants during rest. However, members can also remove the garments during sleep, especially if they find it more comfortable or if they are sleeping in a communal or less private setting.

Showering and Bathing: When taking a shower or bath, members typically remove their temple garments. However, the specific practices can vary. While some members remove the garments for personal hygiene, others may choose to sleep in them directly, fold them and place them on a chair, or even partially wear them to maintain a reminder of their covenants while still ensuring modesty.

Swimming: Many members do not wear their temple garments while swimming. The garments are designed to be worn beneath regular clothing, and swimming in them would be uncomfortable and impractical. Some members choose to wear a swimsuit or go nude when swimming. The goal is to maintain modesty and comfort. The garments are not designed to be displayed or worn publicly, as they are intended to be inner reminders of covenants.

Exercise: Some members wear their garments while exercising, while others may choose to take them off if it is more comfortable. The key is to wear them as an inner reminder when it is reasonable and practical to do so.

Special Considerations

Medical Examinations, Childbirth, Lactation, and Toileting: In situations that require removing outer clothing, such as medical examinations, childbirth, lactation, and toileting, members remove their temple garments. The garments are not made to withstand these conditions. It is expected that members will use common sense and ensure the garments are not altered to accommodate these activities.

Personal Agency and Commitment

Members have full personal agency in deciding whether to wear their temple garments and when to wear them. The garments are a symbol of personal commitment to God and are not forced upon anyone. Each member makes their own decisions based on their individual beliefs and practices.

Since my commitment to wear the garments around 45 years ago, I have slept in them at times. Many do, as it provides a constant reminder of their covenants throughout the day.

It is important to understand that while the guidelines exist, they are not strictly enforced, and members are encouraged to follow them in a way that feels comfortable and respectful to them. The focus is on living the faith and making personal covenants with God, rather than on strict compliance with the guidelines.