The practice of Mormon sealing is a sacred and deeply meaningful ritual within the Latter-day Saint faith. It is a ceremony that binds individuals and families together for eternity, and one of the most significant aspects of this sealing is the sealing of children to their parents.
What is a Mormon Sealing?
A Mormon sealing is a religious ordinance performed in Latter-day Saint temples that binds individuals and families together for eternity. It is believed that through this sealing, families can be together not just in this life, but also in the afterlife. This practice is rooted in the belief that families are eternal and that relationships formed on earth can continue beyond death. The concept of sealing has its roots in the early days of the Latter-day Saint Church, when founder Joseph Smith received revelations about the importance of eternal families.The first recorded sealing was performed in 1833, and since then, it has become an essential part of Mormon doctrine and practice.
The Importance of Sealing Children to Parents
In Mormon theology, children are considered innocent and pure, and it is believed that they are born with a divine nature. However, they are also born into a fallen world and are subject to sin and temptation. Through the sealing ordinance, children are sealed to their parents, who act as their spiritual guardians and guides. This sealing not only binds children to their parents but also to their ancestors. It is believed that through this connection, children can receive blessings from their ancestors and continue their family line throughout eternity. Furthermore, the sealing of children to their parents is seen as a way to strengthen and preserve the family unit.In a world where families are often torn apart by divorce, death, or other circumstances, the sealing ordinance provides a sense of security and hope that families can be together forever.
The Process of Sealing Children to Parents
The sealing of children to their parents is typically performed in Latter-day Saint temples by a priesthood holder who has been authorized to perform this sacred ordinance. The ceremony involves anointing the child with oil and pronouncing a blessing upon them. The child is then sealed to their parents through the power of the priesthood. During the sealing, the parents make covenants with God to raise their child in righteousness and provide them with a loving and nurturing home. The child, in turn, promises to honor and obey their parents and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is important to note that the sealing of children to their parents does not guarantee salvation or exaltation.It is believed that individuals must still live according to God's commandments and strive to become more like Him in order to receive these blessings.
Controversies Surrounding Sealing Children to Parents
While the practice of sealing children to their parents is deeply cherished by Mormons, it has also been a source of controversy and criticism from those outside the faith. One of the main criticisms is that this practice goes against the concept of free will, as children are sealed to their parents without their consent. However, Mormons believe that this sealing is not binding until the child reaches the age of accountability, which is typically around eight years old. At this point, they are given the opportunity to choose for themselves whether they want to continue with the sealing or not. Another controversy surrounding the sealing of children to their parents is the belief that it can only be performed in Latter-day Saint temples. This has been seen as exclusionary and has caused some to question the fairness of this practice. However, Mormons believe that temples are sacred and holy places where ordinances such as sealing can be performed with the proper authority.They also believe that these ordinances are essential for eternal salvation and that everyone will have the opportunity to receive them, either in this life or in the next.
