Specifically the doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints regarding eternal marriage is that while men and women are on the earth they have the opportunity to be sealed together for time and all eternity in an eternal union. This ordinance is performed in our sacred temples. If an individual dies before having a chance to hear and understand the gospel and that doctrine, he or she will have the opportunity in the spirit world to hear it and understand it (see 1st Peter 3:18 & 19 & 1st Peter 4:6). Therefore, if they will accept the gospel in its fullness they will be sealed together vicariously by members of the church here on earth. That proxy of eternal marriage will be recognized by God and people will in fact be eternally married. After this opportunity will come the resurrection and the subsequently inheritance of our Fathers kingdom if we have lived righteous and worthy lives and done all that we were supposed to do to return to his presence. Therefore during the time of resurrection and thereafter there will be no marrying. That work will be done while those who have not participated in it wait in the spirit world for their time to be taught (see Matthew 16: 19, Matthew 18:18, & Ephesians 1: 3, 13).

You also asked for my opinion regarding what happens to people like Marie who have been married more than once and who will be her husband in heaven. First of all, I'm uncomfortable talking about such personal matters about my sister who I love. It's her life and I don't treat her unfortunate situation lightly. So briefly and without much detail I will state that Marie's first temple marriage and sealing was declared "a cancellation of sealing" which means that she is no longer sealed eternally to her first husband. Subsequently she met another man whom she has been married and sealed to in a temple. It's sad but because she is a celebrity, when they were having some difficulties at one point the press made a very big deal out of their "separation". I'm happy that they didn't get divorced and are doing just great. They will be together throughout the eternities.

Sincerely,

Donny Osmond


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