The practice of genealogy, on the other hand, is not done for the personal gratification to find out if you come from some royal lineage somewhere, but rather to identify your ancestors who have never had the opportunity to hear and understand the gospel of Jesus Christ. After proper research has been done, the names of those who have passed on can then be submitted to one of our holy temples wherein sacred ordinances, such as baptism, are performed for and in behalf of those individuals.

This isn't a new concept. Baptism for those who have passed on was a common practice amongst the members of the church in Biblical times. Peter and Paul taught this. In 1 Corinthians 15:29 we read, "Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead if the dead rise not at all, why are they then baptized for the dead."

If that temple ordinance was not taking place during the ministry of Paul amongst members of the church, why is Paul asking them about it? We know from the Savior's own words, "Verily, verily I say unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the spirit he can not enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5).

We know from Peter's writings (1 Peter 3:18-19, 1 Peter 4:6) that after Christ was crucified and resurrected, he went to the spirit world to teach the gospel to those who never had the opportunity to hear it. Today, in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, that same doctrine is practiced for those who have passed on so they too can have those blessings that are offered to all of Heavenly Father's children, and not just a select few who were "lucky" enough to be living at a time when the gospel was preached on the earth.

You also asked the question of why can't a person who smokes or drinks enter the temple? You stated that Jesus invited the sinner into his home, and "Who are we to judge a person on personal worthiness to enter? This is Jesus' place."

If you believe that the temple is "Jesus' place" you must believe that he leads and guides the leadership of the church in the administrative matters of the church. The temple is in fact a holy place where sacred ordinances are performed. It is not a place to be made common by the casual or curious visits of others who are not prepared to participate in those temple ordinances. We have learned from prophets in these latter days that in order to be worthy to enter the temple, one must adhere to all of the tenants of the church, including the principle of tithing, living the "word of wisdom" which as you know includes abstinence from coffee, tea, tobacco, alcohol and harmful drugs as well as living a personally righteous life. Just as in days of old when Moses lead God's church amongst the Israelites, not all of the House of Israel was permitted to enter the sacred and holy temple, but only certain Levites who were living a higher law.

You mentioned in the conclusion of your letter that having lived in Utah for a year, you found the people to be kind and hospitable. I'm glad to hear that and I hope you'll never have any reason to feel otherwise. I hope all this is helpful to you.

Sincerely,

Donny Osmond


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