Sacrament Meeting Talk: How Regular Time in the Temple Strengthens Faith in Jesus Christ

Sacrament Meeting Talk: How Regular Time in the Temple Strengthens Faith in Jesus Christ

Brothers and sisters, I am grateful for the chance to share a few thoughts today on how regular temple attendance strengthens our faith in Jesus Christ. As I’ve reflected on my experiences over the last several years, I’ve realized that the temple has been one of the most consistent sources of strength, growth, and quiet confidence in my discipleship. I want to share two personal stories that taught me this in different but deeply connected ways.

The Celebration Day

In 2016, construction on the Fort Collins temple was well underway when I received an email from George Rhodes, a member of the Seventy overseeing the Open House and Dedication, asking me to join the Cultural Celebration Subcommittee. Our task was to develop a theme, write a script, and organize the details for a performance involving 15 stakes and nearly 4,000 youth.

I forwarded the email to Rusty with, “Is this real? How do you think I got picked?” He replied, “It’s probably real—if it’s fake, it’s a pretty boring joke.”

The months that followed were hard. We lost a dear friend suddenly that spring, and I was overwhelmed with grief. I asked to be released, but President Jones reminded me there was a reason I’d been called and said he’d take whatever I could offer. I spent a few quiet months on the sidelines, but eventually had to jump in. I was in charge of props, costuming, and training volunteers. After what felt like a million hours of work, we made it to October.

On performance day, we rehearsed all morning and ran two full dress rehearsals in the afternoon. It was 80 degrees, the sun was relentless, and the youth were sitting in the hottest part of the stadium. A few kids fainted, and many more were struggling with dehydration. The paramedics warned us they might shut it down unless we got everyone into shade. We took a break and regrouped.

As evening came, the sun finally dipped behind the mountains, dinner was served, and somehow the kids found the energy to keep going. The performance went smoothly. President Uchtdorf and Elder Renlund were there, and the youth danced and sang their hearts out.

In my journal that night I wrote: “After seven months of meticulous planning, my favorite moment wasn’t something we rehearsed. It was the spontaneous eruption of JOY at the very end. White scarves flying, flashlights waving, and the General Authorities clapping. The youth roared with unrestrained gratitude and love. Then the entire stadium joined in.”

If you had asked me earlier that day if it was worth it, I probably would have said no. But in that moment—when nearly 4,000 youth and 17,000 spectators united in thanksgiving for the temple—I would have done it all over again. That joy came from sacrifice, from striving, and from remembering why we had gathered: to honor the House of the Lord.

Becoming a Temple Worker

A few years later, I couldn’t ignore President Nelson’s repeated invitations to attend the temple more often. I had friends becoming ordinance workers, and I wondered if maybe I should do the same. But I felt unsure. Even after 20 years of temple attendance, I often felt like others understood more or experienced more.

Then I read this quote:

“If you don’t yet love to attend the temple, go more often—not less. Let the Lord, through His Spirit, teach and inspire you there. I promise you that over time, the temple will become a place of safety, solace, and revelation.”

That promise stuck with me. Eventually, I texted my bishop and said, “I’m one of those people who doesn’t love the temple yet—but I want to.” Soon after, I was called as a worker.

I didn’t start right away. I kept putting it off through fall, the holidays, and into the new year. Finally, in January, I went in for my first shift. I was nervous. And honestly? It felt a little boring. But I had committed to trust the prophet—and trust the Lord.

Each shift got better. I began to feel peace. Then confidence. Then a sense of purpose and clarity. I still have questions. But I’ve felt the power and calm of the temple change me. My fears feel smaller. My faith feels stronger. I know the Lord is strengthening me in His house.

The Promises of the Temple

President Nelson has used the word promise again and again when he speaks of temple worship:

• “I promise that increased time in the temple will bless your life in ways nothing else can.”
• “I promise that as you make the temple a greater focus in your life, it will be easier for you to access the power of Jesus Christ.”
• “I promise you that over time, the temple will become a place of safety, solace, and revelation.”

Brothers and sisters, these are not just kind thoughts. These are prophetic promises—covenantal invitations. When we respond to them with faith, even when we feel unsure, even when we are tired or afraid or unworthy, the Lord keeps His end. And as we spend regular time in His house, He strengthens our faith in Him.

I testify that Jesus Christ is the source of all temple power. That He lives and stands ready to bless us as we come unto Him in holiness. That regular time in His house will transform us—sometimes quietly, sometimes dramatically—but always personally. And I share these things in His sacred name, Jesus Christ, amen.