In the Church, an ordinance is a sacred, formal act performed
by the authority of the priesthood. Some ordinances
are essential to our exaltation. These ordinances are called
saving ordinances. They include baptism, confirmation, ordination
to the Melchizedek Priesthood (for men), the temple
endowment, and the marriage sealing. With each of these
ordinances, we enter into solemn covenants with the Lord.
Other ordinances, such as naming and blessing children,
consecrating oil, and administering to the sick and afflicted,
are also performed by priesthood authority. While they are
not essential to our salvation, they are important for our comfort,
guidance, and encouragement.
Ordinances and covenants help us remember who we
are. They remind us of our duty to God. The Lord has provided
them to help us come unto Him and receive eternal
life. When we honor them, He strengthens us.
You may receive many opportunities to participate in
priesthood ordinances. Whenever you have such an opportunity,
do all you can to prepare yourself, whether you are
performing the ordinance or receiving it. You can prepare by
praying, fasting, counseling with priesthood leaders, and
studying the scriptures and the words of latter-day prophets.
If you are a priesthood holder, you should always be spiritually
prepared to perform an ordinance. Live a clean, worthy
life, and strive to receive the constant companionship of the
Holy Ghost.
Additional references: D&C 84:19–21; Articles of Faith 1:3–5
See also Covenant; Gospel; Priesthood
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