Respecting Old LDS Temple Garments: A Guide for Discernment and Good Intentions

The Significance of Temple Garments

Old LDS temple garments carry a profound religious significance for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These garments, known to members as 'temple garments,' serve as a symbol of their covenants and the privileges of attending sacred temple rituals. Proper disposal or reassignment of these garments is an important aspect of the faith's practices, reflecting respect for their spiritual value.

Respectful Disposal Methods

There are several ways to handle old LDS temple clothes that align with the church's values while ensuring appropriate respect:

1. Returning to the Church

The church encourages members to return old or unused temple clothing to the temple for disposal. This method ensures that the garments are treated with the reverence they deserve. The church has specific procedures for this, and the clothing is often repurposed or disposed of in a respectful manner.

2. Donation

For those who wish to donate their temple garments, it's essential to consider the recipient carefully. If the clothing is still in good condition, it may be donated to others who are members of the faith and understand the significance of the garments. Careful screening of recipients is crucial to maintain the sanctity of these items.

3. Personal Storage

Some members choose to keep old garments for sentimental reasons, especially if they have personal memories associated with them. This decision should be made with an understanding of the spiritual value of these items and how they might be preserved in a respectful manner.

4. Disposal

In cases where the garments are worn out or no longer usable, they should be disposed of respectfully. Cutting the garments up to prevent misuse is a common practice. While complete burning of the garments is not a standard recommendation, particular sacred impressions might be destroyed before disposal.

Personal Experiences and Wisdom

Many members have shared their experiences and thought processes regarding the disposal of temple garments. Some find it necessary to seek guidance from their local temple, while others have developed personal methods based on their own belief systems.

1. Burning or Symbolic Destruction

Some individuals opt to burn the garments, particularly the sacred portions. This method ensures that the vestiges of sacred symbols are respectfully destroyed. Burning, however, is not a universal approach and may be discouraged by some members.

2. Repurposing into Bibs

Some members have reported repurposing the garments by cutting out the symbols and using the remaining fabric to make bibs for infants. This method allows the fabric to fulfill a useful purpose while ensuring that the sacred symbols are destroyed.

3. Disposing in the Trash

Others have shared their experiences of discarding their temple garments in the trash. This method is controversial and not recommended by the church. However, for those feeling deeply disturbed by their past experiences with the faith, it can be seen as a symbol of relinquishing the false teachings.

Conclusion

Deciding how to handle old LDS temple garments is a deeply personal and significant choice. Members of the church should consider the context and spiritual value of these items when making their decisions. For those unsure, seeking guidance from their local temple can provide valuable insight and support.

While there is no single prescribed method, respecting the spiritual nature of these garments and ensuring their proper disposal is an important aspect of maintaining faithfulness and reverence.