Latter-day Saints wear ceremonial clothing inside temples as part of the most sacred ordinances, or ceremonies, of their faith. In a letter released Friday, The First Presidency has recently made adjustments to the clothing to be more simple, comfortable, and cost-effective, as well as to enhance the temple experience for patrons. This change does not alter the sacred nature of covenants made in the temple. Ceremonial clothing previously used may still be worn for temple worship.
Some of these adjustments include:
A simpler design for the veil and robe.
Removing the plastic insert from the cap and the tie from the cap and veil.
Using a more durable material that is the same for the robes, cap, and sash, which helps them last longer and makes them easier to care for.
The new ceremonial clothing will be available to purchase on March 31, 2020. Until June 30, 2020, you may return temple ceremonial clothing purchased from December 1, 2019, through March 30, 2020, and exchange it for the new style of clothing. While it is preferred that you present a purchase receipt, you may make the exchange even if you no longer have your receipt.
The full changes can be viewed by members of the Church with an official Church login at store.ChurchofJesusChrist.org/ceremonialclothing. Resources include a longer list of frequently asked questions as well as pictures and descriptions of all the new ceremonial clothing.
Read the full First Presidency Letter here.
At General Conference leadership training meeting in October 2019, President Russell M. Nelson said, “Any adjustments made to ordinances and procedures do not change the sacred nature of the covenants being made [in the temple]. Adjustments allow for covenants to be planted in the hearts of people living in different times and circumstances.”
Aleah is a graduate of Southern Virginia University, where she studied English, Creative Writing, and Dance. She now works full time as a marketing and product manager, writer, and editor. She currently hosts the podcast “Single to the Glory” about singlehood in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Aleah served a mission in California and loves baking, Lang Leav poetry, Gaynor Minden pointe shoes, and Bollywood movies.
