What I Have Observed in The House of the Lord

By Lauren Madsen

It’s been two and a half years since I began my service as a temple worker, and I would like to think I am a different person now, that I have seen things and learned things that I may not have learned otherwise. Some lessons came through official training, others came through quiet observation. 

I’ve learned that serving in the temple as patrons and/or ordinance workers has the potential to transform us into better disciples of Christ. If we are intentional and open to the whisperings of the Spirit, we will see and experience miracles as we gather Israel on both sides of the veil in what President Nelson called the “most important thing taking place on earth today.”

I’ve learned that everyone has a story: every worker, every patron. It has taught me to be extra careful to treat everyone I meet in the temple with care. Sometimes it is apparent when you look at someone that they are struggling—you can see the emotion in their countenance. Other times it isn’t so obvious. Some people suffer silently. I started to just assume that anyone I interacted with was going through something difficult. Whether they were or not, I hoped they could feel the Savior’s for them through me in whatever interaction we have. And really, who wouldn’t appreciate being handled with care?

Along with treating others with care, I've learned that a simple smile can sometimes offer all the reassurance someone needs. Often, as I have helped patrons who look unsure of where to go or what to do in areas of the temple, I start to smile before they even see me, and I have witnessed their sigh of relief as they realize they will have the help they need.

I could go on and on, but perhaps what stands out the most during my time as a temple worker is this: Many faithful saints could use their physical limitations as a legitimate excuse for not being in the temple, and yet they are “regulars” who we see every week. One patron who comes multiple times a week to participate in the sealing ordinance told me he is 97 years old. Another elderly patron I see often brings a pillow to support her back through an endowment session, and on her way out of the temple she stops in the baptistry to participate in one confirmation. There are accommodations made for those with disabilities, and it is inspiring to see those individuals come and experience the blessings of temple service, even when it may be difficult to come.

Some patrons come to the temple seeking peace, some come seeking answers, some come because they are receiving their own ordinances for the first time, some come because they have a stack of family members’ names they are eagerly working through, some come because their Relief Society or Elders Quorum set up a group appointment, some come because they know they will find Jesus there. Maybe it is because I have teenagers, but I especially love that there are valiant youth who escape to the temple during their lunch break at the high school to perform baptisms and confirmations. Whatever their reasons for coming, serving all of these devoted disciples of Christ is one of my life’s greatest opportunities. They commit to and live a lifestyle that is different from the world. They come willingly and expectantly, and they leave with power, glory, and angels round about them (D&C 109:22).