What is the purpose of baptism for the dead?
Mormons believe that vicarious baptisms give the deceased, who exist in the afterlife as conscious spirits, a final chance to join the Mormon fold, and thus gain access to the Celestial Kingdom. To Mormons, only members of the LDS priesthood possess the power to baptize.
Does the Bible support baptism for the dead?
The New Testament indicates that baptisms for the dead were done during the time of the Apostle Paul (see 1 Corinthians 15:29). This ordinance was restored with the establishment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What does Paul mean when he says baptized for the dead?
Some interpret “baptized for the dead” as a metaphor for martyrdom, as in Mark 10:38 and Luke 12:50 baptism is a metaphor for suffering or martyrdom; accordingly they would translate it as “being baptized with a view to death”.
When was baptism for the dead revealed?
As early as 10 August 1840, in an address at the funeral of Seymour Brunson, the Prophet introduced the doctrine of baptism for the dead to a startled congregation of Saints.
Who can do baptisms for the dead?
Any member of the Church who is at least 12 years old may be baptized for the dead. Young men must hold the priesthood. Most importantly, everyone who enters the house of the Lord must be worthy. You and your bishop or one of his counselors will determine your worthiness in an interview.
Can priests do baptisms for the dead?
Under the direction of the temple presidency, ordained priests may be asked to officiate in baptisms for the dead, including performing baptisms and serving as witnesses.
Who was the first person to be baptized for the dead?
The first recorded baptism was performed by Harvey Olmstead, who baptized Jane Neyman in behalf of her recently departed son, Cyrus. The baptism took place in the Mississippi River and was witnessed by Vienna Jacques, who had waded on horseback into the river to hear the prayer.
How did the church receive revelation on baptisms for the dead?
The first baptisms for the dead in the uncompleted Nauvoo Temple were performed Sunday, 21 November 1841 (see History of the Church, 4:454). The Prophet sent instructions by letter, as did ancient prophets, to the Saints as revelation was received, clarifying the order of baptism for the dead in the house of the Lord.
What does being baptized in blood mean?
In Christian theology, baptism of blood (Latin: baptismus sanguinis) or baptism by blood, also called martyred baptism, is a doctrine which holds that a Christian is able to attain through martyrdom the grace of justification normally attained through baptism by water, without needing to receive baptism by water.