Baptism for the dead, vicarious baptism or proxy baptism is the religious practice of baptizing a living person on behalf of one who is dead, with the living person acting as the deceased person's proxy. Those who practice this rite view baptism as an indispensable requirement to enter the Kingdom of God, and thus practice Baptism for the Dead to give those who have died without ever having had the opportunity to receive baptism the opportunity to receive it by proxy if they wish. Baptism for the Dead is best known as a doctrine of the Latter Day Saint movement, where it has been practiced since 1840. It is currently practiced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), where it is performed only in dedicated temples, as well as in several (but not all) other current factions of the Latter Day Saint movement.
How To Prepare:
1. 1. Have faith in Jesus Christ. Be baptized and confirmed a member of His Church. Boys must hold the Aaronic priesthood.
2. 2. Keep the commandments and make good choices. Repent when you do something wrong.
3. 3. Have an interview with your bishop or branch president. If you are worthy, he will give you a limited-use temple recommend.
4. 4.Help do Family work so you can take family names to the temple, if possible. Study the scriptures and Church publications that will help you understand temple work.
On The Day:
5. 5.Dress in your church clothes. Be clan and well groomed. Read the scriptures or Church magazines, or listen to uplifting music.
6. 6. Pray to feel the Holy ghost when you are in the temple. Don’t take books, electronics, or music on the way to the temple that will not help you feel reverent.
In The Temple:
7. 7.You will be given white clothing to change into. White is a symbol of purity and cleanliness. At the baptismal font you may be able to watch others being baptized for the dead.
8. 8. While you wait, you can pray and ponder. The temple is a special place where you can be close to Heavenly Father.
9. 9.You will be confirmed for people who have already had their baptisms performed for them.
10.Think about those you were baptized and confirmed for and the blessings that will now be available to them because of your temple service.
-By Elyssa J. Kirkham
(Liahona Magazine Sept.2011 Edition)
-The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
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