Temple

In the LDS church, Temple ordinances are the pinnacle of worship. Among them are the washings & anointings, the endowment, and sealings. These solemn rituals surround and support the making of holy covenants.

The temple rites are highly revered. Details of these ordinances are so special that they are not discussed outside the temple walls. We have a little saying that goes like this: The temple is sacred, not secret.

Talkeria

Tonight, we held a Talkeria here is Houston. Four in attendance. One was me, one was a newcomer. The two others were veteran attendees. The meeting started at 7pm. By 9:00, the two veterans had departed. Just I and the newbee remained.

We talked away, until I noticed the restaurant manager rolling down the overhead door to close-off the front entrance. I looked at my watch. Shocked! The bewitching hour of 10pm had arrived. Where had the last 60 minutes gone? They had been swallowed up by a thoroughly engaging and much needed conversation.

Over and over again, I am discovering, the spiritual nature of talking face-to-face, heart-to-heart, in an environment free from agenda and judgment. Sharing pent-up feelings and thoughts that can’t be expressed elsewhere.

My new Mormon friend had recently undergone a faith transition. In loneliness…all by himself. He described his current state as “eviscerated to the core.” I have spoken to many people about their faith journey. No one has ever described it with those words. Painful, excruciating, gut-wrenching–but, never eviscerating.

Tonight is the first time I’d met this man. The sharing and caring that transpired in those last 60 minutes created a beautiful and sweet bond between us. I truly feel that open & honest conversations are….sacred.

So, I now have a little saying that goes like this: Talking is sacred, not secret.

Oh, that these sacred connections could be had with parents and peers, with brothers and bishops. That’s where they should be happening. That’s where safety and unconditional love should be found. Someday.