A fundamental part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is temple worship. Before entering a temple, each Latter-day Saint must qualify for a document called a temple recommend. This recommend is obtained through a private, confidential meeting between the Church member and his or her congregational leader. This bishop or branch president asks the member questions about his or her faith, commitment to following Jesus Christ snd personal conduct.
The qualifications for a temple recommend include living basic gospel principles, such as believing in God the Father and Jesus Christ and the Restoration of the original church of Christ by Joseph Smith. Members are asked if they follow the current leaders of the Church and attend their Church meetings. Other requirements include obeying the Church’s health practices, paying tithing and refraining from sexual relations outside of marriage. To obtain a temple recommend, members must not be involved in any physical, mental or emotional abuse of others.
After the initial interview with a bishop or branch president, an additional meeting is held with a member of the stake presidency. Each person signs the recommend, including the member, signifying that he or she has answered the questions honestly and is worthy to attend the temple.
Church members present their wallet-sized recommend each time they enter the temple. A temple recommend must be renewed every two years.