LDS Church releases video to educate, dispel myths about sacred clothing

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has long proclaimed that what happens inside of its temples isn't secret, but rather sacred. Now, they have removed some of the mystery by releasing a video about robes and garments that they wear both inside and outside of the temple.

"Because there is little or no accurate information on this subject on the internet the church feels it's important to provide this resource," LDS Church spokesman Dale Jones said in a statement. "The wearing of religious clothing reflects commitment and devotion to God. Latter-day Saints seek the same respect and sensitivity regarding our sacred clothing as shown to those of other faiths who wear religious vestments."

The video shows the robes that are worn during religious ceremonies inside the temple, and also the garments that are worn daily under clothing. "Some people incorrectly refer to temple garments as 'magical' or 'magical underwear,'" the narrator says. "This is not only inaccurate but also offensive to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.”

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Blogger Jana Riess hopes that this video enlightens non-Mormons who watch it, and gives them a better sense of what temple garments are all about. Having "refreshing transparency about garments and temple dress" could "persuade gawkers that there's nothing to see here, folks," she said. "Let's move along." --Catherine Garcia