![]() ![]() One may not have the sacred without first sacrificing something for it. The words sacred and sacrifice come from the same root. Russell Ballard has taught that “the word sacrifice means literally ‘to make sacred,’ or ‘to render sacred’” (“The Law of Sacrifice,” Ensign, Oct. Holy places and sacred space are also distinguished by the sacrifice they require. Great personal preparation is required for us to receive the spiritual benefit of standing in holy places. The importance of holy places and sacred space in our worship can hardly be overestimated. The faith and reverence associated with them and the respect we have for what transpires or has transpired in them make them holy. Much of what we reverence, and what we teach our children to reverence as holy and sacred, is reflected in these places. For Latter-day Saints, such holy places include venues of historic significance, our homes, sacrament meetings, and temples. Holy places have always been essential to the proper worship of God. In the face of such perplexing problems, the Lord counsels, “Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting gospel, should gather together, and stand in holy places” ( D&C 101:22). Desolating disease, persecution, and war have an all-too-familiar face and have imposed themselves into our daily experience. The context of His counsel is all the more significant as we look at the current condition of our world. Three times in the Doctrine and Covenants the Lord counsels His people to “stand in holy places” (see D&C 45:32 D&C 87:8 D&C 101:22). They are places where we meet the divine and find the Spirit of the Lord. Indeed, without the holy and sacred, we are left with only the profane and secular.Īmidst the bustle of the secular world, with its certain uncertainty, there must be places that offer spiritual refuge, renewal, hope, and peace. ![]() Our ability to seek, recognize, and reverence the holy above the profane, and the sacred above the secular, defines our spirituality. The glory of God encompasses all that is holy and sacred. ![]() The Savior’s teachings, doctrine, and personal example lift all who truly believe in Him to a divine standard that requires both eye and mind be single to the glory of God (see D&C 4:5 D&C 88:68). With these few words, Jesus declares His kingdom independent and distinct from this world. You are blessed and the source of every blessing.Īnd whenever we use this symbol of our faith.In answer to Pilate’s question “Art thou the King of the Jews?” the Savior answered, “My kingdom is not of this world” ( John 18:33, 36). When installing these objects in your home oratory, you may wish to bless them using the “Prayer for Placing Objects for Prayer and Devotion”: Seasonal objects such as a rice bowl (for Lent) or and Advent wreath (for Advent).A tablecloth or covering in colors appropriate for the liturgical season (or white which is appropriate all the time).Icons or paintings of Jesus, Mary, the Holy Trinity, or the saints.Books for sacred reading and meditation, such as the Bible, children’s religious picture books, lives of the saints, a daily missal, prayer books, and so on.Some objects you might include in your home shrine: You can use the space as the focal point for family prayer time, or as a special place for individuals to retreat for prayer or sacred reading. ![]() Whatever you call it, use the space as a physical reminder of God’s presence in your home, as well as your intention as a family to create “space” for God in your life. The Catechism of the Catholic Church refers to this home prayer space as a prayer corner or “little oratory.” (An oratory is a place of worship not attached to to parish.) Set aside a special place in your home for prayer and holy objects-a small table, the mantle above your fireplace, a corner with shelves and comfortable seating. ![]()
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