Mormon temple hurts people who struggle with infertility #mormon #ldstemple #infertility

Infertility and the LDS Temple: The Pain Beneath the Promise

The LDS Church, known for its emphasis on family values and growth, inherently ties the concept of parenthood to spiritual fulfillment. Yet this paradigm often leaves those grappling with infertility feeling isolated, inadequate, and unworthy. For many, the repeated temple injunction to "multiply and replenish the earth" isn't just a reminder of spiritual duty but a poignant echo of a deeply personal struggle. The implicit message received from such emphasis can be damaging, highlighting the gap between doctrinal expectations and personal reality for those unable to conceive.

A Brief History of Doctrine and Tradition

The doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints places a significant emphasis on family, both in earthly life and in eternal existence. From the early teachings of Joseph Smith to the present day, the covenant of temple marriage includes the expectation of bearing children. This belief is rooted in scripture and reinforced during temple ceremonies, wherein members are reminded of their divine obligations. The historical context of these teachings was perhaps less complex when families were generally larger, and infertility was less openly discussed.

The Emotional Toll on Those Who Struggle

For couples attending the temple while coping with infertility, the experience can be an emotional roller coaster. Each visit might unintentionally highlight their perceived shortcomings. As shared on the Mormon Stories Podcast, women have voiced the deep pain triggered by the temple narrative, where the pressure to adhere to a divine commandment becomes an intimate reminder of their struggles. The tradition of centering spiritual worthiness around family creation does not account for those unable to fulfill this expectation, leading to spiritual and emotional distress. Highlight of Temple Expectations: The emphasis on "multiplying and replenishing" is pervasive throughout temple teachings. Emotional Responses: Many report feelings of guilt, inadequacy, and distress stemming from an inability to meet prescribed roles. Community Reactions: The lack of dialogue around infertility within church communities compounds the struggle.