In Mormonism, ordinances are sacred rites required for salvation and exaltation. Some are called “saving ordinances,” because without them, a person cannot progress to the highest level of heaven. These include baptism, confirmation (the gift of the Holy Ghost), priesthood ordination (for men), endowment, and celestial marriage (sealing).
Mormons also observe other ordinances such as the sacrament (similar to communion), anointing of the sick, and temple ordinances for the dead. All ordinances must be performed by someone holding proper LDS priesthood authority. For Mormons, ordinances are not optional symbols of faith but essential steps in the plan of salvation.
Biblical Christianity, however, does not teach that rites or ceremonies are conditions for eternal life. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are important gifts of grace, but salvation rests solely on Christ’s finished work. Ordinances in the Bible are signs pointing to Christ’s promises, not requirements to earn or complete salvation.
