In Mormonism, ordinances are sacred rites that God requires for salvation. Five of these are considered “saving ordinances,” meaning a person cannot reach the highest level of heaven without them. They include baptism, confirmation (the gift of the Holy Ghost), priesthood ordination (for men), the temple endowment, and celestial marriage (sealing) (Gospel Topics: “Ordinances”).
Latter-day Saints observe additional ordinances such as the sacrament, anointing of the sick, and temple rites performed on behalf of the dead. All ordinances must be performed by someone holding proper LDS priesthood authority and are viewed as essential parts of progressing on the path toward exaltation.
Biblical Christianity does not teach that any rite or ceremony is required for eternal life. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are gifts of grace that point believers to Christ, but salvation rests entirely on his finished work.
