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Preparing for Your Endowment
Receiving your endowment is a sacred experience. Sometimes in the excitement and focus of major life events like missions and marriage, the temple experience becomes secondary. However, your temple endowment can and should be a deeply meaningful experience.
Using entertaining stories and insightful teachings from the scriptures, this book helps teens and young adults replace their fears and questions about the temple with the faith and confidence necessary to make and keep eternal covenants and to experience all the blessings of temple worship.
Using entertaining stories and insightful teachings from the scriptures, this book helps teens and young adults replace their fears and questions about the temple with the faith and confidence necessary to make and keep eternal covenants and to experience all the blessings of temple worship.
176 pages, Paperback
Published January 9, 2017
40 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 10, 2017
This is a book that I wish I would've had years ago. I love how each chapter is broken down in a way that makes the topics relatable, as well as easy to visual and understand. My mind was opened to a few new concepts that I hadn't considered before, and I have the desire to learn more for myself through personal experience.
Each chapter takes a topic at a time. There's a "homework" section at the end of each chapter that gives the reader some additional, personal ideas for study and contemplation to make this experience right for each person. I like that because I think this is something personal and by allowing for that reflection, it truly becomes such.
I believe that different things stand out to me at different times in my life, depending on my circumstances at the time, and there were some really profound ideas that jumped out at me. I really am eager to study this out some more and to see what happens.
This is a great resource for someone who is preparing to go to the temple for the first time, as well as for those who have already been. Like I said, even I learned a few things.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. This in no way affected my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Each chapter takes a topic at a time. There's a "homework" section at the end of each chapter that gives the reader some additional, personal ideas for study and contemplation to make this experience right for each person. I like that because I think this is something personal and by allowing for that reflection, it truly becomes such.
I believe that different things stand out to me at different times in my life, depending on my circumstances at the time, and there were some really profound ideas that jumped out at me. I really am eager to study this out some more and to see what happens.
This is a great resource for someone who is preparing to go to the temple for the first time, as well as for those who have already been. Like I said, even I learned a few things.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. This in no way affected my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
April 2, 2017
Yes! Yes! Yes! I have been pondering quite a bit about what I want my children to know about the gospel and especially about the temple. This book is the answer! It is well researched, does not deviate from scripture or modern revelation, and lovingly treats the subject matter without being too technical, overwhelming, or haughty.
I received my endowment about 15 years ago and felt very prepared spiritually and by the teachings of my parents. I love the temple and have studied much about the symbols presented there. I feel spiritually renewed and enlightened when I go, but I know others that do not feel that way when they go. You might have to wrestle with God for deeper understanding, but I agree with the author that nothing within the temple should make you uncomfortable. There is amazing meaning in all of it and helpers every step of the way. If you are seeking Christ, you will find him there in abundance.
I absolutely needed the first section of this book. It could be a book on its own that I would like to distribute to all Church members around me about building and solidifying our foundations in Christ. Understanding where you stand in relationship to the doctrine of Christ is so important! Your motivation for receiving your endowment should be more than curiosity or simply something you do because you are about to serve a mission or get married.
I had never heard about Joseph Smith being born during the winter solstice (the longest, darkest night that will only lead to more and more light in coming days) or thought about the cleansing, clothing, and naming of a newborn baby when I go through the initiatory ordinance—both these and many other tidbits were very enlightening as I read this book. I also think everyone should study the questions at the end of each chapter! I have never endorsed study questions before, but these are ones that will bring greater understanding to your life and help you come closer to Christ.
The second section of the book carefully opens up the temple experience in a reverent way. Much of this was not new to me but is a perfect summary of what I have studied and would want to share if I were to research and write about these topics. The author spells things out and quotes scripture and modern prophets without being boring or overbearing. He also shares some personal experiences that beautifully illustrate the concepts. Parts of it felt like I was at a fireside listening to him tell his story and bear his testimony. The questions set forth in the final chapter are what this gospel is all about: “What good is your religion if it isn’t bringing you unto Christ in a very real and personal way?” (p. 147).
This book will be going on my bookshelf as something to personally revisit periodically and as a source from which to teach my children. I will also be getting the author’s other book “Understanding Your Endowment” and have high hopes for it as well.
I received my endowment about 15 years ago and felt very prepared spiritually and by the teachings of my parents. I love the temple and have studied much about the symbols presented there. I feel spiritually renewed and enlightened when I go, but I know others that do not feel that way when they go. You might have to wrestle with God for deeper understanding, but I agree with the author that nothing within the temple should make you uncomfortable. There is amazing meaning in all of it and helpers every step of the way. If you are seeking Christ, you will find him there in abundance.
I absolutely needed the first section of this book. It could be a book on its own that I would like to distribute to all Church members around me about building and solidifying our foundations in Christ. Understanding where you stand in relationship to the doctrine of Christ is so important! Your motivation for receiving your endowment should be more than curiosity or simply something you do because you are about to serve a mission or get married.
I had never heard about Joseph Smith being born during the winter solstice (the longest, darkest night that will only lead to more and more light in coming days) or thought about the cleansing, clothing, and naming of a newborn baby when I go through the initiatory ordinance—both these and many other tidbits were very enlightening as I read this book. I also think everyone should study the questions at the end of each chapter! I have never endorsed study questions before, but these are ones that will bring greater understanding to your life and help you come closer to Christ.
The second section of the book carefully opens up the temple experience in a reverent way. Much of this was not new to me but is a perfect summary of what I have studied and would want to share if I were to research and write about these topics. The author spells things out and quotes scripture and modern prophets without being boring or overbearing. He also shares some personal experiences that beautifully illustrate the concepts. Parts of it felt like I was at a fireside listening to him tell his story and bear his testimony. The questions set forth in the final chapter are what this gospel is all about: “What good is your religion if it isn’t bringing you unto Christ in a very real and personal way?” (p. 147).
This book will be going on my bookshelf as something to personally revisit periodically and as a source from which to teach my children. I will also be getting the author’s other book “Understanding Your Endowment” and have high hopes for it as well.
March 13, 2019
Wish I would have had this for myself or to help me teach my kids (now adults) about the endowment. My wife and I teach temple preparation in our ward. This provides some great insights we can use. I would recommend this to anyone preparing for their endowment or having recently been endowed.
October 9, 2018
After reading this, I felt much better about going to the temple to receive my endowment. I studied on my own, and I found this to be incredibly guiding.
January 24, 2017
A little over a year ago, we reviewed Cory Jensen’s first book, Understanding Your Endowment. I really like this book– I bought it as a gift for friends, and so was very happy when I learned he was writing another book, and even happier after I read the book! This new book and is also focused on the temple and it does not disappoint. Really a prequel to his first book, Preparing for Your Endowment is aimed at those who are preparing to go through the temple for the first time.
Now, when I was preparing to go through the temple for their first time, I was given an antiquated book that I can;’t even recall the name. This book focused on ancient temple and to be honest, really confused me. It had a heavy emphasis on priest and men and just seemed like a really great paperweight. Even after I went through the temple, I saw no connection with that book and my experience. I’m not saying that book was bad, but it was not for me. I wish, I wish, I wish– I had this book at that time, This book is easy to read, and relate-able to young women as well as young men. It’s focus is not on mysterious ancient tradition, but rather on being prepared to be guided by the spirit throughout one’s life.... to read the rest of this review, please visit the Exponent blog here: http://www.the-exponent.com/book-revi...
Now, when I was preparing to go through the temple for their first time, I was given an antiquated book that I can;’t even recall the name. This book focused on ancient temple and to be honest, really confused me. It had a heavy emphasis on priest and men and just seemed like a really great paperweight. Even after I went through the temple, I saw no connection with that book and my experience. I’m not saying that book was bad, but it was not for me. I wish, I wish, I wish– I had this book at that time, This book is easy to read, and relate-able to young women as well as young men. It’s focus is not on mysterious ancient tradition, but rather on being prepared to be guided by the spirit throughout one’s life.... to read the rest of this review, please visit the Exponent blog here: http://www.the-exponent.com/book-revi...
March 12, 2017
I loved this book, even though I definitely wasn't the intended audience. I'm going to make sure that all of my children read it as they prepare to enter the temple... clear ideas, clever insight taken directly from the scriptures and words of the prophets, and detailed but respectful descriptions of temple ordinances and covenants. The perfect preparation for those who are strengthening their testimonies and preparing for their next step in progression.
May 20, 2018
This book is written for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints preparing to enter into their temples. As such, the material is not provided with much context to those who do not practice the faith. It assumes a background knowledge and basic understanding of core concepts and practices of the religion.
That being said, it does feel like it is being written for a specific demographic within the religion and certain examples and stories will feel more relevant to those groups. However, I think this is an excellent resource for those who are preparing to enter into the sacred space of the temple and receive their endowment for the first time.
Although I have already received my endowment, it helped me consider it in new ways and strengthened my faith in Jesus Christ.
That being said, it does feel like it is being written for a specific demographic within the religion and certain examples and stories will feel more relevant to those groups. However, I think this is an excellent resource for those who are preparing to enter into the sacred space of the temple and receive their endowment for the first time.
Although I have already received my endowment, it helped me consider it in new ways and strengthened my faith in Jesus Christ.
June 30, 2017
-Disclaimer: I won this book for free through goodreads giveaways in exchange for an honest review.-
I do not agree nor like this book at all. If I did an actual, long review on this it would not be very nice.
The author talks a lot about things he doesn't understand and I find it rather dull. I shall pass the book on.
I do not agree nor like this book at all. If I did an actual, long review on this it would not be very nice.
The author talks a lot about things he doesn't understand and I find it rather dull. I shall pass the book on.
April 8, 2021
I love this book. I learned so much about the temple. My testimony and love of the temple increased as I read. This book provides insights and thought-provoking questions which are helping me prepare for the temple.
April 14, 2023
It has a few good ideas but some things that are straight up doctrinally wrong. More wrong than right. It’s also very self-serving. He repeatedly references his other book for more info, without actually quoting it so people will have to buy it. Do not recommend.
March 4, 2024
This was very hit or miss for me. It felt unfocused, going into great academic detail about something tangential, then overly vague about things more pertinent to the supposed main topic. The stories felt self-aggrandizing, and there a few things that felt doctrinally incorrect.
August 20, 2025
I wish this book had been available 35 years ago. Regardless, it is still a phenomenal book in preparing all to understand the temple experience and the vital covenants associated with it, whether one has already been endowed or not.
December 30, 2017
Loved it! So helpful. Would recommend to anyone who's preparing to go through the temple or who's been going their whole lives!
July 9, 2019
A really great resource on preparing yourself to receive your Endowment. I’m looking forward to reading another of the author’s books, Understanding Your Endowment.
March 1, 2021
I wish I could have read this before going to the temple my first time.
January 14, 2022
A great read for anyone preparing to attend the temple or attending the temple currently.
July 5, 2024
4.5 stars
- has some great info for those preparing for their endowments
- had "homework" at the end of each section
- I learned some new things!
- has some great info for those preparing for their endowments
- had "homework" at the end of each section
- I learned some new things!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews