It is appropriate for us Latterday Saints to desire spiritual
experiences, if we want them for the right reasons. The Prophet
Joseph Smith demonstrated this when, at the dedication of the
Kirtland Temple, he prayed: "let thy house be filled with a mighty
rushing wind, with thy glory." Joseph specifically "asked" for a
heavenly experience. Of course, his faith had waxed strong in the
Lord; but then again, shouldn't ours?
So writes Andrew S. Weeks in "Spiritual Temples: Heavenly
Experiences in the Houses of God," a thought-provoking, inspiring
book that is also studiously and reverently researched. Weeks
writes about the history of temple worship and its restoration in
the latter days, which sparked a stream of heavenly manifestations
given to prophets and other faithful saints, fulfilling the Lord's
words that temples are "consecrated" for "obtaining revelations."
Present-day temple building, the future of temple work, and
worthiness are also discussed.
"I will appear unto my servants, and speak unto them with mine
own voice," the Lord promised, "if my people will keep my
commandments, and do not pollute this holy house."
"Spiritual Temples" supports the premise that, whether through
inspiration or direct manifestation, heavenly experiences are
available to temple visitors today.