Prayer has always been a sacred bridge between humanity and God. Across Christian traditions, believers lift names, burdens, and hopes before the Lord, trusting Him to hear and respond according to His will. Within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), one deeply meaningful practice connected to prayer is the IDS Temple Prayer Roll.
The IDS Temple Prayer Roll represents an act of faith, submission, and trust in God’s divine care. When individuals place names on the prayer roll, they are symbolically offering loved ones, challenges, and circumstances into God’s hands through sacred temple worship. This act is not about ritual alone, but about sincere faith and reliance on God’s power.
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” — James 5:16
What Is the IDS Temple Prayer Roll?
The IDS Temple Prayer Roll is a list of names submitted to LDS temples for inclusion in sacred prayers offered during temple worship. These names may include individuals facing illness, hardship, emotional struggles, or significant life decisions.
Those whose names are placed on the prayer roll do not need to be LDS members. The act is rooted in love, compassion, and faith that God cares deeply for every individual.
“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all people.” — 1 Timothy 2:1
The Spiritual Purpose of the Prayer Roll
At its core, the IDS Temple Prayer Roll is an expression of intercessory prayer standing in faith on behalf of others. It reflects a belief that God is aware of every need and that prayer invites His peace, healing, and guidance.
Key Spiritual Intentions Include:
- Seeking comfort for the afflicted
- Asking for healing and strength
- Inviting clarity during difficult decisions
- Offering gratitude and surrender
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
The prayer roll serves as a reminder that no concern is too small or too great to bring before God.
Also Read: 7 Powerful Prayer Stretch Practices to Deepen Faith and Strengthen Your Spirit
How the IDS Temple Prayer Roll Works
Submitting names to the prayer roll is simple and reverent. Names are typically added through LDS temple systems and remain on the prayer roll for a specific period. During that time, temple patrons offer prayers in a sacred setting, asking God’s will to be done in the lives of those listed.
This practice emphasizes humility acknowledging that while humans ask, God decides according to His perfect wisdom.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5
Biblical Foundations of Intercessory Prayer
Although the IDS Temple Prayer Roll is specific to LDS practice, the principle of intercessory prayer is deeply biblical and widely embraced across Christianity.
Examples from Scripture:
Moses interceded for Israel
“Moses pleaded with the Lord his God…” — Exodus 32:11
Jesus prayed for His disciples
“I pray for them… that You protect them.” — John 17:9,15
The early church prayed for one another
“Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” — Acts 12:5
These examples affirm that praying on behalf of others aligns with God’s heart.
Faith, Not Formula: The Heart Behind the Prayer Roll
It is important to understand that the power of the IDS Temple Prayer Roll does not lie in the list itself, but in the faith behind it. Prayer is not a transaction or guarantee of specific outcomes, it is an act of trust.
God answers prayers in His time and in His way, often bringing peace, strength, and wisdom even when circumstances remain challenging.
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” — 1 John 5:14
Who Can Be Added to the IDS Temple Prayer Roll?
Anyone can be added to the prayer roll, regardless of background, belief, or circumstance. Common reasons include:
- Physical or mental illness
- Family or marital challenges
- Grief and loss
- Career or life decisions
- Emotional or spiritual struggles
This inclusivity reflects Christ’s command to love and pray for all.
“Love your neighbor as yourself.” — Mark 12:31
How the Prayer Roll Encourages Personal Faith
Submitting a name to the IDS Temple Prayer Roll is also a spiritual act for the person submitting it. It encourages:
- Letting go of worry
- Trusting God’s sovereignty
- Strengthening hope and patience
- Developing compassion for others
Often, those who place names on the prayer roll find that their own faith is deepened in the process.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6
Respecting Sacred Practices
The IDS Temple Prayer Roll is considered sacred within LDS worship. While the details of temple prayers are not publicly discussed, the intent is clear: to bring lives and needs before God with reverence, humility, and faith.
This respect underscores the seriousness with which prayer is treated—not as routine, but as holy communion with God.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.” — Psalm 37:7
The Universal Message of Hope
Even for those outside the LDS faith, the message behind the IDS Temple Prayer Roll is universal: God hears prayers, cares deeply for humanity, and invites believers to support one another through prayer.
Across denominations, prayer remains a powerful expression of hope, love, and trust in God’s goodness.
“The Lord is near to all who call on Him.” — Psalm 145:18
❓FAQ Section
1. What is the IDS Temple Prayer Roll?
The IDS Temple Prayer Roll is a list of names submitted for inclusion in sacred prayers offered during LDS temple worship, focusing on intercession and faith.
2. Who can be added to the IDS Temple Prayer Roll?
Anyone can be added, regardless of religious background, including family members, friends, or individuals facing challenges.
3. How long do names remain on the prayer roll?
Names typically remain on the prayer roll for a designated period, during which temple patrons pray on their behalf.
4. Is the IDS Temple Prayer Roll biblical?
While the practice is specific to LDS tradition, the principle of intercessory prayer is strongly supported throughout the Bible.
5. Does adding a name guarantee a specific outcome?
No. The prayer roll reflects trust in God’s will rather than guaranteed results, emphasizing faith and surrender.
6. Can non-LDS members submit names to the prayer roll?
Yes. Submitting names is an act of compassion and faith and does not require LDS membership.
7. Why do people find comfort in the prayer roll?
Many find peace knowing their concerns are being lifted in prayer, reinforcing hope, trust, and spiritual support.
Conclusion
The IDS Temple Prayer Roll stands as a profound reminder of the power of intercessory prayer and the importance of placing trust in God’s will. It reflects a faith that believes God is attentive, compassionate, and actively involved in human lives.
Whether seeking healing, comfort, guidance, or peace, the act of submitting names to the prayer roll symbolizes surrender acknowledging that God’s wisdom surpasses human understanding.
As believers lift one another in prayer, hearts are strengthened, faith is renewed, and hope is restored.
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” — Ephesians 3:20
May every prayer offered spoken or unspoken draw hearts closer to God and remind us that no one walks alone.