Sunday services are open to everyone and include hymns, talks, prayer, and sacrament communion followed by optional classes for different age groups. In the Washington DC area, services are offered in multiple languages—including English, Spanish, French, Chinese, Farsi, and American Sign Language—which reflects the diversity of the community. There are also congregations specifically organized for young single adults, single adults, and families. Visitors are always welcome, with no pressure to participate or donate. These gatherings provide an opportunity to observe worship in a respectful, inclusive, and family-friendly environment.
Temples are different from regular Sunday meetinghouses and are used for sacred ordinances rather than weekly worship services. While entering the temple itself is reserved for members of the Church who meet specific preparation standards, everyone is warmly invited to visit the temple grounds. The gardens surrounding each temple are open to the public and offer a peaceful place for reflection. At the Washington D.C. Temple, there is also a Visitors’ Center that is open daily and welcomes people of all backgrounds. It features interactive exhibits, artwork, and hosts free community events and musical performances throughout the year.
A ward is a local congregation typically made up of several hundred members in a geographic area. More than a place of worship, it’s a volunteer-led community where members uplift, serve, and support each other.
Wards are the heart of Latter-day Saint congregational life. Led by volunteers and united by service, they offer spiritual connection and compassionate community every day of the week.
At the heart of every Latter-day Saint ward is a rhythm of service, worship, and care that unfolds not just on Sundays, but every day of the week. This section presents the seven core practices that define life in a ward—each one offering a window into how members live their faith through action, community, and shared responsibility.
Wards gather on Sundays for a two-hour worship block:
All roles are filled by volunteers—teachers, youth leaders, musicians, administrators. These callings rotate regularly and help members grow spiritually while serving the community.
Every member or household is paired with a companionship that offers friendship, emotional support, and practical help. This system ensures no one is forgotten.
When hardships arise—health, financial, or emotional—wards respond with meals, job help, housing assistance, and financial support, coordinated by the bishop.
Weekly programs include:
Wards host potlucks, talent shows, holiday celebrations, and neighborhood service. These foster community and often include friends of other faiths.
The bishop leads with the help of a ward council—a team of men and women who plan programs, address needs, and guide the ward.
He is the center of our faith, our hope, and our joy. We follow Him, serve others in His name, and invite all to come unto Him.