Eternal

Eternal is defined as “having infinite duration: everlasting; characterized by abiding fellowship with God.”[1] Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints often see the term eternal connected to Father, marriage, family, life, truth(s), blessings, consequences, progression, principles, and joy—all of which point to the underlying belief in Heavenly Father’s plan of salvation for his children.

“For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” (Moses 1:39)

Life has meaning, purpose, and direction for each person who has lived or will live on Earth. “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” reminds us of Heavenly Father’s desire for each of us to live with him and our families eternally.

In the premortal realm, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshipped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize their divine destiny as heirs of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally.[2]