Elder Melvin J. Ballard … taught: "Why is it that sometimes only one of a city or household receives the Gospel?  It was made known to me that it is because the righteous dead who have received the Gospel in the spirit world are exercising themselves, and in answers to their prayers elders of the Church are sent to the homes of their posterity..., and that a descendant in the flesh is then privileged to do the work for his dead kindred.  I want to say to you that it is with greater intensity that the hearts of the fathers and mothers in the spirit world are turned to their children now in the flesh than that our hearts are turned to them." (Melvin J. Ballard, Crusader for Righteousness, p. 219)

We often wonder if our ancestors will accept the gospel.  Ironically, in many instances, they accepted it before we did.  Their prayers and faithfulness have brought the gospel into our lives instead of the other way around.  Officiating in the temple for them is a deep expression of our gratitude and helps bind us to them.

If we are in tune, they will also help us as we try to locate the documents that record their names.  As Elder Ballard said: "They know where their records are, and....the spirit and influence of your dead will guide those who are interested in finding those records...  If there is anywhere on the earth anything concerning them, you will find it...  If we have done our best and have searched and have discovered all that is available then the day will come when God will open and part the veil, and the records... will be revealed.  (Bryant S. Hinckley, Sermons and Missionary Services of Melvin Joseph Ballard, p. 230)