Here’s my question: If Mormons believe that those who have never heard the gospel and therefore haven’t had a chance to be saved can be saved by their ceremony and prayer, why don’t they just pray for everyone on earth right now and be sure all are covered?
See the discussion on this thread:
In order to reach the goal of eternal life and exaltation and godhood, one must be initiated into the kingdom by baptism, properly performed; one must receive the Holy Ghost by the laying on of authoritative hands; a man must be ordained to the priesthood by authorized priesthood holders; one must be endowed and sealed in the house of God by the prophet who holds the keys or by one of those to whom the keys have been delegated; and one must live a life of righteousness, cleanliness, purity and service. None can enter into eternal life other than by the correct door—Jesus Christ and his commandments.16 Spencer W. Kimball former LDS church president.