Silhouette, Yep, you're right of course. Joseph Smith didn't "make" a religion, but it often 'seems' to be that way, because the order of things was restored, after it didn't exist for 1800 years. Regarding the original poster's worry about his testimony being shaken and the temple endowment session disturbing him... Go talk to the temple president, all of them I have known are wonderful, kind, loving men. He will help you. I was baptized 6 years ago, and just recently have I come to a better understanding of the temple endowment session, and felt that it is a blessed experience. Now, it might have taken me so long because I have issues (anxiety, etc) that prevented me from truly enjoying the experience. Now I can't get to the temple enough. One thing to keep on mind is: Don't worry about having all the answers right now. The temple is different, it doesn't have (nor should it have) a manual laying out the whole thing, and the reasons behind everything. I learn something new every time I go. Also, life experience helps. What I mean is, as you grow in life and life circumstances burden you, as they surely will, the temple becomes the one place you are truly "at home". But that's just my perspective. Oh, one more thing, about Testimony. Again, just my perspective... don't worry about having a Rock Solid, All Knowing, Without Doubt Testimony. It takes time. Do you believe in Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, & the Holy Ghost? Do you believe Jesus came down to Earth to redeem us? Do you believe in the scriptures and have a good (masters degree level not needed) understanding and belief in the Book of Mormon? Do you want to learn and study and grow your knowledge? Yep? Then I say, go on your mission. From all I understand, the mission, while it's main goal is indeed to bring people to the true gospel, a secondary thing that happens is... The Elder or Sister on the mission Grows Up and becomes wiser overall. It sets a strong life foundation.