The pioneers were traveling based on their faith in Jesus Christ. Why else would people travel so many miles through the wilderness, and with so much hardship. They also traveled so they could complete a House to the Lord. As many as possible completed their temple covenants in Nauvoo before they had to abandon the building. They were anxious to continue the work, and used the Endowment House before the temple was completed. In fact three temples were completed, St. George, Logan and Salt Lake City.
