The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently announced exciting developments related to its Temple Square renovation project and the construction of new temples across the world.
On March 3, 2025, church officials revealed the southwest corner of Temple Square is now open to the public, including the Salt Lake Tabernacle and the Assembly Hall. This area had been closed for renovations, and church leaders are pleased to welcome visitors back after the Temple was shuttered for work since 2019. The reopening is expected to reinvigorate interest and engagement within the community.
Church leaders are thrilled about the significant progress made on Temple Square, which serves as the heart of the church's operations and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The renovation project aims to modernize the facilities and improve accessibility for churchgoers and tourists alike. A representative from the church noted, "The Temple has been closed for work since 2019," highlighting the lengthy undertaking involved.
Simultaneously, the church is advancing its mission of building new temples to accommodate its growing membership across the globe. A recent groundbreaking ceremony took place on March 1, 2025, for the Cali Colombia Temple, officiated by Elder Jorge T. Becerra, South America Northwest Area President. Volunteers and local members gathered to celebrate this milestone, affirming the church's continual expansion efforts.
During the ceremony, Elder Becerra expressed gratitude for the local community's support, emphasizing the importance of the new temple to the region's faithful. The enthusiastic turnout reflected the strong community bonds and the growing desire among members to have more accessible sacred spaces.
Earlier this year, on January 18, 2025, another groundbreaking was conducted for the Tacloban City Philippines Temple, led by Elder Michael B. Strong, Second Counselor in the Philippines Area Presidency. Local members joined together to commemorate this momentous occasion as they anticipate enhanced opportunities for worship and family connections through the new temple.
These temples are integral to the church's mission, providing spaces for members to make sacred covenants and unite their families for eternity, enhancing not just local congregations but the church globally.
Each of these events showcases the church's commitment to service and growth, with renovations revitalizing historical landmarks and new constructions meeting the needs of exponentially increasing congregations.
Both the updates on Temple Square and the new temple constructions signal the church's proactive approach to nurturing its members and making sacred spaces more available. Leaders believe these facilities will deepen the faith and engagement of those within their communities.
Church officials are optimistic about the impact these developments will have on future generations, encouraging families and individuals to access resources and experience the blessings these spaces provide. The expansion aligns with their goal to reach every individual yearning for connection and faith.
With these projects underway, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to demonstrate its long-term commitment to inspiring individuals and families and enhancing their experiences through accessible spaces for worship and community involvement. Celebrations surrounding the groundbreaking of new temples make clear the church isn’t slowing its growth but is instead eager to serve more congregations around the world.