News Release

Ethiopians Enjoy Temple Experience

Members of the Meganogna Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located in the suburbs of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia shared their temple experience in a sacrament meeting. It was an occasion to celebrate the spirit and purpose of the temple in the lives of Latter Day Saints.

A temple group from the Meganogna Branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located in the suburbs of Addis Ababa, had just returned from a four-day trip to the Accra, Ghana Temple. The three families shared their testimonies on July 23, 2018 at sacrament meeting. A young woman spoke first in Amharic with her brother translating to English and then switched roles so all members could understand. The temple attendees were told that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and they must make the most of the temple trip.

             

They spoke of how they filled their days of attending sessions and doing baptisms for their grandparents and sealing families together. They mentioned the temple workers were from many countries. The attendees were taught by the special Spirit there and learned so much.

Preparing for the temple trip is not always easy—it takes sacrifice to get there and preparation takes time. Prospective temple goers take temple classes in preparation for their upcoming attendance and must have a temple recommend, issued by the local branch president. White clothing must be purchased, and immigration requirements met. The Ghana temple is not the closest temple, but because of immigration laws it has become the temple for Ethiopians. Driving the 6,000 km to Ghana would require passing through five other African countries—flying takes 6 hours.

 

The Accra Ghana Temple became the 117th operating temple of the Church in 2003. The temple was open temporarily to the general public on December 3-20th, 2003, as all temples have a tour for the community. The temple’s interior is finished in native materials and the work of skilled craftsman of the area that reflect the culture.

Today The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have 159 operating temples around the world and more under construction and announced to be built. Nairobi Kenya Temple was announced in 2017. With the announcement of the Nairobi Kenya Temple, the number of temples either planned, operating or under construction in Africa is now eight.

See the video of one young man’s visit to the Ghana Temple:

              

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