Church Loses Another Emeritus General Authority

The Church News today reported the death of Emeritus General Authority Seventy Elder John R. Lasater, who died at the age of 85. As the first retired Air Force General to serve as a General Authority, he filled many prestigious assignments both during his military days, and even more so during his brief tenure as a GA Seventy. You can read more about this remarkable man's life, career, and service in this article. You can also review his one conference talk, which can be found here. That talk was given when I was not yet two, so I have no memory of it, but it does sound like it was a great address. My prayer is that that peace "which passes all understanding" may be with the Lasater family as they remember the memories they have had with him, and that their sorrow at his passing may be transformed into a celebration of life. Any of you who might want to comment on this are welcome to do so, if you are able. And if it turns out that I have not yet properly fixed that problem, please let me know via e-mail. Thanks to you all for your interest and support.

Additional Temple News and Developments/Updated Report/Additional revisions may be necessary

Hello, all! When i again checked the LDS Church Temple's construction status page, I found that the completion estimate for the Durban South Africa Temple had changed from "mid-to-late 2018" to "late 2018". I have also updated some other information on my report of that construction progress, so I felt it was worth passing along. In the coming days, as I am able to, I will be revisiting my timeline for upcoming temple-related events. In the meantime, I wanted to note that I am actively involved in continuing to check several times daily for updates, and I will continue to do my best to pass any updates along as I find out about them. For now, here is that updated report.

Temple Construction Progress Update (current as of 6/14/17)

NOTE: There will be a total of 182 operating temples once all of those announced, under construction, or undergoing renovation. Of those, we currently have 156 temples in operation; 1 has an open house ongoing (with a dedication set for August); 2 more have construction concluding and a dedication scheduled for later this year; 9 are under construction right now; 1 other has construction pending (groundbreaking was last year), and will commence construction ASAP; 2 others are undergoing renovation; another 4 have a renovation closure date set, with 2 others set to close early next year (the actual dates will be set closer to the time); the remaining 13 are announced (with either a site announcement or groundbreaking pending).

NOTE: I learned over the weekend of May 12-15 that there is a possibility we could see more groundbreakings later this year. I will be keeping my eyes open for any temple-related news and will post those as I hear of them. For now, this is a correction from what I had previously reported.

Construction completed; open house tours underway:

157. Tucson Arizona Temple: Public open house tours underway (will run until June 24, Sundays excluded); dedication scheduled for Sunday August 13, 2017.

Construction nearing completion; dedication scheduled:

158. Meridian Idaho Temple: Interior finish work underway; laying sod and planting trees in parking area; dedication scheduled for Sunday November 19, 2017.

159. Cedar City Utah Temple: Exterior lighting tests underway; dedication scheduled for Sunday December 10, 2017.

                                                      

Under Construction (completion anticipated next year):

160. Rome Italy Temple: Interior and exterior work progressing; installing art glass windows; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

161. Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple: Attaching insulating block and laying brick over south and west walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

162.  Barranquilla Colombia Temple: Stone cladding underway on north and east walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

NOTE: For the three temples above, they seem to be interchangeable in terms of which one might potentially be completed and dedicated first. I am trying to keep an eye on any and all developments and will adjust these estimates as necessary once more is known.

163. Concepcion Chile Temple: Scaffolding removed from north wall; cladding progressing on west and south walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

164. Durban South Africa Temple: Preparing to pour upper façade walls of temple; scaffolding going up around upper level of meetinghouse; completion anticipated sometime during late 2018.

NOTE: While I originally was thinking and had stated that the Concepcion and Durban temples might be interchangeable in terms of when they might be completed and subsequently dedicated. When I rechecked the LDS Church Temples site during the later hours of June 14, it had changed the estimate for Durban to sometime late next year, instead of during the middle or latter part of that same year, as previously thought. It shouldn’t affect my estimate for the time-frame of this completion, as I had predicted that this event would take place in December. But I am doing my best to analyze all of these developments and will provide updated information as I receive it.

Under construction, completion anticipated within the next 2-3 years:            

165. Fortaleza Brazil Temple: Tower base walls poured; scaffolding removed; completion anticipated sometime during early 2019.

166. Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple: Preparing to pour footings for foundation; surrounding property being cleared and graded; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: As I have previously observed, this temple and the temple in Winnipeg appeared to be interchangeable until just recently. With no progress having been reported on Canada’s newest temple, unless things change drastically, this Rio temple will no doubt be completed first. More to come once more is known.

168.  Lisbon Portugal Temple: Temple foundation work continues; running utility lines; laying brick exterior walls for meetinghouse; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

169. Arequipa Peru Temple: Footings poured; setting concrete forms for foundation walls; completion anticipated sometime during late 2019-early 2020.

Construction pending (anticipated to start anytime):

167. Winnipeg Manitoba Temple: Groundbreaking held Saturday December 3, 2016; awaiting full-scale operations; acquiring building permits; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: As full-scale construction commencement is still pending on this temple, all that we know at the moment is that construction will take roughly 20 months (1.67 years) once it commences in full, and that this temple is being built to serve just the one stake in Winnipeg for the moment. Until construction starts in earnest, the completion date is hard to pin down. That full-scale construction may have already started, but that is difficult to ascertain. With the information known right now, mid-2019 is a very rough estimate for this temple’s completion. It would not surprise me in the least if this temple is not dedicated until 2020. Adjustments will be made once more is known. For now, this is an update from what I had previously reported.

           

Undergoing Renovation (rededication anticipated within the next year or so):

20. Jordan River Utah Temple: Closed for renovation; rededication anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

NOTE: On June 14, the LDS Church Temples site changed the completion estimation for this renovation to mid-2018. Since we know that temples in the US, particularly renovations, are usually finished more quickly than their international counterparts or new temples, it is unclear for the moment which temple-related event is most likely to happen first. I am doing my best to analyze these developments and will pass along any updates as soon as I can.

41. Frankfurt Germany Temple: Closed for renovation; excavating for basement addition for new baptistry; rededication anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

NOTE: On June 14, the LDS Church Temples site changed the completion estimation for this renovation to mid-2018. Since we know that renovations are generally completed more quickly than new temples, whether within the US or elsewhere, it is hard at the moment to try and figure out what the actual sequence of events may be for next year. I am analyzing these developments as quickly as possible and will be sure to post with any updates ASAP.

Renovations Scheduled (official closure dates announced):

112. Asuncion Paraguay Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: As noted earlier this month, though the First Presidency originally set November as the closure month for this temple, it was later officially confirmed that the closure would happen before the end of September. I additionally found out that this temple is at the top of the list of planned renovations only because it comes first alphabetically. So, in spite of the fact that I had recently changed my estimate for this temple’s completion, it made sense to restore my original thinking, and I am even more convinced now that this temple will likely not be rededicated until after the rededication of the Oakland California temple, as the work on temples within the US (whether new or being renovated) is almost always completed ahead of that of their international counterparts. If necessary, I will revise this estimate once more is known.

80. Memphis Tennessee Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during early 2019.

NOTE: While I had, after rethinking things, adjusted my completion estimate for this temple, I restored my original estimate because, as we know, renovations of US temples are usually completed more quickly than their international counterparts. So I have no doubt that this temple will be the first one to be rededicated in 2019.

18. Tokyo Japan Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2020.

NOTE: Because Tokyo is so far ahead of the United States or South America time-wise, it will probably be the first of these three to close, but it appears in this position on this report because it is the last alphabetically. As we also know that this renovation will only be completed sometime in 2020, and as this temple is outside the US, I am more convinced than ever that this temple’s rededication will not take place until sometime after that of the Washington DC Temple, which is set to close in about nine months.

95. Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on October 14, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: While this temple is the last of the four that will close for renovation by the end of this year, it is nonetheless a temple within the US, which makes it more than likely that its subsequent rededication will follow that of the Memphis Tennessee temple, and will precede those of the Oakland California and Asuncion Paraguay temples.

Temples that have a renovation closure announced, but no official date made known yet:

13. Oakland California Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation in February 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: The renovation for this temple, (the oldest of those scheduled for renovations) is anticipated to be completed in 2019 sometime. The timeframe indicated above therefore seems reasonable, as is also the assumption that this temple will be rededicated before the Paraguayan one.

16. Washington D. C. Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation in March 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-2020.

NOTE: This temple, the last one currently scheduled for renovation, is anticipated to be completed sometime during 2020. Because we know that US temple renovations are completed more quickly, it is relatively safe to assume that the rededication of this temple will happen sometime prior to that of the Tokyo Japan Temple.

NOTE: As mentioned above, I learned during mid-May that we might have as many as 4 temples that could potentially have a groundbreaking later this year. The chances are equally likely that no other groundbreakings will happen until sometime in 2018. As with every other temple-related development, I am doing my best to reevaluate things as more information comes to light, and I will be sure to pass along any updates. In the meantime, this is mostly just my own thoughts and impressions based on what I have learned and observed. It is my most sincere and fervent hope that no one who reads these estimates will ever take them as gospel or as set in stone. Nothing is official until the Brethren make it so. I hope that will be abundantly clear in how these estimates are worded. Bearing that in mind, these are my revised thoughts:

Announced:

170. Harare Zimbabwe Temple: Approval and construction preparation phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: We only have the indication from Elder Hamilton that a site announcement for this temple would occur this year, and that a groundbreaking might follow shortly thereafter. As I always prefer to think and speak optimistically, if a site is announced within the next short while, a groundbreaking may follow on or around Saturday August 26. If the Lord and the Brethren have a different time-frame for these events, there will need to be an adjustment. More to come once more is known.

171. Port-au-Prince Haiti Temple: Planning and approval phase; groundbreaking may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: With a site being confirmed for this temple last March, the groundbreaking could happen later this year. We may even see this groundbreaking happen before any announcement on the Zimbabwe temple. On its own merits, it seems entirely possible to believe that a groundbreaking could be set for this temple for Saturday September 16, but that will depend entirely on if the Lord and the Brethren decide it needs to happen at around that time. As with everything else, more information will be given once more is known.

172. Urdaneta Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting government approval and official site announcement; groundbreaking could happen sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: This temple, the oldest of those announced (it will mark 7 years since its’ announcement this October), has been subjected to numerous delays. With those delays over, there is an equal possibility that a groundbreaking for this temple could happen later this year or sometime next year. As I always prefer to be optimistic, I feel safe in venturing Saturday October 14 as a potential date for this groundbreaking, but that is, as always, subject to the Lord’s timing and when He inspires the Brethren to make things official. More will come once more is known.

173. Lima Peru Los Olivos Temple: Planning and preliminary construction phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: As previously noted, the contractor for this project is the one overseeing the construction of the Arequipa Peru Temple site as well. He indicated earlier this year that a year would be needed to work on the site prior to its’ groundbreaking. While we still do not know whether that year has passed already (if he meant from the announcement date) or whether he meant a year from when he made the statement, there is an equal chance that this groundbreaking will happen either later this year or early next year. Speaking optimistically, if all goes well, I can see the potential for a December 2 groundbreaking. Until the Brethren make it official, that is just my own hope.

174. Brasilia Brazil Temple: Planning phase; site confirmed.

NOTE: Knowing that this site has been confirmed by local priesthood leaders (it is located in the northern section of the city, near an arm of Paranoa Lake), we also know that a site confirmation is the hardest part of getting a temple built. Unless the site changes, it is becoming increasingly more likely that a groundbreaking will be held sometime during early-to-mid 2018. If the groundbreaking happens during that time, it will mark the first time in almost 20 years that the Church has had three temples simultaneously under construction in Brazil. I am keeping an eye on developments with this temple and will adjust this estimate as needed.

175. Greater Manila Philippines Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official name announcement.

NOTE: Unless problems arise, the site identified by the Church’s Philippines Facebook page (on the southern side of the Manila metropolitan area in Alabang, Muntinlupa City) will more than likely be the official site. As finding a site is the most complex part of getting a temple built, it is very possible that we might see a groundbreaking for this temple by early-to-mid 2018. If the groundbreaking takes place during this time, then we would have two temples simultaneously under construction in the Philippines for the very first time in Church history. It is also anticipated that the Church will announce an official name for this temple in the very near future, as the name for the second Lima Peru Temple was announced within a month after the temple announcement. As with everything else, I am keeping an eye out for developments and will provide updated information when more is known.

176. Pocatello Idaho: Planning phase; awaiting site confirmation.

NOTE: A probable site has been identified but not yet confirmed. The LDS Church Temples site noted on May 12, 2017 a statement by Elder Larry Y. Wilson, the Temple Department Executive Director, that this temple is anticipated to be a larger edifice in the mold of the temple that will be dedicated later this year in Meridian. Once more is known officially regarding the site, it will be easier to make an adjustment as to how soon the groundbreaking might take place and how long construction might subsequently take. If it is true that this temple will be similar to Meridian, we might not see a groundbreaking any sooner than mid-to-late 2018. That said, I also recognize fully that temples in the US have typically always commenced construction faster than their counterparts outside the US, so it would not surprise me if this groundbreaking happened sooner than that. As always, I am keeping an eye on developments, and I will adjust this estimate as I am able to do so once more is known.

177. Saratoga Springs Utah: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: While it is true that temples in the United States (and particularly those in Utah County) get started much more quickly than temples elsewhere, it is also true that an official site confirmation is still pending. We do know, as previously noted, that the Church owns several plots of land in this city, so if one of them is chosen as the site, the groundbreaking could happen shortly thereafter. Until more is known, it seems wise to adjust my previous estimate for a groundbreaking to sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

178. Bangkok Thailand Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: As previously noted in other versions of this construction progress report, member speculation is that an existing building might be renovated and repurposed as Thailand’s first temple and also house Church offices and a meetinghouse as well. If that speculation is confirmed anytime soon, we might see a groundbreaking shortly after. In the meantime, it might be best to revise my previous estimate and say that a groundbreaking could take place in mid-to-late 2018. More to come once more is known.

179. Abidjan Ivory Coast Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: The Church has seen substantial growth on the African continent in recent years. This is verified by the fact that, with the announcement of the 12 temples over the last three years during April General Conference, 3 (25%) of those have been in Africa. I would therefore hope that this temple, announced in 2015, would not have to wait too long for a groundbreaking, but I could see it happening sometime during early 2019, if not before.

180. Quito Ecuador Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: While the first temple in Ecuador had a 14-year delay between its announcement and the subsequent groundbreaking (the second-longest such period in Church history), this temple is not nearly as likely to see such delays. The Church in South America has grown at an astonishing rate, and that is evidenced by the fact that 4 of the 12 temples announced most recently (25%) have been for South America. With the temples above most likely to have a groundbreaking first, it is very possible that we could see a groundbreaking for this time sometime during mid-2019, if not before.

181. Belem Brazil Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: South America, as noted above, has been very receptive to the gospel. As a result, more temples are coming to that continent. And while this temple has not yet had a site identified or confirmed, Brazilian temples typically have been built very swiftly. While I am hoping to see it sooner, and while I will be happy to adjust my estimate going forward if that is necessary, it seems wise for the moment to revise my estimate and say that we could see a groundbreaking during mid-2019, which would ensure that we will have two or three temples under construction in Brazil at least for the next couple of years. I will revise my estimate if and when I am able to do so.

182. Nairobi Kenya Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: It is becoming increasingly more likely that this African temple might be the last of the current bunch to have a groundbreaking. That said, with the Church growth that is occurring on the African continent, and with temples having gone up fairly quickly once a site is identified, I will revise my previous estimate and say that we will likely see a groundbreaking for this temple sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

ADDITIONAL GENERAL NOTE: Temple announcements are possible at any time, but the last twelve announcements have taken place during the April General Conference. I never want to rule out the possibility of announcements at other times, but that has been the pattern for the last three years. There have also been reports of several cities that have had a site purchased for a while now, and where an announcement might happen at any time. I know of at least five that have been identified to me by name: Managua Nicaragua, Auckland New Zealand, Port Moresby Papua New Guinea, Bentonville Arkansas, and Missoula Montana. If other potential temples have had a site purchased, they have yet to be identified as such. The following temples have been publicly proposed by apostles at various and sundry times:  New Delhi India (in June 1992 by Elder Neal A. Maxwell; may not happen soon due to intense political and religious obstacles); Vilnius Lithuania (in May 1993 by Elder M. Russell Ballard, which may be more of a long-shot possibility); Maracaibo Venezuela (in August 1999 by President Hinckley, which is just waiting for the right conditions); Singapore (in January 2000 by President Hinckley, and is likely to be announced when the time is right); for the Southwest Salt Lake Valley (in October 2005 by President Hinckley; NOTE: While some contend that this temple announcement has already happened, verifiable sources widely available prove otherwise. A site is being held in reserve for that temple, and that location will be announced when membership and temple activity warrant that announcement); Managua Nicaragua (in January 2012 by then-Elder Russell M. Nelson; very likely at any time due to Nicaragua being the #1 of the top ten world countries without a temple); Missoula Montana (sometime in 2014 by Elder David A. Bednar during a stake conference in the area; while the report of this proposal has yet to be verified, the fact that there has been a purchase of a temple site seems to indicate that it is a most imminent possibility, though perhaps not as imminent as I once believed); and for the Kasai Region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (in February 2016 by Elder Neil L. Andersen). There are likely several other sites that the Church has purchased for a potential temple, but those have yet to be verified.

                                                                                                           

Key:

Bolded numbers and text denote temples whose numbers already exists (for renovations), or is certain due to a scheduled dedication, as well as information that is certain, such as dedication or groundbreaking dates.

Italicized numbers and text denote temples whose numbers may change based on the order in which future dedications and groundbreakings are scheduled.

Underlined numbers and text denote temples whose numbers may change based on progress towards planning, approval, and groundbreaking.

Red text highlights changes from the last posted temple progress report. 

Change in Completion Estimate for 2 renovations; more analysis needed

Hello, all! In making my multiple daily checks of Church websites, I discovered that the completion time-frame estimate for the renovations of the Jordan River Utah and Frankfurt Germany Temples has changed to mid-2018. As we also know, this is the new approximate time-frame for the completion of the new Rome Italy, Kinshasa DR Congo and Barranquilla Colombia Temples. Since this development has only come to light within the last couple of hours, I have not had time to analyze how all of this will impact my estimates, such as they are, for future temple-related events. But you can be assured that I will be doing so in the days ahead. And if and when I feel confident in doing so, I will be revisiting once again my estimated timeline for future temple-related events and will be posting those results here. Stay tuned. Just wanted to share these developments. As always, thanks for your readership and interest.

Temple Construction Progress Update

Here I am once again with the latest version of my temple construction progress report. The strides have been small albeit steady. I have also taken the liberty of rewording a few things to make it more clear that what I post are merely my own thoughts, feelings and theories, which are, as always, subject to the timetable the Lord inspires the Brethren to follow in such things. That said, some significant things have happened, and I am pleased to pass those developments along. Let me know your thoughts. Thanks.

Temple Construction Progress Update (current as of 6/13/17)

NOTE: There will be a total of 182 operating temples once all of those announced, under construction, or undergoing renovation. Of those, we currently have 156 temples in operation; 2 more have construction concluding and a dedication scheduled for later this year; 9 are under construction right now; 1 other has construction pending (groundbreaking was last year), and will commence construction ASAP; 2 others are undergoing renovation; another 4 have a renovation closure date set, with 2 others set to close early next year (the actual dates will be set closer to the time); the remaining 13 are announced (with either a site announcement or groundbreaking pending).

NOTE: I learned over the weekend of May 12-15 that there is a possibility we could see more groundbreakings later this year. I will be keeping my eyes open for any temple-related news and will post those as I hear of them. For now, this is a correction from what I had previously reported.

Construction completed; open house tours underway:

157. Tucson Arizona Temple: Public open house tours underway (will run until June 24, Sundays excluded); dedication scheduled for Sunday August 13, 2017.

Construction nearing completion; dedication scheduled:

158. Meridian Idaho Temple: Interior finish work underway; laying sod and planting trees in parking area; dedication scheduled for Sunday November 19, 2017.

159. Cedar City Utah Temple: Exterior lighting tests underway; dedication scheduled for Sunday December 10, 2017.

                                                      

Under Construction (completion anticipated next year):

160. Rome Italy Temple: Interior and exterior work progressing; installing art glass windows; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

161. Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple: Attaching insulating block and laying brick over south and west walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

162.  Barranquilla Colombia Temple: Stone cladding underway on north and east walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

NOTE: For the three temples above, they seem to be interchangeable in terms of which one might potentially be completed and dedicated first. I am trying to keep an eye on any and all developments and will adjust these estimates as necessary once more is known.

163. Concepcion Chile Temple: Scaffolding removed from north wall; cladding progressing on west and south walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

164. Durban South Africa Temple: Preparing to pour front and rear façade walls of temple; scaffolding going up around upper level of meetinghouse; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

NOTE: For the two temples above, they seem to be interchangeable in terms of which one might potentially be completed and dedicated first. I am trying to keep an eye on any and all developments and will adjust these estimates as necessary once more is known.

Under construction, completion anticipated within the next 2-3 years:            

165. Fortaleza Brazil Temple: Tower base walls poured; scaffolding removed; completion anticipated sometime during early 2019.

166. Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple: Preparing to pour footings for foundation; surrounding property being cleared and graded; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: As I have previously observed, this temple and the temple in Winnipeg appeared to be interchangeable until just recently. With no progress having been reported on Canada’s newest temple, unless things change drastically, this Rio temple will no doubt be completed first. More to come once more is known.

168.  Lisbon Portugal Temple: Temple foundation work continues; running utility lines; laying brick exterior walls for meetinghouse; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

169. Arequipa Peru Temple: Footings poured; setting concrete forms for foundation walls; completion anticipated sometime during late 2019-early 2020.

Construction pending (anticipated to start anytime):

167. Winnipeg Manitoba Temple: Groundbreaking held Saturday December 3, 2016; awaiting full-scale operations; acquiring building permits; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: As noted above in relation to the Rio temple, unless earnest construction begins on this temple within the next couple of weeks or so, I think it is safer to assume and to assert now that Rio will be finished first. More to come once more is known.

           

Undergoing Renovation (rededication anticipated within the next year or so):

20. Jordan River Utah Temple: Closed for renovation; rededication anticipated sometime during early-to-mid 2018.

NOTE: With the recent news that the Rome Italy temple will likely not be finished until the middle of next year, it is becoming increasingly more likely that the rededication of this temple will indeed be the first temple-related event of next year. I am trying to analyze these developments as quickly as I possibly can, and will adjust my estimates accordingly as more information comes to light.

41. Frankfurt Germany Temple: Closed for renovation; excavating for basement addition for new baptistry; rededication anticipated sometime during early-to mid-2018.

NOTE: It is becoming increasingly more likely that this event may be the second temple-related event next year, unless some groundbreakings take place first. Bearing in mind that rededications are more unpredictable than the dedication of new temples, I will be analyzing these developments as quickly as possible and will attempt to adjust such estimates before the end of this week. More to come once more is known.

Renovations Scheduled (official closure dates announced):

112. Asuncion Paraguay Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: As noted earlier this month, though the First Presidency originally set November as the closure month for this temple, it was later officially confirmed that the closure would happen before the end of September. I additionally found out that this temple is at the top of the list of planned renovations only because it comes first alphabetically. So, in spite of the fact that I had recently changed my estimate for this temple’s completion, it made sense to restore my original thinking, and I am even more convinced now that this temple will likely not be rededicated until after the rededication of the Oakland California temple, as the work on temples within the US (whether new or being renovated) is almost always completed ahead of that of their international counterparts. If necessary, I will revise this estimate once more is known.

80. Memphis Tennessee Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during early 2019.

NOTE: While I had, after rethinking things, adjusted my completion estimate for this temple, I restored my original estimate because, as we know, renovations of US temples are usually completed more quickly than their international counterparts. So I have no doubt that this temple will be the first one to be rededicated in 2019.

18. Tokyo Japan Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2020.

NOTE: Because Tokyo is so far ahead of the United States or South America time-wise, it will probably be the first of these three to close, but it appears in this position on this report because it is the last alphabetically. As we also know that this renovation will only be completed sometime in 2020, and as this temple is outside the US, I am more convinced than ever that this temple’s rededication will not take place until sometime after that of the Washington DC Temple, which is set to close in about nine months.

95. Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on October 14, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: While this temple is the last of the four that will close for renovation by the end of this year, it is nonetheless a temple within the US, which makes it more than likely that its subsequent rededication will follow that of the Memphis Tennessee temple, and will precede those of the Oakland California and Asuncion Paraguay temples.

Temples that have a renovation closure announced, but no official date made known yet:

13. Oakland California Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation in February 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: The renovation for this temple, (the oldest of those scheduled for renovations) is anticipated to be completed in 2019 sometime. The timeframe indicated above therefore seems reasonable, as is also the assumption that this temple will be rededicated before the Paraguayan one.

16. Washington D. C. Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation in March 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-2020.

NOTE: This temple, the last one currently scheduled for renovation, is anticipated to be completed sometime during 2020. Because we know that US temple renovations are completed more quickly, it is relatively safe to assume that the rededication of this temple will happen sometime prior to that of the Tokyo Japan Temple.

NOTE: As mentioned above, I learned during mid-May that we might have as many as 4 temples that could potentially have a groundbreaking later this year. The chances are equally likely that no other groundbreakings will happen until sometime in 2018. As with every other temple-related development, I am doing my best to reevaluate things as more information comes to light, and I will be sure to pass along any updates. In the meantime, this is mostly just my own thoughts and impressions based on what I have learned and observed. It is my most sincere and fervent hope that no one who reads these estimates will ever take them as gospel or as set in stone. Nothing is official until the Brethren make it so. I hope that will be abundantly clear in how these estimates are worded. Bearing that in mind, these are my revised thoughts:

Announced:

170. Harare Zimbabwe Temple: Approval and construction preparation phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: We only have the indication from Elder Hamilton that a site announcement for this temple would occur this year, and that a groundbreaking might follow shortly thereafter. As I always prefer to think and speak optimistically, if a site is announced within the next short while, a groundbreaking may follow on or around Saturday August 26. If the Lord and the Brethren have a different time-frame for these events, there will need to be an adjustment. More to come once more is known.

171. Port-au-Prince Haiti Temple: Planning and approval phase; groundbreaking may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: With a site being confirmed for this temple last March, the groundbreaking could happen later this year. We may even see this groundbreaking happen before any announcement on the Zimbabwe temple. On its own merits, it seems entirely possible to believe that a groundbreaking could be set for this temple for Saturday September 16, but that will depend entirely on if the Lord and the Brethren decide it needs to happen at around that time. As with everything else, more information will be given once more is known.

172. Urdaneta Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting government approval and official site announcement; groundbreaking could happen sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: This temple, the oldest of those announced (it will mark 7 years since its’ announcement this October), has been subjected to numerous delays. With those delays over, there is an equal possibility that a groundbreaking for this temple could happen later this year or sometime next year. As I always prefer to be optimistic, I feel safe in venturing Saturday October 14 as a potential date for this groundbreaking, but that is, as always, subject to the Lord’s timing and when He inspires the Brethren to make things official. More will come once more is known.

173. Lima Peru Los Olivos Temple: Planning and preliminary construction phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: As previously noted, the contractor for this project is the one overseeing the construction of the Arequipa Peru Temple site as well. He indicated earlier this year that a year would be needed to work on the site prior to its’ groundbreaking. While we still do not know whether that year has passed already (if he meant from the announcement date) or whether he meant a year from when he made the statement, there is an equal chance that this groundbreaking will happen either later this year or early next year. Speaking optimistically, if all goes well, I can see the potential for a December 2 groundbreaking. Until the Brethren make it official, that is just my own hope.

174. Brasilia Brazil Temple: Planning phase; site confirmed.

NOTE: Knowing that this site has been confirmed by local priesthood leaders (it is located in the northern section of the city, near an arm of Paranoa Lake), we also know that a site confirmation is the hardest part of getting a temple built. Unless the site changes, it is becoming increasingly more likely that a groundbreaking will be held sometime during early-to-mid 2018. If the groundbreaking happens during that time, it will mark the first time in almost 20 years that the Church has had three temples simultaneously under construction in Brazil. I am keeping an eye on developments with this temple and will adjust this estimate as needed.

175. Greater Manila Philippines Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official name announcement.

NOTE: Unless problems arise, the site identified by the Church’s Philippines Facebook page (on the southern side of the Manila metropolitan area in Alabang, Muntinlupa City) will more than likely be the official site. As finding a site is the most complex part of getting a temple built, it is very possible that we might see a groundbreaking for this temple by early-to-mid 2018. If the groundbreaking takes place during this time, then we would have two temples simultaneously under construction in the Philippines for the very first time in Church history. It is also anticipated that the Church will announce an official name for this temple in the very near future, as the name for the second Lima Peru Temple was announced within a month after the temple announcement. As with everything else, I am keeping an eye out for developments and will provide updated information when more is known.

176. Pocatello Idaho: Planning phase; awaiting site confirmation.

NOTE: A probable site has been identified but not yet confirmed. The LDS Church Temples site noted on May 12, 2017 a statement by Elder Larry Y. Wilson, the Temple Department Executive Director, that this temple is anticipated to be a larger edifice in the mold of the temple that will be dedicated later this year in Meridian. Once more is known officially regarding the site, it will be easier to make an adjustment as to how soon the groundbreaking might take place and how long construction might subsequently take. If it is true that this temple will be similar to Meridian, we might not see a groundbreaking any sooner than mid-to-late 2018. That said, I also recognize fully that temples in the US have typically always commenced construction faster than their counterparts outside the US, so it would not surprise me if this groundbreaking happened sooner than that. As always, I am keeping an eye on developments, and I will adjust this estimate as I am able to do so once more is known.

177. Saratoga Springs Utah: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: While it is true that temples in the United States (and particularly those in Utah County) get started much more quickly than temples elsewhere, it is also true that an official site confirmation is still pending. We do know, as previously noted, that the Church owns several plots of land in this city, so if one of them is chosen as the site, the groundbreaking could happen shortly thereafter. Until more is known, it seems wise to adjust my previous estimate for a groundbreaking to sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

178. Bangkok Thailand Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: As previously noted in other versions of this construction progress report, member speculation is that an existing building might be renovated and repurposed as Thailand’s first temple and also house Church offices and a meetinghouse as well. If that speculation is confirmed anytime soon, we might see a groundbreaking shortly after. In the meantime, it might be best to revise my previous estimate and say that a groundbreaking could take place in mid-to-late 2018. More to come once more is known.

179. Abidjan Ivory Coast Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: The Church has seen substantial growth on the African continent in recent years. This is verified by the fact that, with the announcement of the 12 temples over the last three years during April General Conference, 3 (25%) of those have been in Africa. I would therefore hope that this temple, announced in 2015, would not have to wait too long for a groundbreaking, but I could see it happening sometime during early 2019, if not before.

180. Quito Ecuador Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: While the first temple in Ecuador had a 14-year delay between its announcement and the subsequent groundbreaking (the second-longest such period in Church history), this temple is not nearly as likely to see such delays. The Church in South America has grown at an astonishing rate, and that is evidenced by the fact that 4 of the 12 temples announced most recently (25%) have been for South America. With the temples above most likely to have a groundbreaking first, it is very possible that we could see a groundbreaking for this time sometime during mid-2019, if not before.

181. Belem Brazil Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: South America, as noted above, has been very receptive to the gospel. As a result, more temples are coming to that continent. And while this temple has not yet had a site identified or confirmed, Brazilian temples typically have been built very swiftly. While I am hoping to see it sooner, and while I will be happy to adjust my estimate going forward if that is necessary, it seems wise for the moment to revise my estimate and say that we could see a groundbreaking during mid-2019, which would ensure that we will have two or three temples under construction in Brazil at least for the next couple of years. I will revise my estimate if and when I am able to do so.

182. Nairobi Kenya Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: It is becoming increasingly more likely that this African temple might be the last of the current bunch to have a groundbreaking. That said, with the Church growth that is occurring on the African continent, and with temples having gone up fairly quickly once a site is identified, I will revise my previous estimate and say that we will likely see a groundbreaking for this temple sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

ADDITIONAL GENERAL NOTE: Temple announcements are possible at any time, but the last twelve announcements have taken place during the April General Conference. I never want to rule out the possibility of announcements at other times, but that has been the pattern for the last three years. There have also been reports of several cities that have had a site purchased for a while now, and where an announcement might happen at any time. I know of at least five that have been identified to me by name: Managua Nicaragua, Auckland New Zealand, Port Moresby Papua New Guinea, Bentonville Arkansas, and Missoula Montana. If other potential temples have had a site purchased, they have yet to be identified as such. The following temples have been publicly proposed by apostles at various and sundry times:  New Delhi India (in June 1992 by Elder Neal A. Maxwell; may not happen soon due to intense political and religious obstacles); Vilnius Lithuania (in May 1993 by Elder M. Russell Ballard, which may be more of a long-shot possibility); Maracaibo Venezuela (in August 1999 by President Hinckley, which is just waiting for the right conditions); Singapore (in January 2000 by President Hinckley, and is likely to be announced when the time is right); for the Southwest Salt Lake Valley (in October 2005 by President Hinckley; NOTE: While some contend that this temple announcement has already happened, verifiable sources widely available prove otherwise. A site is being held in reserve for that temple, and that location will be announced when membership and temple activity warrant that announcement); Managua Nicaragua (in January 2012 by then-Elder Russell M. Nelson; very likely at any time due to Nicaragua being the #1 of the top ten world countries without a temple); Missoula Montana (sometime in 2014 by Elder David A. Bednar during a stake conference in the area; while the report of this proposal has yet to be verified, the fact that there has been a purchase of a temple site seems to indicate that it is a most imminent possibility, though perhaps not as imminent as I once believed); and for the Kasai Region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (in February 2016 by Elder Neil L. Andersen). There are likely several other sites that the Church has purchased for a potential temple, but those have yet to be verified.

                                                                                                           

Key:

Bolded numbers and text denote temples whose numbers already exists (for renovations), or is certain due to a scheduled dedication, as well as information that is certain, such as dedication or groundbreaking dates.

Italicized numbers and text denote temples whose numbers may change based on the order in which future dedications and groundbreakings are scheduled.

Underlined numbers and text denote temples whose numbers may change based on progress towards planning, approval, and groundbreaking.

Red text highlights changes from the last posted temple progress report.

Temple Construction Progress Update

Hello, all! I have been keeping a low profile over the last several days to rest and try to regroup from the oral infection with which I have been struggling for the last month or so. Additionally, I have been trying to do what I can for the anxiety and depression with which I have been battling as well. I have taken time every day to visit my favorite Church sites and keep up on the latest news and information, though I have not really posted any updates in that regard over the last several days.

Sometime in the near future, I will post with the latest on that. In the meantime, my purpose for posting today is to provide an update on some temple-related developments. There has been a lot going on in that regard, and it has been hard to keep up on in the midst of everything else, but my latest report follows. If any of you are able to and would care to, please leave me your thoughts. If any of you have trouble commenting still, please let me know via e-mail, and we will go from there. In the meantime, I did want to note that all developments since the last posted report are highlighted in red, and there are quite a few of them. Enjoy!

Temple Construction Progress Update (current as of 6/8/17)

NOTE: There will be a total of 182 operating temples once all of those announced, under construction, or undergoing renovation. Of those, we currently have 156 temples in operation; 2 more have construction concluding and a dedication scheduled for later this year; 9 are under construction right now; 1 other has construction pending (groundbreaking was last year), and will commence construction ASAP; 2 others are undergoing renovation; another 4 have a renovation closure date set, with 2 others set to close early next year (the actual dates will be set closer to the time); the remaining 13 are announced (with either a site announcement or groundbreaking pending).

NOTE: I learned over the weekend of May 12-15 that there is a possibility we could see more groundbreakings later this year. I will be keeping my eyes open for any temple-related news and will post those as I hear of them. For now, this is a correction from what I had previously reported.

Construction completed; open house tours underway:

157. Tucson Arizona Temple: Public open house tours underway (will run until June 24, Sundays excluded); dedication scheduled for Sunday August 13, 2017.

Construction nearing completion; dedication scheduled:

158. Meridian Idaho Temple: Interior finish work underway; laying sod and planting trees in parking area; dedication scheduled for Sunday November 19, 2017.

159. Cedar City Utah Temple: Exterior lighting test begin; dedication scheduled for Sunday December 10, 2017.

                                                      

Under Construction (completion anticipated next year):

160. Rome Italy Temple: Interior and exterior work progressing; installing art glass windows; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

161. Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple: Attaching insulating block and laying brick over south and west walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

162.  Barranquilla Colombia Temple: Stone cladding underway on north and east walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2018.

NOTE: For the three temples above, they seem to be interchangeable in terms of which one might potentially be completed and dedicated first. I am trying to keep an eye on any and all developments and will adjust these estimates as necessary once more is known.

163. Concepcion Chile Temple: Scaffolding removed from north wall; cladding progressing on west and south walls; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

164. Durban South Africa Temple: Elevator shafts and a majority of upper temple walls poured; upper floor slab poured for missionary housing; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

NOTE: For the two temples above, they seem to be interchangeable in terms of which one might potentially be completed and dedicated first. I am trying to keep an eye on any and all developments and will adjust these estimates as necessary once more is known.

Under construction, completion anticipated within the next 2-3 years:            

165. Fortaleza Brazil Temple: Tower base walls poured; scaffolding removed; completion anticipated sometime during early 2019.

166. Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple: Preparing to pour footings for foundation; surrounding property being cleared and graded; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: As I have previously observed, this temple and the temple in Winnipeg appeared to be interchangeable until just recently. With no progress having been reported on Canada’s newest temple, unless things change drastically, this Rio temple will no doubt be completed first. More to come once more is known.

168.  Lisbon Portugal Temple: Temple foundation work continues; running utility lines; laying brick exterior walls for meetinghouse; completion anticipated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

169. Arequipa Peru Temple: Footings poured; setting concrete forms for foundation walls; completion anticipated sometime during late 2019-early 2020.

Construction pending (anticipated to start anytime):

167. Winnipeg Manitoba Temple: Groundbreaking held Saturday December 3, 2016; awaiting full-scale operations; acquiring building permits; completion anticipated sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: As noted above in relation to the Rio temple, unless earnest construction begins on this temple within the next couple of weeks or so, I think it is safer to assume and to assert now that Rio will be finished first. More to come once more is known.

           

Undergoing Renovation (rededication anticipated within the next year or so):

20. Jordan River Utah Temple: Closed for renovation; rededication anticipated sometime during early-to-mid 2018.

NOTE: With the recent news that the Rome Italy temple will likely not be finished until the middle of next year, it is becoming increasingly more likely that the rededication of this temple will indeed be the first temple-related event of next year. I am trying to analyze these developments as quickly as I possibly can, and will adjust my estimates accordingly as more information comes to light.

41. Frankfurt Germany Temple: Closed for renovation; excavating for basement addition for new baptistry; rededication anticipated sometime during early-to mid-2018.

NOTE: It is becoming increasingly more likely that this event may be the second temple-related event next year, unless some groundbreakings take place first. Bearing in mind that rededications are more unpredictable than the dedication of new temples, I will be analyzing these developments over the weekend and will attempt to adjust things after that. More to come once more is known.

Renovations Scheduled (official closure dates announced):

112. Asuncion Paraguay Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: As noted a few days ago, though the First Presidency originally set November as the closure month for this temple, it was later officially confirmed that the closure would happen before the end of September. I additionally found out that this temple is at the top of the list of planned renovations because it comes first alphabetically. So, in spite of the fact that I had recently changed my estimate for this temple’s completion, it made sense to restore my original thinking, and I am even more convinced now that this temple will likely not be rededicated until after the rededication of the Oakland California temple, as the work on temples within the US (whether new or being renovated) is almost always completed ahead of that of their international counterparts. If necessary, I will revise this estimate once more is known.

80. Memphis Tennessee Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during early 2019.

NOTE: While I had, after rethinking things, adjusted my completion estimate for this temple, I restored my original estimate because, as we know, renovations of US temples are usually completed more quickly than their international counterparts. So I have no doubt that this temple will be the first one to be rededicated in 2019.

18. Tokyo Japan Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on September 29, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2020.

NOTE: Because Tokyo is so far ahead of the United States or South America time-wise, it will probably be the first of these three to close, but it appears in this position on this report because it is the last alphabetically. As we also know that this renovation will only be completed sometime in 2020, and as this temple is outside the US, I am more convinced than ever that this temple’s rededication will not take place until sometime after that of the Washington DC Temple, which is set to close in about nine months.

95. Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on October 14, 2017; rededication may take place sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: While this temple is the last of the four that will close for renovation by the end of this year, it is nonetheless a temple within the US, which makes it more than likely that its subsequent rededication will follow that of the Memphis Tennessee temple, and will precede those of the Oakland California and Asuncion Paraguay temples.

Temples that have a renovation closure announced, but no official date made known yet:

13. Oakland California Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation in February 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: The renovation for this temple, (the oldest of those scheduled for renovations) is anticipated to be completed in 2019 sometime. The timeframe indicated above therefore seems reasonable, as is also the assumption that this temple will be rededicated before the Paraguayan one.

16. Washington D. C. Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation in March 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-2020.

NOTE: This temple, the last one currently scheduled for renovation, is anticipated to be completed sometime during 2020. Because we know that US temple renovations are completed more quickly, it is relatively safe to assume that the rededication of this temple will happen sometime prior to that of the Tokyo Japan Temple.

NOTE: As mentioned above, I learned earlier this month that we might have as many as 4 temples that could potentially have a groundbreaking later this year. The chances are equally likely that no other groundbreakings will happen until sometime in 2018. As with every other temple-related development, I am doing my best to reevaluate things as more information comes to light, and I will be sure to pass along any updates. In the meantime, this is mostly just my own thoughts and impressions based on what I have learned and observed.

Announced:

170. Harare Zimbabwe Temple: Approval and construction preparation phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: Though we have Elder Hamilton’s statement to the effect that a site announcement and groundbreaking for Zimbabwe’s first temple would take place during this year, all we know right now is that further developments are pending. Things have been known to happen quickly for other temples, so I have felt confident that a site announcement could happen within the next couple of months, and that a groundbreaking could follow on or around August 26. That said, nothing is official until the Brethren make it so, so adjustments will be made as more is revealed.

171. Port-au-Prince Haiti Temple: Planning and approval phase; groundbreaking may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: Since a site confirmation happened for this temple last March, a groundbreaking could happen anytime soon. I could even see the Church scheduling that before anything official happens for Zimbabwe’s first temple. That said, most sources I have found seem to agree that the Zimbabwe groundbreaking will happen first. Whether or not it does, I could see the Church breaking ground for Haiti’s first temple on or around September 16. Until the Brethren make it official, that is merely a hope on my part. Adjustments will be made as more information is available.

172. Urdaneta Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting government approval and official site announcement; groundbreaking could happen sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: This temple is the oldest of those that have not progressed beyond an announcement. A variety of factors stalled any developments from happening before now. With those factors having being cleared up, I have heard that a groundbreaking could happen this year or next year. Speaking optimistically, I could see the Church setting October 14 as the date for that groundbreaking. Those are just my own thoughts, however, and adjustments will be made once more is known.

173. Lima Peru Los Olivos Temple: Planning and preliminary construction phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could take place sometime during mid-to-late 2017.

NOTE: As I have stated in previous versions of this report, the contractor working on the Arequipa Peru temple will oversee this temple’s construction as well. He indicated recently that it would take a year to make the necessary plans for this project. What is still unclear is whether that was one year from the temple’s announcement (which has come and gone), or one year from his statement. If it is the former, we could see a groundbreaking on or around December 2. That, of course, is just a hope on my part. Once more is known, an adjustment will be made.

174. Brasilia Brazil Temple: Planning phase; site confirmed.

NOTE: Knowing that this site has been confirmed by local priesthood leaders (it is located in the northern section of the city, near an arm of Paranoa Lake), we also know that a site confirmation is the hardest part of getting a temple built. Unless the site changes, it is becoming increasingly more likely that a groundbreaking will be held sometime during early-to-mid 2018. If the groundbreaking happens during that time, it will mark the first time in almost 20 years that the Church has had three temples simultaneously under construction in Brazil. I am keeping an eye on developments with this temple and will adjust this estimate as needed.

175. Greater Manila Philippines Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official name announcement.

NOTE: Unless problems arise, the site identified by the Church’s Philippines Facebook page (on the southern side of the Manila metropolitan area in Alabang, Muntinlupa City) will more than likely be the official site. As finding a site is the most complex part of getting a temple built, it is very possible that we might see a groundbreaking for this temple by early-to-mid 2018. If the groundbreaking takes place during this time, then we would have two temples simultaneously under construction in the Philippines for the very first time in Church history. It is also anticipated that the Church will announce an official name for this temple in the very near future, as the name for the second Lima Peru Temple was announced within a month after the temple announcement. As with everything else, I am keeping an eye out for developments and will provide updated information when more is known.

176. Pocatello Idaho: Planning phase; awaiting site confirmation.

NOTE: A probable site has been identified but not yet confirmed. The LDS Church Temples site noted on May 12, 2017 a statement by Elder Larry Y. Wilson, the Temple Department Executive Director, that this temple is anticipated to be a larger edifice in the mold of the temple that will be dedicated later this year in Meridian. Once more is known officially regarding the site, it will be easier to make an adjustment as to how soon the groundbreaking might take place and how long construction might subsequently take. If it is true that this temple will be similar to Meridian, we might not see a groundbreaking any sooner than mid-to-late 2018. That said, I also recognize fully that temples in the US have typically always commenced construction faster than their counterparts outside the US, so it would not surprise me if this groundbreaking happened sooner than that. As always, I am keeping an eye on developments, and I will adjust this estimate as I am able to do so once more is known.

177. Saratoga Springs Utah: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: While it is true that temples in the United States (and particularly those in Utah County) get started much more quickly than temples elsewhere, it is also true that an official site confirmation is still pending. We do know, as previously noted, that the Church owns several plots of land in this city, so if one of them is chosen as the site, the groundbreaking could happen shortly thereafter. Until more is known, it seems wise to adjust my previous estimate for a groundbreaking to sometime during mid-to-late 2018.

178. Bangkok Thailand Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: As previously noted in other versions of this construction progress report, member speculation is that an existing building might be renovated and repurposed as Thailand’s first temple and also house Church offices and a meetinghouse as well. If that speculation is confirmed anytime soon, we might see a groundbreaking shortly after. In the meantime, it might be best to revise my previous estimate and say that a groundbreaking could take place in mid-to-late 2018. More to come once more is known.

179. Abidjan Ivory Coast Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: The Church has seen substantial growth on the African continent in recent years. This is verified by the fact that, with the announcement of the 12 temples over the last three years during April General Conference, 3 (25%) of those have been in Africa. I would therefore hope that this temple, announced in 2015, would not have to wait too long for a groundbreaking, but I could see it happening sometime during early 2019, if not before.

180. Quito Ecuador Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: While the first temple in Ecuador had a 14-year delay between its announcement and the subsequent groundbreaking (the second-longest such period in Church history), this temple is not nearly as likely to see such delays. The Church in South America has grown at an astonishing rate, and that is evidenced by the fact that 4 of the 12 temples announced most recently (25%) have been for South America. With the temples above most likely to have a groundbreaking first, it is very possible that we could see a groundbreaking for this time sometime during mid-2019, if not before.

181. Belem Brazil Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: South America, as noted above, has been very receptive to the gospel. As a result, more temples are coming to that continent. And while this temple has not yet had a site identified or confirmed, Brazilian temples typically have been built very swiftly. While I am hoping to see it sooner, and while I will be happy to adjust my estimate going forward if that is necessary, it seems wise for the moment to revise my estimate and say that we could see a groundbreaking during mid-2019, which would ensure that we will have two or three temples under construction in Brazil at least for the next couple of years. I will revise my estimate if and when I am able to do so.

182. Nairobi Kenya Temple: Planning phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: It is becoming increasingly more likely that this African temple might be the last of the current bunch to have a groundbreaking. That said, with the Church growth that is occurring on the African continent, and with temples having gone up fairly quickly once a site is identified, I will revise my previous estimate and say that we will likely see a groundbreaking for this temple sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

ADDITIONAL GENERAL NOTE: Temple announcements are possible at any time, but the last twelve announcements have taken place during the April General Conference. I never want to rule out the possibility of announcements at other times, but that has been the pattern for the last three years. There have also been reports of several cities that have had a site purchased for a while now, and where an announcement might happen at any time. I know of at least five that have been identified to me by name: Managua Nicaragua, Auckland New Zealand, Port Moresby Papua New Guinea, Bentonville Arkansas, and Missoula Montana. If other potential temples have had a site purchased, they have yet to be identified as such. The following temples have been publicly proposed by apostles at various and sundry times:  New Delhi India (in June 1992 by Elder Neal A. Maxwell; may not happen soon due to intense political and religious obstacles); Vilnius Lithuania (in May 1993 by Elder M. Russell Ballard, which may be more of a long-shot possibility); Maracaibo Venezuela (in August 1999 by President Hinckley, which is just waiting for the right conditions); Singapore (in January 2000 by President Hinckley, and is likely to be announced when the time is right); for the Southwest Salt Lake Valley (in October 2005 by President Hinckley; NOTE: While some contend that this temple announcement has already happened, verifiable sources widely available prove otherwise. A site is being held in reserve for that temple, and that location will be announced when membership and temple activity warrant that announcement); Managua Nicaragua (in January 2012 by then-Elder Russell M. Nelson; very likely at any time due to Nicaragua being the #1 of the top ten world countries without a temple); Missoula Montana (sometime in 2014 by Elder David A. Bednar during a stake conference in the area; while the report of this proposal has yet to be verified, the fact that there has been a purchase of a temple site seems to indicate that it is a most imminent possibility, though perhaps not as imminent as I once believed); and for the Kasai Region in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (in February 2016 by Elder Neil L. Andersen). There are likely several other sites that the Church has purchased for a potential temple, but those have yet to be verified.

                                                                                                           

Key:

Bolded numbers and text denote temples whose numbers already exists (for renovations), or is certain due to a scheduled dedication, as well as information that is certain, such as dedication or groundbreaking dates.

Italicized numbers and text denote temples whose numbers may change based on the order in which future dedications and groundbreakings are scheduled.

Underlined numbers and text denote temples whose numbers may change based on progress towards planning, approval, and groundbreaking.

Red text highlights changes from the last posted temple progress report.