Happy New Year 2019!

Hello again, everyone, and Happy New Year 2019! I wanted to post right now to provide an overview of known projects which will be published on this blog throughout this year. In addition to ongoing updates on the ministry of our apostles, major Church news and temple developments, General Conference, scheduled Church events (including temple dedications, rededications or groundbreakings), and any other breaking news, I intend to do specific posts on or around the following days for the following reasons:

First half of 2018:
January 14: One-year anniversary of President Nelson's prophetic administration.
January 24: Elder Christofferson's 74th birthday.
January 27: First 2019 apostolic milestone update.
February 6: Elder Rasband's 68th birthday.
February 20: President Ballard's first 2019 nonagenarian milestone.
March 10: Second 2019 apostolic milestone update.
April 9: President Oaks' first 2019 Quorum President milestone.
April 21: Third apostolic milestone update.
May 15: President Ballard's second 2019 nonagenarian milestone.
May 31: President Eyring's 86th birthday.
June 2: Third 2019 apostolic milestone update.
June 15: Elder Bednar's 67th birthday.

Second half of 2019:
Preliminary note: Since the July milestones will, as detailed below, are so close together, I may do a single post marking all of them after they pass rather than on the day each is observed.
July 3: President Nelson's first (and only) 2019 Church President tenure milestone.
July 5: President Nelson's first ever (and only) Church President age milestone/first (and only) 2019 nonagenarian milestone.
July 7: President Oaks' second 2019 Quorum President milestone.
July 9: President Oaks' third 2019 Quorum President milestone.
July 14: Fourth 2019 apostolic milestone update.
July 31: President Ballard's fourth (and final) 2019 nonagenarian milestone.
August 6: Elder Stevenson's 64th birthday.
August 9: Elder Andersen's 68th birthday.
August 12: President Oaks' 87th birthday.
August 25: Fifth 2019 apostolic milestone update.
September 8: Elder Cook's 79th birthday.
September 9: President Nelson's 95th birthday. (Since this is a milestone birthday, there may be an official Church event in honor of this milestone).
October 2: Elder Soares' 61st birthday.
October 6: Sixth 2019 apostolic milestone update.
October 8: President Ballard's 91st birthday.
November 6: Elder Uchtdorf's 79th birthday.
November 13: Elder Renlund's 67th birthday.
November 15: President Oaks' fourth 2019 Quorum President milestone.
November 17: Seventh 2019 apostolic milestone update.
December 3: Elder Holland's 79th birthday.
December 14: President Oaks' fifth (and final) 2019 Quorum President milestone.
December 23: Elder Gong's 66th birthday.
December 29: Eighth (and final) 2019 apostolic milestone update.

As you can see, 2019 will be jam-packed just with these posts. If scheduled Church events (including temple groundbreakings, dedications and rededications) are taken into account, and we also add in General Conference coverage, breaking news, and any major Church news or temple developments, then 2019 will be quite a year for this blog and for me personally.

At the outset, if you will allow me to do so, I want to interject a personal note here. I could not provide ongoing coverage of everything I post about on this blog if it were not for my knowledge that such posts will be read and commented on in the way they have up to this point. In point of fact, without each of you, my readers, I would be doing nothing more than posting for my own benefit. Because I know there are readers who have come to trust my reports of such developments as they occur, I am continually motivated to do so. Thank you all for that.

I appreciate that the audience which this blog reaches is expanding. Within the last 24 hours, I have had readers from the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, Germany, an unknown region, Venezuela, Guatemala, Sierra Leone, and Turkmenistan. When my all-time views are considered, my audience also includes readers from Canada, Portugal, the Ukraine, and Spain. I know also that a number of those who read my blog come from Mexico and other countries in South America, Europe, and Africa, among other continents, which is very humbling to me. I hope the message of the content on this blog, though written in English, serves as an inspiration to all who read what I "sound off" about.

Likewise, thanks to all who contribute thoughtful feedback relating to the comments posted on this blog. I made a decision as the number of comments picked up here that I would do my best to provide a personal response to thank each individual for commenting, and to provide any additional insight or clarification as needed. By way of reminder to my newer readers, any comment I add is generally not meant to end the discussion. If I see any discussion headed in a direction with which I am not comfortable, I will mention that and steer it either back on track or to a good conclusion, but other than that, ongoing comments are always welcome and appreciated.

With renewed commitment to cover whatever lies ahead for the Church, and a promise that I will continue to do my best to bring word of those developments to you all as they occur, that does it for this post. Any and all comments continue to be, as always, welcome and appreciated, on any post at any time, as long as such comments are made in accordance with the established guidelines.

Thank you for the privilege of your time. If you enjoyed what you read here and would like to stay informed of newly-added content, please feel free to subscribe. Until my next post, I wish each one of you all the best for a happy, safe, healthy, and prosperous 2019, and pray that the Lord will bless you all in everything you do.

Review of Temple Progress During 2018

Hello again, everyone! There are just over 2 hours left in 2018 here in Utah, and as this year winds inexorably to its' close, I am pleased to bring you a look at the many game-changing temple developments which have occurred this year. The easiest way I know how to do that is to republish copies of the first and last temple construction progress reports which I published on this blog this year. Without further ado, let's get right into those. As always, the end-of-year version of that report will be completely highlighted in red text, because as far as I know, there is no temple development from that first report that remains true for the last one.

The reports follow below. So as not to disturb the flow of that information, I will end here and now as I always do. That does it for this post. Any and all comments are, as always, welcome and appreciated, on any post at any time, as long as such feedback is made in accordance with the established guidelines. Thank you for the privilege of your time. If you enjoyed what you read here and would like to stay informed of newly-added content, please feel free to subscribe. Until my next post, I wish each one of you all the best and pray that the Lord will bless you all in everything you do.

Temple Construction Progress Report (current as of 1/1/18)

NOTE ABOUT FUTURE TEMPLE CONSTRUCTION: I have previously referenced the statement made by Elder Larry Y. Wilson, who serves as the Temple Department Executive Director, to the effect that 80 temple locations are under active consideration for an announcement during the next 15 years. That statement, made in late April 2017, means that we could have around 260 temples in various stages by late April 2032. Whether or not all of those temples are announced by that time, it appears more than likely that the Church could have 200 of those temples in operation 2 years prior to that, as the Church marks its 200^th anniversary (on Saturday April 6, 2030). The Church would just need to complete the 23 in various stages and announce and complete 18 others in the 12.26 years between now and then, which works out to roughly 3.34 new temples that will need to be dedicated every year. Given the fact that the Church will be maintaining at least that average for the next 2 or 3 years, it seems very likely that there will be 200 operating temples by that 200^th anniversary, if not more.

CURRENT TEMPLE STATUS: The Church has 182 temples in various phases. There are 159 in operation, with an additional 10 that are in various phases of construction. There is 1 other which had a groundbreaking at the beginning of December 2016 and for which construction is anticipated to begin at some point during the first half of 2018. In terms of temples undergoing renovations, 1 has a rededication scheduled during the middle of next year; 1, which sustained weather-related damage, was first closed for restoration, which has now become a full renovation process, with its’ completion and an private dedication anticipated early next year; 1 other temple is anticipated to have its rededication next year (likely during its’ final quarter); and 4 additional temples recently closed for renovation as well. There are also 5 others that are set to close within the first half of next year, all of which have had their closure dates confirmed. The remaining 12 are announced (with either a site announcement or groundbreaking pending).

Under Construction; completion estimated during 2018:

160. Concepcion Chile Temple: Finalizing stone cladding; installing millwork and hanging light fixtures; pouring curbing and parking; completion estimated sometime during tithe latter half of 2018.,

NOTE: On December 30, 2017, I once again changed my thoughts about when this temple’s dedication could be held. I now believe that may occur on either Sunday September 16 or 23. As the next four or five months pass, we will know how reasonable that estimate might be, and I will make any subsequent adjustments that may be needed.

161.  Barranquilla Colombia Temple: Erecting decorative fence; installing lamp posts; adding plants and laying sod; completion estimated sometime during late 2018.

NOTE: On December 1, 2017, this temple was moved ahead of the Kinshasa DR Congo Temple. Then its’ construction status was updated on December 27 of that same year. In view of these developments, I am even more convinced that the dedication of this temple could (and likely will) occur on either Sunday November 11 or 18. If the process of finishing this temple’s construction is delayed for any reason whatsoever, that could push it back to mid-December, but for now, I feel confident in that estimate, and not just because of what the study about the DR Congo’s climate showed.

Temples that may be completed sometime during either late 2018 or early 2019:

162. Rome Italy Temple: Scaffolding removed from towers; interior work progressing; completion estimated sometime during late 2018-early 2019.

NOTE: In view of my desire to speak and think optimistically on temple time-frames, I have recently shared my opinion that, with the completion estimate delayed for Kinshasa until early 2019, we could see this temple dedicated on either Sunday December 9 or 16. But there is also a more than likely possibility that while construction on this temple could be completed by the end of 2018, the dedication might not follow until the early months of 2019. I am keeping my eyes open for any information in this regard, and I will pass any updates along ASAP.

Under construction, completion estimated during 2019:

163. Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple: Hardscaping underway; plastering exterior walls; moisture barrier added to eaves; completion estimated sometime during early 2019.

NOTE: Based on the fact that this temple is not anticipated to be dedicated until early 2019, I have felt that an altered estimate of mid-February would be appropriate for that event. As 2018 progresses, we will know more about how reasonable that might be, and any further adjustments can be made as they might be needed.

164. Durban South Africa Temple: Installing and waterproofing roof decking; backfilling foundation; setting roof trusses on housing facility; completion estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2019.

NOTE: According to new information I found about the year-round climate, and because of the many temples estimated to be rededicated during this same time period following their renovation, I have changed my estimate for this temple’s dedication to either late May or early June. I will post any further revisions to this estimate as I make them.

165. Port-au-Prince Haiti Temple: Site grading and excavating for foundation; completion estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2019.

NOTE: With full-scale construction now underway, and knowing that a 12-18 month time-frame has been suggested for the completion of this temple, I have felt that the dedication could follow in mid-June 2019. If this temple consistently progresses in its’ construction, that would obviously necessitate an adjustment to that estimate, but for now, it seems to be a safe initial projection.

166. Lisbon Portugal Temple: Steeple base walls poured; meetinghouse cladding progressing; completion estimated sometime during mid-2019.

NOTE: With this temple having been moved up twice on this list in the last couple of weeks, after reevaluating the potential time-frame for its’ dedication, I now offer early-to-mid August as a revised estimate for that event. As 2018 progresses, we will know how reasonable that might be, and I will make any adjustments that might be needed.

167. Fortaleza Brazil Temple: Cupola framework installed atop temple; planting palm trees around temple parking; completion estimated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: Given the need to reevaluate the potential time-frame within which this temple could be dedicated, I have felt that could occur in early-to-mid September. Within the next year, more will be known about how accurate that might be, and any adjustments can be made as they are needed.

Temples estimated to be completed sometime during late 2019-early 2020:

168. Arequipa Peru Temple: Interior work started; steeple framework being assembled; completion estimated sometime during late 2019-early 2020.

NOTE: Given the fact that this temple has been progressing fairly steadily, I feel confident that its dedication could occur prior to the end of 2019, and if that does happen, I have felt it could occur in mid-November. As the next 18 months pass, more will be known about how reasonable that might be, and any adjustments can be made as they are needed.

Temples estimated to be completed sometime during 2020:

169. Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple: Pouring upper walls of temple; completion estimated sometime during early 2020.

NOTE: When this temple’s completion estimate was changed yet again on December 28, 2017, that made it necessary for me to rethink what I have previously shared in terms of a more specific time-frame. Based on that adjusted estimate and what I have found in studying the Rio de Janeiro climate, I now believe we will see the dedication in mid-March 2020. As the next 18-20 months pass, we will know more about how reasonable that estimate might be, and any further adjustments can be made as they are needed.

Construction pending:

170. Winnipeg Manitoba Temple: Groundbreaking held Saturday December 3, 2016; plans being slightly modified; full-scale operations estimated to begin sometime during the first half of 2018; completion estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2020.

NOTE: This temple has not progressed since its’ groundbreaking over a year ago. It is currently estimated that full-scale efforts could begin once winter 2018 clears, perhaps in April or May. And while it is unknown if the modification of the plans for this temple will change the 20-month estimate the Church provided for this temple, if all goes well, I could see the dedication of this temple taking place during mid-May 2020. I will be keeping an eye out for developments related to this temple and will post any adjustments I make to this estimate as that becomes necessary.

Scheduled for rededication:

20. Jordan River Utah Temple: Closed for renovation; open house tickets available beginning Monday February 12 @ 10:00 AM MST; rededication scheduled for Sunday May 20, 2018.

Undergoing renovation (in view of damage incurred by a natural disaster; estimated to be reopened in a few months):

97. Houston Texas Temple: Closed for renovation (following damage incurred by flooding); estimated to reopen in early 2018, following a private rededication ceremony.

NOTE: Based on the fact that this temple’s renovation is primarily for the completion of restoration efforts following flooding, and because the First Presidency has indicated the process will only take a few months to complete, it is my feeling that the private rededication could take place on either Sunday April 15 or 22. I will be posting any updates to this estimate as they are needed.

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

41. Frankfurt Germany Temple: Closed for renovation; basement addition concrete waterproofed; rededication estimated sometime during late 2018.

NOTE: In view of the completion estimate for this temple being pushed back yet again on December 30, 2017, it appears that the earliest we could see this dedication is the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2018. With that in mind, I am revising my estimate for that event, which I now believe could be held on either October 14 or 21. I will keep an eye on these developments and will pass along any additional adjustments to this estimate as they are needed in the future.

Undergoing Renovation (rededication estimated sometime during 2019):

80. Memphis Tennessee Temple: Closed for renovation; structural framing installed for steeple; rededication estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2019.

NOTE: With the other adjustments I have made, it seems wise to adjust this temple’s completion estimate to sometime during mid-to-late April. But that will depend on how things progress. If I see anything that gives me a reason to adjust my thinking on this, I will pass that along.

95. Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple: Closed for renovation; marble cladding removed; rededication estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2019.

NOTE: With the confirmed alteration of this temple’s exterior look (which will match that of the Memphis Temple), it seems entirely possible that a rededication could take place sometime during late April-early May. As this renovation progresses, I will pass along any alterations to this estimate.

112. Asuncion Paraguay Temple: Closed for renovation; rededication estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2019.

NOTE: With the confirmation that this temple has closed and that its exterior look will likely be altered in a similar way as in Memphis and Oklahoma City, I am reasonably certain that the rededication could take place in mid-May. Ass with anything else, I will be sure to pass along any adjustments I make to that estimate.

Undergoing Renovation (rededication estimated sometime during 2020):

18. Tokyo Japan Temple: Closed for renovation; rededication estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2020.

NOTE: As has been noted previously regarding this temple, it is undergoing renovation primarily to upgrade and update electrical and mechanical systems. Since it is also a comparatively smaller one from the Kimball-era of small temples, it is easy to assume and to assert that a dedication could happen in mid-to-late April 2020. As with everything else, I will be sure to pass along any updates to this estimate as I make them.

Temples Scheduled for Renovation (scheduled to close during 2018; closure dates confirmed):

68. Raleigh North Carolina Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on Sunday January 7, 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: Through a comment on my blog on December 5, 2017, the exact closure date for this temple was confirmed. Additionally, while I also know Church members in North Carolina who said that this temple’s renovation will not involve an expansion, it is possible that part of the renovation process will be changing its exterior to look like the temples in Memphis and Oklahoma City. If that is the case, then the rededication may be held sometime during early-to-mid September 2019. I will pass along any new information as I find out about it.

94. Baton Rouge Louisiana Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on Sunday January 28, 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: On December 4, 2017, I was able to confirm the date above as the official date for this closure. While much is unknown about what this process will involve, if this temple’s exterior look is changed to what has already been confirmed for the Memphis and Oklahoma City Temples, a subsequent rededication could occur during mid-to-late September 2019. As the renovation process gets started, we will know more about how reasonable that estimate might be, and any subsequent adjustments that are needed will be made.

13. Oakland California Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on Monday February 19, 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

NOTE: With this renovation process for this temple set to begin in less than two months, we know that the primary purpose of it is to upgrade electrical and mechanical systems and bring them up to code. Until the renovation process is well underway, we may not know for a while when to anticipate its completion. With the Church’s statement that this temple will be dedicated before the end of 2019, I feel safe in estimating that the rededication could take place in mid-November. If that process is delayed at all, I could also see the rededication pushed back into early 2020. I will keep an eye out for information in this regard and will pass along anything I find out.

16. Washington D. C. Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on Sunday March 4, 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2020.

NOTE: With what is currently known about this temple’s renovation (having confirmed the exact date, and also knowing that it is mainly to upgrade and update the mechanical and electrical system), in taking the larger size of this temple into account (which will extend the process), a 32-month estimate seems appropriate. That would put this temple’s rededication sometime during mid-November 2020. As the next year unfolds, more will be known, and any adjustments will be provided.

7. Mesa Arizona Temple: Scheduled to close for renovation on Sunday May 20, 2018; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2020.

NOTE: On December 5, I was able to confirm the official date for this temple’s renovation closure. Because this temple has been previously renovated, I am sticking with my initial estimate of 26 months for that process, which would put its rededication at some point in early-to-mid September 2020. Within the next year, this process will be well underway, and more will be known about any adjustments that may need to be made. Until then, it seems to be a sound adjustment to what I have previously stated.

NOTE ON ANNOUNCED TEMPLES: While I once felt confident in projecting potential groundbreaking estimates for these announced temples, on October 28, 2017, I determined that it would be best to simplify this section by listing these temples in their announced order, with the exception of those that are farther along. Then on November 10, 2017, I took another look at new information on these temples and reordered them further. I will keep an eye out for any developments and reorder this list again as often as that becomes necessary going forward. Additionally, where I have felt it would be appropriate, I have provided notes about some of the factors that may affect how soon future groundbreakings will occur. Since we already know that 2018-2020 are going to be busy years for temple-related developments, it would not surprise me at all if, in view of Elder Wilson’s statement referenced above, we have at least ten more announced during that same time, nor would it surprise me if many of the temples in this section progress to a groundbreaking (and perhaps even a dedication) during that time as well. I am keeping an eye on all of this and will let you know once I find out more information.

Announced temples:

171. Lima Peru Los Olivos Temple: Planning and preliminary construction phase; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: As previously noted, the contractor for this temple said that a year of preliminary work would be needed prior to this temple’s groundbreaking. If, as previously indicated, that year began in March 2017, this temple could easily have its groundbreaking in the early-to-middle part of next year.

172. Brasilia Brazil Temple: Planning and approval; site inspected by Church engineers on June 21, 2017.

NOTE: This temple is this far up on the list because it has had a site identified and inspected. How soon a groundbreaking might happen is unclear. But since a site has been identified and inspected, it may be sooner rather than later.

173. Greater Manila Philippines Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official name announcement.

NOTE: As with the Brasilia temple, this temple is in this position on this list because a site has been identified. An official name is estimated to be announced for this temple at some point in the near future. How soon a groundbreaking might happen is anyone’s guess. But with a site identified already, it may be sooner rather than later/

174. Pocatello Idaho Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: In mid-November, I learned more about the process this temple is undergoing. While the planning and zoning commission voted in favor of the proposed land and subdivision development, the city council will also need to vote on that decision. And until the Church announces something officially, the actual site location is anyone’s guess, with three or four potential sites that could easily accommodate the temple. I am keeping my eye on all of this and will post an update as I become aware of more information.

175. Bangkok Thailand Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: If, as some members have speculated, an existing Church office building is reconstructed into a multi-purpose building that will serve as not only an office building, but a chapel and the temple as well, and if that is confirmed, we could easily see a groundbreaking for this temple sooner rather than later.

176. Urdaneta Philippines Temple: Awaiting government approval and official site announcement.

NOTE: This temple, announced in October 2010, has been subjected to numerous delays. While I hope to see a groundbreaking for it sooner rather than later, there could be more delays in store for this temple. That said, the reports I have received indicate that a site announcement and groundbreaking could occur in short order next year. If that does happen, we could see a groundbreaking sooner rather than later.

177. Abidjan Ivory Coast Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement.

178. Quito Ecuador Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: While the first Ecuadoran Temple had a 14-year waiting period between its announcement and its subsequent groundbreaking, this temple is not estimated to take anywhere near that long between its 2016 announcement and whenever its groundbreaking occurs. As with everything else, I am keeping my eye out for devel

179. Harare Zimbabwe Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: Shortly after this temple was announced (in April 2016), Elder Kevin S. Hamilton, who presides over the Church in the Africa Southeast Area, stated that a site announcement and groundbreaking would occur in short order during 2017. Since that time, no progress has been made in that regard. Hopefully that will change soon.

180. Belem Brazil Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement.

181. Nairobi Kenya Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement; media event held June 14, 2017.

NOTE: While the media event is a good initial step for providing information on this temple, in his remarks at this event, Elder Sitati (our native Kenyan GA Seventy, who also has a role as an Assistant Executive Director of the Temple Department (both of which make it understandable that the Church would ask him to represent them for the event), Elder Sitati indicated that it usually takes the Church 2-3 years after an announcement to locate a suitable site (whether owned by the Church or not) plan and conduct a groundbreaking, and start the construction progress. With that in mind, it may be 2019 or 2020 before the groundbreaking occurs for this temple. I hope we will not have to wait that long to have all of that happen for this temple, but time will tell.

182. Saratoga Springs Utah Temple: Planning and approval; awaiting official site announcement.

NOTE: Though Utah temples (particularly those in Utah County) have been known to have a site announcement, groundbreaking, and construction process much more quickly than temples elsewhere, until a site is announced, it has felt wise to have this temple at this spot on this list. As soon as anything changes in that regard, I will pass such news along.

ADDITIONAL GENERAL NOTE: As I have repeatedly emphasized, Elder Wilson stated in late April 2017 that the Church had a list of 80 potential temple sites that are under active consideration for a subsequent announcement during the 15 years following that statement.

Unless the First Presidency elects to do so between now and then, General Conference in April 2018 would be the next opportunity for such announcements. And though not all of the 80 currently on the list will go on to be announced within that time, and while others may be added to that list in the coming years, with 14 years remaining, if anywhere close to 80 temples are announced, that works out to around 6 new temples per year. I am keeping an eye on all of this, and will be sure to post any additional news once I hear of it.

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.

Temple Construction Progress Report (current as of 12/31/18)

Note about future temple construction: I have previously referenced the statement made by Elder Larry Y. Wilson, who serves as the Temple Department Executive Director, to the effect that 80 temples were on a list of locations that would be considered for an official announcement within the 15 years following that statement. And although we may not know whether or not those 80 locations have been announced by late April 2032, it seems reasonable to believe that the Church could (and likely will) have at least 200 operating temples by or before Saturday April 6, 2030 (which will mark the Church’s bicentennial anniversary).

With the 12 temples announced during the October 2018 General Conference, the Church now has a total of 201 temples in any phase. With that and plans to accelerate the temple construction process in mind, it is more likely than not that there will be 200 operating temples by or before Saturday April 6, 2030 (which will mark the Church’s bicentennial anniversary), whether or not an official goal is made to do so. The Church would just need to complete 39 of the temples in various phases in the 11.26 years between now and then, which could be done if 3.46 temples are dedicated each year. Since 6 new temples will be dedicated within the next year, I can easily see the Church having 200 temples in operation by that date, and would anticipate there being more than that. Time will tell, but it seems to be a safe bet.

Current temple status: The Church has 201 temples in various phases. There are 161 in operation; while 3 others have a dedication scheduled; 7 more are currently in various phases of construction; and 2 additional temples for which a groundbreaking has been scheduled. Also, 11 temples are currently closed for renovation (1 of which has a rededication announced, with 5 or 6 others that are also anticipated to be rededicated next year). The remaining 28 are announced, several of which are likely to have a groundbreaking in 2019 and the years following that.

During the October General Conference, President Nelson also announced that many more operating temples will be renovated in the near future, including several pioneer-era temples (most significantly the Salt Lake Temple), and that more information will be released in the coming months about which temples are closing, and what the renovations will involve and entail.

Dedication Scheduled:                                                                                                                     

162. Rome Italy Temple: Construction completed; furnishing and preparing temple for open house; accepting reservations for open house; dedication scheduled for Sunday March 10-Tuesday March 12, 2019.

163. Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple: Construction completed; furnishing and preparing temple for open house; dedication scheduled for Sunday April 14, 2019.

164. Port-au-Prince Haiti Temple: Stone cladding the front exterior walls and tower; dedication scheduled for Sunday May 19, 2019.

Construction completed; dedication announcement pending:

165. Fortaleza Brazil Temple: Construction completed; furnishing and preparing temple for open house; completion estimated sometime during mid-2019.

Under construction, completion anticipated during 2019:

166. Durban South Africa Temple: Drywalling, painting, tiling, plumbing, and installing HVAC, electrical, and fire suppression equipment; adding more trees and plants; completion estimated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

167. Lisbon Portugal Temple: Angel Moroni installed; stone cladding nearing completion; installation of stained glass windows underway; meetinghouse gardens being planted; completion estimated sometime during late 2019.

Temples anticipated to be completed sometime during 2020:

168. Arequipa Peru Temple: Monument sign installed; guardhouse constructed; plaza landscaping well underway; completion estimated sometime during early 2020.

169. Rio de Janeiro Brazil Temple: Scaffolding placed around tower; stone cladding of exterior walls continues; installation of stained glass windows underway; completion estimated sometime during early 2020.

170. Winnipeg Manitoba Temple: Building the temple foundation; wood framing and sheathing going up for meetinghouse; completion estimated sometime during mid-2020.

Temples anticipated to be completed sometime during 2020 or 2021:

171. Abidjan Côte d'Ivoire Temple: Setting poles for construction barrier; completion estimated sometime during late 2020-early 2021.

Groundbreaking scheduled:

172. Urdaneta Philippines Temple: Official rendering released; preparing for groundbreaking, which is scheduled for Wednesday January 16, 2019; completion estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2021.

173. Bangkok Thailand Temple: Demolishing the old Church office building; preparing for groundbreaking, which is scheduled for Saturday January 26, 2019; completion estimated sometime during mid-2022.

Undergoing Renovation (rededication scheduled)

13. Oakland California Temple: Closed for renovation; new water feature operating; Christmas lights on display as work progresses on interior; rededication scheduled for Sunday June 16, 2019.

Undergoing Renovation (rededication estimated sometime during 2019):

95. Oklahoma City Oklahoma Temple: Closed for renovation; pouring driveways and walkways; stone cladding nearing completion; rededication estimated sometime during mid-2019.

80. Memphis Tennessee Temple: Closed for renovation; stone cladding completed; installing stained-glass windows; rededication estimated sometime during mid-2019.

68. Raleigh North Carolina Temple: Closed for renovation; stone cladding exterior walls; temporary glass installed; rededication estimated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

94. Baton Rouge Louisiana Temple: Closed for renovation; exterior walls waterproofed; installing hanging brackets for exterior stone; stone cladding progressing on rear; installing lamp-posts; rededication estimated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

41. Frankfurt Germany Temple: Closed for renovation; installing landscaping irrigation; planting trees and shrubs; completion estimated sometime during mid-to-late 2019.

Undergoing Renovation (rededication estimated sometime during 2019-2020):

112. Asuncion Paraguay Temple: Closed for renovation; interior and exterior work underway; rededication estimated sometime during late 2019-early 2020.

                                                                                                                                  

Undergoing Renovation (rededication estimated sometime during 2020):

18. Tokyo Japan Temple: Closed for renovation; exterior and interior renovations underway; rededication estimated sometime during early-to-mid 2020.

16. Washington D. C. Temple: Closed for renovation; interior completely dismantled; Christmas lights on display as renovation work continues; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2020.

8. Mesa Arizona Temple: Closed for renovation; installing water retention and irrigation systems; excavating for underground parking at Family Discovery Center; rededication may take place sometime during mid-to-late 2020.

Undergoing Renovation (rededication estimated sometime during 2021):

11. Hamilton New Zealand Temple: Closed for renovation; dismantling interior; rededication may take place sometime during early-to-mid 2021.

Note on announced temples: On October 30, 2018, I reviewed the information I had available, and I accordingly reordered the temples in this section splitting them into two sub-categories. The first contains those for which there is sufficient information, based on which I have provided a rough groundbreaking estimate, which will, of course, be subject to alteration in the future as more information is available. The second section contains those temples which are ordered based on the information currently available, but for which more information will be needed before they can join the first list. And for that second list, I do not feel comfortable offering any groundbreaking estimate until more information is available.

Announced Temples (for which sufficient information has me confident enough to venture a general groundbreaking estimate):

174. Pocatello Idaho Temple: Government approval process; streets around temple site opened; groundbreaking anticipated in mid-2019.

175. Saratoga Springs Utah Temple: Government approval phase; probable site identified; awaiting official confirmation and artist’s rendering; groundbreaking could occur in mid-to-late 2019.

176. Harare Zimbabwe Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; President Nelson visited potential site on April 17, 2018; groundbreaking anticipated in late 2019.

177. Lima Peru Los Olivos Temple: Planning and preliminary construction phase; awaiting official site announcement; President Nelson visited probable site on October 20, 2018; groundbreaking could occur in late 2019-early 2020.

178. Nairobi Kenya Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; media event held June 14, 2017; groundbreaking could occur in late 2019-early 2020.

179. Brasilia Brazil Temple: Planning and approval phase; site inspected by Church engineers on June 21, 2017; groundbreaking could occur in early 2020.

180. Greater Manila Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official name announcement; groundbreaking could occur in early-to-mid 2020.

181. Layton Utah Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in early-to-mid 2020.

182. Richmond Virginia Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-2020.

183. Managua Nicaragua Temple: Announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-2020.

184. Salta Argentina Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-2020.

185. Bengaluru India Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; President Nelson toured potential locations on April 19, 2018; groundbreaking could occur in mid-to-late 2020.

186. Auckland New Zealand Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-to-late 2020.

187. Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in ­mid-to-late 2020.

188. Mendoza Argentina Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in late 2020-early 2021.

Announced Temples (for which more information is needed before I provide an estimated groundbreaking time-frame):

189. Quito Ecuador Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

190. Belem Brazil Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

191. Cagayan de Oro Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

192. Salvador Brazil Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

193. Yuba City, California Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

194. Praia Cape Verde Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

195. Yigo Guam Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

196. Puebla Mexico Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

197. Lagos Nigeria Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

198. Davao Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

199. San Juan Puerto Rico Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

200. Russia Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official location and site announcement.

201. Washington County Utah Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official city and site announcement.

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.

Changes since last report are highlighted in red. 

Temple Construction Updates Noted

Hello again, everyone! While I am still planning on providing a look at temple progress which occurred in 2018 later today, I wanted to do a new post first to share some temple updates which have come to my attention within the last half-hour or less. Let's get right into all of that. First of all, I have previously referenced my belief that the Church will have at least 200 operating temples by (if not before) the 200th anniversary of the Church's reestablishment (which will be observed on Saturday April 6, 2030). With 39 temples to dedicate between now and then, as long as the Church dedicates an average 3.46 temples in each of the 11.26 years between today and that day, it will easily be done.

That said, while only 2 temples were dedicated last year, 3 temple dedications have already been scheduled to occur by the end of May 2019, and 3 others are anticipated to be dedicated in the remaining 7 months of next year as well. That brings me to discussing the first of those 3 temples, the one in Fortaleza Brazil, which has been under construction since early 2016. (Although a groundbreaking had been held for that temple in 2011, full-scale construction was stalled for almost 5 years after that). The latest information I have indicates that construction on that temple has concluded, and that the temple is being furnished and prepared for its' open house.

I haven't seen any official announcement of the dates for the open house and dedication of that temple, but it could be that we will see that announcement officially made anytime between Wednesday of this week and Sunday of next week, which would be the first major temple announcement in 2019. As far as I have been able to determine, there are no other further updates on new temples under construction. That said, I do have some updates on temples undergoing renovation, so let's talk next about those.

It has been noted that the work of cladding the Memphis Tennessee Temple in exterior stone has been completed. I would anticipate that announcements about the timing for the open houses and rededication of that temple and the Oklahoma City Temple, which may still be considered ahead of Memphis in terms of its' progress will also be forthcoming within the next 2-3 months or less. The one other update I have on temples undergoing renovation relates to the Baton Rouge Louisiana Temple, where the process of installing lamp-posts on the temple grounds has begun.

Right now, in addition to the 6 temples which will be dedicated next year, and with a rededication also having been announced for the Oakland California Temple, there are up to 6 other temples currently undergoing renovation which could (and likely will) be rededicated next year. In 2020, 3-4 temples are already anticipated to be dedicated, and 3 temples closed for renovation are anticipated to be rededicated, with one other temple that is anticipated to be rededicated the following year.

If, as I am anticipating, several announced temples have a groundbreaking next year, that in turn will result in new temples that could be dedicated in 2020 and the years beyond. And President Nelson continues the process of planning renovations for other temples, which we may learn much more about in the early months of 2019. Since more has been said about President Nelson's temple-building plans lately, we are almost certain to see many more temples announced next year and the years that follow as well.

Whatever might happen in that regard, as I learn of it, I will be sure to pass it along. That does it for this post. Any and all comments are, as always, welcome and appreciated, on any post at any time, as long as such comments are made in accordance with the established guidelines. Thank you for the privilege of your time. If you enjoyed what you read here and would like to stay informed of newly-added content, please feel free to subscribe. Until my next post (which should be coming within the next 4 hours or so and will highlight the major temple developments which occurred this year), I wish each one of you all the best and pray that the Lord will bless you all in everything you do.

Updated Groundbreaking Estimates for Announced Temples

Hello again, everyone! While I hope any of you will feel free to continue to comment on other posts, (particularly my recently-posted April 2019 General Conference predictions), I wanted to post again now with some updated groundbreaking estimates for temples which have currently not gone beyond an announcement. Some preliminary information on those, if I may. First, as previously mentioned, with the groundbreakings for the Urdaneta Philippines and Bangkok Thailand Temples set to occur within the next month, the "oldest" announced temples will then be those 4 announced in April 2016. Second, with new information (or a lack thereof) reported on some of these temples, the latest revision of this list involved resorting them. Third, I have a feeling that between General Conferences, President Nelson will, among other things, be working on the current backlog of 28 announced temples, however that will occur. The order in which temples are listed below, therefore, is based upon information that is now known. If and when more information is relayed about any of these temples, I will be happy to resort them again. Fourth, there is clearly much that is not currently known about the extent of President Nelson's plans. While I would hope that part of those plans overall will be reducing the time between when each temple is announced and when it has a groundbreaking (which, according to some of the Executive Directors or Assistant Executive Directors of the Temple Department, has been roughly 2-3 years), until there is more evidence that that length of time has shortened considerably, most of these estimates will factor in the current estimate of 2-3 years. And finally, there are temples for which I will be needing more definitive and specific information to determine how soon a groundbreaking could occur for them. The announced temples remain in two separate groups: for the first, based on what is known, I have offered a tentative more specific estimated time-frame within which a groundbreaking could occur. And for the second, I will need more information about those temples before I can make even a preliminary, semi-educated and more specific groundbreaking estimate.

With all of that in mind, the updates I have made to the announced temples section of my temple construction progress report follow below. So as not to disturb the flow of that information, I will end here and now as I always do. That does it for this post. Any and all comments are, as always, welcome and appreciated, on any post at any time, as long as such feedback is made in accordance with the established guidelines. Thank you for the privilege of your time. If you enjoyed what you read here and would like to stay informed of newly-added content, please feel free to subscribe. Until my next post, I wish each one of you all the best and pray that the Lord will bless you all in everything you do.

Announced Temples (for which sufficient information has me confident enough to venture a general groundbreaking estimate):

174. Pocatello Idaho Temple: Government approval process; streets around temple site opened; groundbreaking anticipated in mid-2019.

175. Saratoga Springs Utah Temple: Government approval phase; probable site identified; awaiting official confirmation and artist’s rendering; groundbreaking could occur in mid-to-late 2019.

176. Harare Zimbabwe Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; President Nelson visited potential site on April 17, 2018; groundbreaking anticipated in late 2019.

177. Lima Peru Los Olivos Temple: Planning and preliminary construction phase; awaiting official site announcement; President Nelson visited probable site on October 20, 2018; groundbreaking could occur in late 2019-early 2020.

178. Nairobi Kenya Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; media event held June 14, 2017; groundbreaking could occur in late 2019-early 2020.

179. Brasilia Brazil Temple: Planning and approval phase; site inspected by Church engineers on June 21, 2017; groundbreaking could occur in early 2020.

180. Greater Manila Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official name announcement; groundbreaking could occur in early-to-mid 2020.

181. Layton Utah Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in early-to-mid 2020.

182. Richmond Virginia Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-2020.

183. Managua Nicaragua Temple: Announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-2020.

184. Salta Argentina Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-2020.

185. Bengaluru India Temple: Planning and approval phase; announced April 1, 2018; awaiting official site announcement; President Nelson toured potential locations on April 19, 2018; groundbreaking could occur in mid-to-late 2020.

186. Auckland New Zealand Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in mid-to-late 2020.

187. Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in ­mid-to-late 2020.

188. Mendoza Argentina Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement; groundbreaking could occur in late 2020-early 2021.

Announced Temples (for which more information is needed before I provide an estimated groundbreaking time-frame):

189. Quito Ecuador Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

190. Belem Brazil Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

191. Cagayan de Oro Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

192. Salvador Brazil Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

193. Yuba City, California Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

194. Praia Cape Verde Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

195. Yigo Guam Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

196. Puebla Mexico Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

197. Lagos Nigeria Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

198. Davao Philippines Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

199. San Juan Puerto Rico Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official site announcement.

200. Russia Temple: Planning and approval phase; awaiting official city and site announcement.

201. Washington County Utah Temple:  Planning and approval phase; awaiting official city and site announcement.

Elder Gerrit W. Gong Marks His 65th Birthday

Hello again, everyone! I am back two days before Christmas to post a tribute to Elder Gerrit W. Gong, who is celebrating his 65th birthday today. As I mentioned in a previous post, this is the last apostolic birthday to occur in 2018. The next apostolic birthday (which will be the first for 2019) will be marked on January 24, at which time Elder D. Todd Christofferson will be 74. But getting back to Elder Gong, let's get into some biographical information.

Gerrit Walter Gong was born in Redwood City, California, on this day in 1953, to Walter and Jean Char Gong. While he was given his father's name for his middle name, his first name was given in honor of and respect to Gerrit de Jong, whose family his mother had lived with while studying at BYU-Provo. Both his parents trace their ancestry back to China, although his father's family emigrated from China to the US during the late 19th century, and his mother's family are ethnic Chinese who lived in Hawaii.

After graduating from high school in Palo Alto, California, he served as a missionary for the Church in Taiwan. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree at BYU, then continued his education at Oxford University, where, as a Rhodes Scholar, he earned a master's degree and a doctoral degree in philosophy. He first met Susan Lindsay, the woman he would later marry, while giving presentations at the MTC focused on the culture of Taiwan, to groups of missionaries assigned to serve in that nation (Sister Lindsay, at that time, was preparing to serve her mission in Taiwan).

At some point following her return from missionary service, while he was on summer break from Oxford, the two began dating. After Gerrit returned to Oxford, he and Susan (who was a BYU student) continued their courtship. The couple was married in the Salt Lake Temple on January 2, 1980, and raised 4 sons. They spent most of their married lives in Virginia and Maryland. Brother Gong became a special assistant to the US Secretary of State in 1985. He went on to be a professor at Johns Hopkins University and Georgetown University.

He would go on to serve as a special assistant in the US State Department and as a special assistant to the US embassy in China. In 1989, he served as China Chair and Asia Director of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. He was tapped to participate in multiple education summits, in addition to serving on the United States Department of Education's National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity. He went on to serve as Assistant to the President of BYU for Planning and Assessment.

In the Church, Elder Gong served as a bishop, stake president, and area seventy. During his time in the latter assignment, he accompanied the presiding authority to my parent's Stake Conference. As he spoke, I was impressed by his warmth, knowledge of the scriptures, and ability to teach from them. While I may not remember any specifics of what he said, the power of the Spirit which I felt when he was speaking was unmistakable. After that conference, I had the opportunity to greet and chat with him informally. What I had seen at the pulpit while he spoke was even more apparent in his personal interactions with me and other members of my parent's stake. This is a man who feels and teaches by the Spirit.

During the April 2010 General Conference, Elder Gong was among those called as a General Authority Seventy (to serve in the First Quorum). He filled various assignments at Church headquarters for the first year or so after his call. From August 2011-August 2013, he served in the Asia Area Presidency as a counselor. In 2013, he was called as president of that same area.

As a result of Elder Ronald A. Rasband's call to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles during the October 2015 General Conference, Elder Gong was called to the Presidency of the Seventy on October 6, 2015. He transitioned out of his role as Asia Area President and into his new assignment in that Presidency effective January 4, 2016. He had responsibility for overseeing the work of the Church in the North America Northeast Area. He also served on the Church Board of Education and Boards of Trustees, and a member of the Executive Committee of the Boards.

After serving in the Presidency of the Seventy for roughly 2.5 years, and following the deaths of Elder Robert D. Hales and Church President Thomas S. Monson, new Church President Russell M. Nelson called both Elder Gong and Elder Ulisses Soares to serve as members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. They were first sustained in that assignment on March 31, 2018, and both were ordained to the apostleship the following Thursday (April 5, 2018). The two are the first Asian American and Latin American apostles of the Church.

In June 2018, Elders Gong and Soares met with representatives of the media for the first time as new apostles. At that time, Elder Gong reported that he had been asked to chair the Scriptures Committee. He also serves as a member of the Priesthood and Family Executive Council, the Leadership and Training Committee, and the Outreach Committee. He had additionally indicated that he had been asked to oversee the Church's Asia and Asia North Areas, but official Church resources say those areas are supervised by Elder Gary E. Stevenson.

Elder Gong has given only 4 addresses in General Conference thus far, 1 following his call as a General Authority, 1 more while in the Presidency of the Seventy, and 2 others since beginning his service in the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, all of which are worthy of review, and each of which I can endorse without hesitation. Although it is unlikely Elder Gong might ever read this personally, I am grateful to have been able to write this post in honor of his 65th birthday today. Because of my previously-referenced personal interaction with him, I can testify that the Lord has prepared him for his present assignment, and I whole-heartedly sustain him and the other 14 apostles.

That does it for this post. Any and all comments are, as always, welcome and appreciated, on any post at any time, as long as such comments are made in accordance with the established guidelines. Thank you for the privilege of your time. If you enjoyed what you read here and would like to stay informed of newly-added content, please feel free to subscribe. Until my next post, I wish each one of you all the best and pray that the Lord will bless you all in everything you do.