Cebu Philippines Temple |
Under Construction; anticipated to be completed in 2010 (an official announcement is still pending) |
Site: 11.6 acres.
Total Floor Area: 29,556 square feet.
Groundbreaking and Site Dedication: 14 November 2007 by Dallin H. Oaks
As of February 2008, forms are in place for pouring the foundation for the Cebu Philippines Temple.
On Wednesday, November 14, 2007, Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the temple complex in Lahug, Cebu City. The 29,556-square-foot temple will support a single central spire and share its 11-acre site with a building for patron housing, a meetinghouse, residences for both the temple and mission presidents, and a mission office.1
In a letter to Filipino priesthood leaders dated April 18, 2006, the First Presidency announced construction of a second temple for the Philippines in Cebu City. The new temple will cut travel time and expenses for many of the saints living in the southern and central islands. The letter extended an invitation to members who would like to contribute financially to do so as their circumstances allow.2
Church membership in the Philippines has grown dramatically over the past 25 years. The nation is home to over a half million Church members organized into more than 80 stakes.3
1. Cherry Baluyot, "Cebu temple — Groundbreaking in Philippines," Church News 17 Nov. 2007: 5.
2. "Temple announced: Cebu, Philippines, will be site for sacred edifice," Church News 29 Apr. 2006: 2.
3. Gerry Avant, ed. "Worldwide Church: Philippines," 2004 Church Almanac (Salt Lake City, Utah: Deseret Morning News, 2004) 370.
