The Cobán Guatemala and Okinawa Japan Temples were announced in 2019 by President Nelson
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has released exterior renderings showing the planned design of two temples previously announced in 2019 by Church President Russell M. Nelson.
The Cobán Guatemala Temple will be built on a 5.4-acre site adjacent to 4a. Avenida 4-48 Zona 8, Barrio Bella Vista, in Cobán, Guatemala. Plans call for a single-story temple of approximately 8,800 square feet. A meetinghouse and temple patron housing will also be built on the site.
The Okinawa Japan Temple will be located on a half-acre site at 7-11, Matsumoto, Okinawa Shi, in Okinawa-ken, Japan. Plans call for a two-story temple of approximately 10,000 square feet. A temple patron waiting area will also be added on to an adjacent existing meetinghouse.
What are Temples?
Temples are literally houses of the Lord. They are places where individuals can go to make sacred promises with God, feel His spirit, and escape from the hectic demands of day-to-day life.
Why do Latter-Day Saints have temples?
Temples have been around for a long time. Moses had a tabernacle, Solomon built a beautiful temple, and Jesus taught at the temple in Jerusalem. Today, temples are built all over the world. In over 140 temples worldwide, faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints find opportunities for peaceful reflection and for learning more about God’s plan of happiness. Inside temples, couples can be married for eternity, not just “’til death do you part.” Members of the Church can also perform baptisms and other ordinances for their loved ones who died without receiving these blessings.
The blessings of the temple
Because each temple is the House of the Lord, we can feel a special closeness to God when we visit. This feeling can provide hope when we have challenges and direction when we need guidance in our lives. The temple is also where we can receive the greatest blessings God has to offer us, including the opportunity to live with our families forever, even after we die. We can also honor and serve our deceased loved ones by providing these blessings to them as we act on their behalf.Have questions about temples?Let’s talk
Temples are different than meetinghouses
Members of the Church worship in meetinghouses around the world, and visitors are always welcome to participate. These buildings might include a neighborhood chapel or even a rented space in a city building. In any case, these meetinghouses are where members of the Church gather together regularly for Sunday worship services and weekly activities.
