Wednesday, October 14, 2009

In Closer Proximity

From General Conference...October 2009

"We continue to build temples. We desire that as many members as possible have an opportunity to attend the temple without having to travel inordinate distances. Worldwide, 83 percent of our members live within 200 miles (320 km) of a temple. That percentage will continue to increase as we construct new temples around the world. Currently there are 130 temples in operation, with 16 announced or under construction. This morning I am pleased to announce 5 additional temples for which sites are being acquired and which, in coming months and years, will be built in the following locations: Brigham City, Utah; ConcepciĆ³n, Chile; Fortaleza, Brazil; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; and Sapporo, Japan.

Millions of ordinances are performed in the temples each year in behalf of our deceased loved ones. May we continue to be faithful in performing such ordinances for those who are unable to do so for themselves. I love the words of President Joseph F. Smith as he spoke of temple service and of the spirit world beyond mortality. Said he, “Through our efforts in their behalf their chains of bondage will fall from them, and the darkness surrounding them will clear away, that light may shine upon them and they shall hear in the spirit world of the work that has been done for them by their [people] here, and will rejoice with you in your performance of these duties.”'
President Thomas S. Monson

The New Mark Temple Chasers will be embarking on another monthly quest to Winter Quarters this friday at noon. I am reminded of the privilege we have to be within 3 hours of a temple. Even though we will have one within minutes very soon, I still consider it a sacred blessing to be able to travel to and from the temple in the same day. Great and marvelous things are happening. It is a joy to be here at this time. I'm thrilled for those who live in the areas where the more recent temples were announced to be built and I remember how it felt a year ago when a temple was announced for Kansas City. I felt the electricity in my bosom as I know those saints felt too. It was joyous then, as it still is now.

Let the Temple Chase begin for them.

2 comments:

Dennis and Cherise said...

Yes, at least you can drive! I can do the Temple Trip here in one day, but I have to buy airplane tickets, a rental car, oh and be at the airport by 4am!!!
Love Ya
Cant wait for the Temple

Taylor.A.Smith said...

A couple months ago I listed to an interview with the president of the Sapporo, Japan Mission. When I heard that there was going to be a temple there, I was so excited for them, especially since they have to sacrifice so much right now to go to the Temple! Here is the link if anybody wants to listen to the interview: http://radio.lds.org/eng/programs/into-all-the-world-episode-2

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