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 Cebu City | 13 June 2010 | President Thomas S. Monson dedicated the 133rd temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the City of Cebu on June 13, 2010. The 2nd temple to be built in the Philippines, three dedicatory sessions were conducted which was attended by more than 300,000 thousand saints all over the country. Other local units witnessed the event via live satellite broadcast in the different stake and district centers.
The cornerstone ceremony was held during the 1st dedicatory session where President Henry B. Eyring, Elders Dallin H. Oaks and William Walker, and the Philippines Area Presidency together with their wives assisted the prophet as he placed cement on the cornerstone containing a time capsule of local cultural memorabilia. A couple of primary children were allowed to participate in this traditional ceremony.
Happiness and excitement were evident on the faces of the Filipino saints as they witnessed and heard the mouthpiece of the Lord offer up the dedicatory prayer blessing not only the island of Cebu but the whole country as well. The Temple welcomes faithful members who are ready to receive their temple ordinances and do the same work for their kindred dead. President Monson also invoked a blessing for all those who will rededicate themselves to temple work. The Cebu City Temple will serve more than 50,000 faithful saints from the southern part of the Philippines. The proximity of the temple to other islands will reduce the travel expenses of the members.
The night before the dedication more than 3,000 young men and women staged a live cultural presentation at the Cebu Coliseum. An approximate 9,000 audience sat in amazement and awe as colorful costumes and various dances from folk to interpretative were presented.
The 14-day public open house that started on May 21 – June 5 generated an average of 3,200 visitors per day. By the end of the 14th day an estimated 45,000 people visited the Temple. The open house allowed visitors to understand why temples are important to members of the church. Significant personalities in business, education, politics and the media were given special tours by members of the Area Presidency.
Situated in the hills of Lahug, the Cebu City Temple is a captivating landmark that could be visibly seen along the busy streets of a national road. Adjacent to the temple is a new stake center, patron housing, and a mission home within the temple complex.
Cornerstone Photos 1
Cornerstone Photos 2
Dedication Photos |
