Announcement
The Lubumbashi Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple was announced by President Russell M. Nelson during the April 2022 General Conference on April 3, 2022. It will become the second temple in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, following the Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple. The announcement reflects the remarkable growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout Central Africa. At the time of the announcement, the Democratic Republic of the Congo was home to more than 100,000 members, and membership has continued to grow rapidly. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)
Current Status
The Lubumbashi Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple is currently under construction. The Church announced the temple site on September 18, 2023, selecting a 6.5-acre property along Route Kassapa, near the intersection with Route de la Kasapa, in the Kampemba commune of Lubumbashi. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)
The official exterior rendering was released on April 15, 2024, and groundbreaking services were held on August 17, 2024, with Elder Thierry K. Mutombo, President of the Africa Central Area, presiding. Plans call for a single-story temple of approximately 19,800 square feet, along with an arrival center and patron housing. Construction is progressing as crews continue work on the temple and supporting facilities. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)
What to Watch for Next
As construction continues, the next major milestones will include completion of the structural framework, exterior finishes, interior construction, landscaping, and eventually the announcement of public open house and temple dedication dates. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)
Nearest Operating Temple
Until the Lubumbashi Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple is dedicated, members in southeastern Congo primarily attend the Kinshasa Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple, often requiring extensive travel across the country. Once completed, the Lubumbashi Temple will dramatically reduce travel times for thousands of Latter-day Saints living in the southern and southeastern regions of the country and neighboring areas. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)
Final Thoughts
The Lubumbashi Democratic Republic of the Congo Temple represents another significant milestone in the rapid growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Central Africa. As the nation's second temple, it will provide much-needed access to temple ordinances for members who have faithfully traveled long distances for many years. With construction steadily progressing, the temple continues moving toward the day when it will bless generations of Latter-day Saints throughout the region. (churchofjesuschristtemples.org)
Scott & Riah
Brough Made
https://broughmade.com
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