Construction of New Temple in Cagayan de Oro Philippines by LDS

In a significant announcement made on April 1, 2018, the plans for establishing the Cagayan de Oro Philippines Temple were unveiled, marking a pivotal moment for the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the region and beyond. Situated on a sprawling 4.9-acre site at Lot 2163-c and Lot 2163-d Rosario Limketkai Avenue, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, this temple is poised to become a beacon of faith and unity in the heart of the Philippines.

Architectural Marvel in the Making

The Cagayan de Oro Philippines Temple is designed to be a two-story edifice encompassing approximately 18,449 square feet (1,714 square meters), offering a sacred space for church members to engage in spiritual activities and connect with their faith. Alongside the main temple structure, an ancillary building is also in the plans, which will house an arrival center, patron housing, and a distribution center, further enhancing the temple’s role as a community hub for members and visitors alike.

A Growing Spiritual Landscape in the Philippines

The addition of the Cagayan de Oro Philippines Temple contributes to the country’s expanding presence of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. With 13 temples at various stages of operation, construction, and announcement, the Philippines is an attestation to the church’s growing community and commitment to providing sacred spaces for worship and spiritual growth. Notably, the country currently hosts two operating temples in Manila and Cebu, with four more under construction (Alabang, Bacolod, Davao, Urdaneta) and seven announced, including the one in Cagayan de Oro.

A Testament to Global Faith

Globally, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints continues to expand its reach, with 355 temples worldwide in different phases: operating, under construction, undergoing renovation, or announced. This global network of temples serves as a cornerstone for the church’s members, offering peace, reflection, and connection to the divine.

Interfaith Harmony and Cultural Celebration

In line with the church’s mission to foster unity and understanding among diverse faith communities, a special event was held on February 3, 2024, in collaboration with the World Interfaith Harmony Organization. Hosted at the Kauswagan LDS Chapel in Cagayan de Oro, this gathering brought together religious leaders from various backgrounds to celebrate World Interfaith Harmony Week. The event highlighted the church’s efforts in preparing for the construction of the new temple and featured an upcoming concert by the Tabernacle Choir in the Philippines, starring the world-renowned Ms. Lea Salonga. This concert will showcase global talent and feature two participants from Cagayan de Oro, symbolizing the city’s rich cultural heritage and contribution to global harmony.

A Bright Future Ahead

Establishing the Cagayan de Oro Philippines Temple and the associated cultural and interfaith initiatives underscore the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ commitment to fostering community, faith, and harmony locally and globally. As the construction progresses, the temple in Cagayan de Oro is set to become a place of worship and a symbol of unity and peace for people of all faiths in the region and beyond.