LDS Church to dedicate newest temple in Phoenix


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PHOENIX — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will open its newest temple in Arizona this weekend.

The Phoenix Arizona Temple will become the 144th LDS temple in the world when it is dedicated Sunday, but it’s actually the second temple to be dedicated in the Phoenix area this year.

Situated about 15 miles north of downtown, the Phoenix Arizona Temple stands in a quiet residential neighborhood.

Dave and Becca Jackson, members of the LDS Church, have lived in this neighborhood for five years and can see the temple from their home: "It's tremendous blessing to have a temple so close," Becca Jackson said.

The Jacksons said the beauty of the temple — both inside and out — has added to the feel of the neighborhood.

"Already through the open house, it has been a wonderful experience for our kids to learn about temples, to share their beliefs and the temple with many of their friends," Dave Jackson said.

The first temple in Arizona was completed in 1927 in Mesa. It was the Church’s seventh temple in the world. Ever since, it has served Latter-day Saints throughout much of the state.

In March, a new temple was dedicated in Gilbert, Arizona, a community about 15 miles south of Mesa. The new Phoenix Temple will provide a temple closer to Latter-day Saints who live not only in the Phoenix area, but in much of Northern Arizona.

Trent Murray spent this evening rehearsing for Sunday’s dedication — he will participate in one of the choirs.

"It's a chance of a lifetime for sure. I don't think I would get a chance like this again, so I'm super excited," said Cottonwood, Arizona, resident Trent Murray.

Saturday evening, thousands of Latter-day Saint youth will join together for a cultural celebration to honor the heritage of this community. KSL will have coverage on that and the dedication throughout the weekend.

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Sam Penrod

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