SAVAI’I, SAMOA – In a groundbreaking announcement during the October 2023 General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Russell M. Nelson revealed plans to construct a temple on the island of Savai’i in Samoa. This announcement has generated waves of joy and anticipation among the local Latter-day Saint community and represents a significant development in the Church’s efforts to bring temple worship closer to its members worldwide.
“Spending more time in the temple builds faith. And your service and worship in the temple will help you to think celestial,” stated President Nelson, emphasizing the importance of temples in the lives of Church members.
This temple will be the second in Samoa, with the first located in Apia on the neighboring island of Upolu. Savai’i is home to 47 congregations and also boasts a Church high school.
Aleni Fuatimau, Church communication director for Samoa, expressed his surprise and gratitude upon hearing the news. “I feel so happy for the people in Savai’i. This will bless the lives of those who live in Savaii. I am so grateful to Heavenly Father for answering the prayers of our people. I believed we could have a temple here, but I didn’t know it would happen so soon.”
The island nation of Samoa, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, will now also be recognized as a location with two temples dedicated to the worship and teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Alongside the Savai’i temple, President Nelson announced 19 other temple locations spanning across various continents, reflecting the global growth of the Church and its dedication to making temple blessings accessible to all its members.
Residents and church members in Savai’i are eagerly anticipating the construction and eventual dedication of their temple, seeing it as not only a beacon of their faith but also a symbol of the island’s spiritual growth and dedication.