Elder Neil L. Andersen shared a notable statistic last weekend at RootsTech 2025, a global genealogy conference.
“In only a few years, 80% of all the temple recommend holders in the Church will be within an hour of a temple,” he said. “It is a glorious day, isn’t it? The love of our Savior Jesus Christ and the power, the protection, the peace—all of which comes from His holy house—will be so important as we prepare for our Savior’s Second Coming.”
In only a few years, 80% of all the temple recommend holders in the Church will be within an hour of a temple.
This increased access to temples reflects the ongoing proliferation of temple construction worldwide.
For example, in October 2024, President Russell M. Nelson announced plans for 17 new temples, including the first temples in Ireland and Uganda. Only one month later, he dedicated the Church’s 200th temple—the Deseret Peak Utah Temple.
Today, there are currently 367 temples operating, announced, or under construction, and early construction work for the future Vancouver Washington Temple started just this week.
Read the latest updates about temples being built around the world here.
Promises Fulfilled
This rapid growth in temple construction is evidence of the Lord’s love for His children, as Elder Andersen has taught. In the April 2024 general conference, the Apostle shared:
“Why is the Lord now bringing hundreds of His temples closer to us? One reason is that amid the turmoil and temptations of the world, He has promised to strengthen and bless His covenant Saints, and His promises are being fulfilled! ...
“In this day of confusion and commotion, I testify that the temple is His holy house and will help preserve us, protect us, and prepare us for the glorious day when, with all His holy angels, our Savior returns in majesty, power, and great glory.”
Listen to Elder Andersen’s full remarks at RootsTech 2025 in the player below.
More articles for you:
▶ 2 thought-provoking Greek words shared by Pres. Nelson
▶ ‘All In’ host shares must-read story in moving BYU–Hawaii devotional
▶ 2 urgent lessons Pres. Holland learned from his near-death experience
