Fort Collins, Colorado – April 2, 2011 – The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints today announced the construction of a temple in Fort Collins. The temple will serve the needs of over 20,000 Church members in northern Colorado and southeastern Wyoming. It is expected that when completed the Fort Collins Colorado Temple may occupy approximately 17,000 square feet on land yet to be announced in Fort Collins.
Latter-day Saint temples differ from the Church’s meetinghouses or chapels where members meet for regular Sunday worship services and activities during the week. Temples are considered “houses of the Lord” where the teachings of Jesus Christ are reaffirmed through marriage, baptism and other ordinances that united families for eternity. In the temple, Church members learn more about the purpose of their own life by understanding more about Jesus Christ and following His teachings. They also strengthen their commitment to follow and serve Jesus Christ and those around them.
It is customary for the Church to open the doors of its temples to the public and the media before they are dedicated for sacred use by worthy Church members. The Church will also host a public ground breaking ceremony prior beginning construction on the Fort Collins Colorado Temple. Dates for both events are yet to be announced.