Harare Zimbabwe Temple Open House Commences
The Harare Zimbabwe Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is set to open for public tours this week. This much-anticipated open house begins on January 22 and runs until February 7, 2026, with the exception of Sundays.
Harare Zimbabwe Temple Dedication
Elder Gerrit W. Gong, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, will dedicate the temple on March 1, 2026. This dedicatory session will be broadcast to congregations within the Harare Zimbabwe Temple district.
Exclusive Media Day and Tours
A media day is planned for January 19, 2026. Invited guests will have special access to tour the temple on January 20 and 21, 2026.
Significance of the Temple
This temple holds particular importance as it will be the first of its kind in Zimbabwe. Since 1985, Latter-day Saints in Southern Africa have traveled to Johannesburg to access temple services. With the establishment of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple, over 46,000 Latter-day Saints in Zimbabwe and surrounding regions will have local access to sacred ceremonies.
Historical Context
The temple was announced in 2016 by then-President Thomas S. Monson, when there were 150 temples operating globally. Nearly ten years later, this number has surged to 383 temples either dedicated, under construction, or announced worldwide. President Dallin H. Oaks stated in 2024, “The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is constructing temples all over the world…”
Design Elements of the Temple
The architectural design of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple incorporates elements that reflect the local culture and environment. The stained-glass windows feature a floral motif that represents Zimbabwe’s national flower, the flame lily. Additionally, various native plants, such as Aloe ballii and Wentzel’s sugarbush, are highlighted in the temple’s artwork and rugs.
Understanding Temples
Latter-day Saints view temples as the most sacred spaces for worship. Unlike meetinghouses, which are open for regular Sunday services, temples focus on sacred rites. These include marriages that unite families eternally and proxy baptisms for ancestors who missed the opportunity during their lifetimes.
Conclusion
The opening of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple marks a significant milestone for Latter-day Saints in Zimbabwe, providing a local place for worship and sacred ceremonies.
