The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, popularly known as Mormons, has announced a plan to build a temple in Huntsville.
LDS President Russell M. Nelson, considered a living prophet for the Salt Lake City-based denomination, announced plans for 17 new temples worldwide during the church’s general conference on Oct. 6.
When opened, it would be the second Mormon temple in Alabama. The Birmingham area temple opened in Gardendale in 2000.
Nelson has announced 185 new temples, more than half of all the previous temples, since 2018.
“Why are we building temples at such an unprecedented pace? Why? Because the Lord has instructed us to do so,” Nelson said. “The blessings of the temple help to gather Israel on both sides of the veil. These blessings also help to prepare a people who will help prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord.”
Before the construction of the temple in Gardendale, Mormons in Alabama performed their rituals at other temples, such as the one in Atlanta. Having a second temple will rank as a monumental achievement signifying growth for Latter-day Saints in Alabama.
When the temple in Gardendale was dedicated, President and Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley visited and presided. Hinckley died in 2008. Alabama now has more than 40,000 LDS members in about 75 congregations.
Much of the growth is driven by missionaries who go door-to-door, sharing their faith.
