Kona Hawaii Temple

Chapter 21

 Our Stake Relief Society Presidency asked the sisters in our stake to attend the temple in preparation for the General Women's Meeting that will be broadcast on March 29th.

The temple grounds look calm in this picture but I can assure you of the flurry of activity inside was well, let's say bursting at the seams! A stake from Maui is here for the week. I cannot imagine the sacrifice these dear brothers and sisters along with families make to attend the temple. They are not idle. They are a true definition of Deseret. It wasn't long ago that faithful members from our island would make the trek to the Laie Temple on Oahu.

 When Philip A. Harris was the Stake President of the Kona Hawaii Stake he prayed and pondered what the Lord would have him accomplish in his service as the Stake President. He had a dream that he saw a small temple built on a hill behind the Stake Center. His dream impressed him so much that he woke his wife. He knew that he needed to get his people temple ready even though there was no possibility logically that a temple would be built in Kona. When the announcement was made that smaller temples would be built he nearly jumped from his seat in excitement. A dream became a reality.

We are so blessed to have a temple on the Big Island. It sits on top of a little hill right above the Kona Stake Center. Children can roll down the slope and make the most wonderful memories. Behind the temple is a rock wall and a pasture with horses. The horses occasionally come and let you pet them. To the left out of the picture is a group home for teenagers. I often think, "Do they have any idea that they live in the shadow of Gods house?" LUCKY!!!!  Also, to the left is a busy highway.  There is a newly built pavilion where we can enjoy picnics. I will never forget what President Hee said during the dedication. He said, that he loved the murals on the walls. He meant the beauty of the ocean the temple the sunsets the palm tress since there are no walls only nature.  I would say the temple is snuggled in a perfectly beautiful spot. If I wasn't a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints I would wonder what goes on in that building?

So here is a short Mormon Message about Why Mormons Build Temples.

Enjoy! And lots of LOVE!