May 26, 2016 marks the 20th anniversary of the dedication of the China Hong Kong Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Located on Cornwall Street, Kowloon Tong, the eight-story Hong Kong Temple, topped with an eight-foot tall golden statue of the Angel Moroni, is well-known in the area, and even all over Hong Kong for its unique architectural style and design. It won the Architectural Design Excellence Award in 1996.
Over the years, the Hong Kong Temple has attracted many passers-by, wanting to go inside. Yet they are disappointed when they find out it is not open to the public. Some may wonder if that’s due to any secrets inside LDS temples.
| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints actually welcomes all truth-seekers. It does not matter whether they are members of the Church or not — everyone on a quest for spiritual truth can come and worship at LDS chapels.
Chapels and temples built by the Church are different. Just as recorded in the Bible, the ordinances performed inside LDS temples are exceedingly sacred – such as temple marriages. Therefore, after the dedication of the temple, only worthy members of the Church, who are ready to make higher covenants with God, can enter the temple and perform the sacred ordinances within.
The temple itself is neither mysterious nor secretive. In most circumstances, before a temple is dedicated, it will first be opened to the public for visits.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has 150 temples all over the world today. The Hong Kong Temple is the fifth one built in Asia, after Japan, the Philippines, Taiwan and South Korea. Since its dedication, it mainly serves members in Asia.
To learn about how the Hong Kong Temple came to be, please click here.