President Nelson Rededicates the House of the Lord in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. — Tens of thousands of Latter-day Saints joined President Russell M. Nelson and his counselors as they rededicated the Washington, D. C. Temple Sunday morning.

It was a historic day because with all three members of the First Presidency in D.C. The temple was closed for renovation and because of the pandemic for more than 4 years.

Latter-day Saints in the Washington, D.C. area are overjoyed that it is once again open.

Thousands lined the temple sidewalks and many more participated from area meetinghouses in three services to rededicate this temple.

The house of the Lord in Washington, D.C., was rededicated this morning by President Russell M. Nelson.
“We ask Thee to accept this house as our offering to Thee and Thy Son as a place worthy of Thy holy habitation,” the prophet prayed. #DCTemplehttps://t.co/CyOpJqELU8

— The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (@Ch_JesusChrist) August 14, 2022

President Nelson led the first rededicatory service. This was their first trip since the pandemic, he loved seeing the Church members.

“Oh, wonderful, wonderful to be among them!” President Nelson exclaims.

President Nelson recognizes the renewal of this temple with each room refurbished from the entryway to the baptistery to the celestial room, and he also hopes that all who come realize its purpose.

“The temple is more beautiful now than I ever was, and it was stunning before! The temple is a step, a sacred step to eternal life for us and for our families,” President Nelson said.

President Dallin H. Oaks led the second service and President Henry B. Eyring was here for the third.

For nearly 50 years, this temple has stood as a landmark in our nation’s Capitol and during the Open House, nearly 350 thousand people toured it. But this day was for Latter-day Saints who live here and they are grateful.

“It was an honor to be close to the Presidency and to be able to hear them, to be able to be a witness to the dedication of the temple,” said Nadine Berrios, a Virginia resident.

“It’s a place of comfort, joy, one of peace, and one I get to share with her every time we come here. Can’t wait to come back!” said Austin and Rebecca Smith, also Virginia residents.

Old story of temple guard dog recalled during rededication weekend for Washington D.C. Temple

Several Church leaders also traveled to Washington for the weekend including, Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and Sister Amy A. Wright of the Primary General Presidency. Bill Marriott Jr. and his brother Dick, of Marriott International, also spoke.