TACLOBAN CITY - A two-story temple owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) will rise here.
It is the third in the Visayas and eighth in the country.
The 2.82-hectare site where the temple will be built is located on the Tacloban Bypass Road in Barangays Utap and Caibaan, the LDS Church said during the official release of artistic temple rendering on Tuesday.
The rendering provides the first look for the temple approximately 21,407-square feet.
Jhumer Operio, president of the Tacloban Stake (diocese) with members in this city and nearby towns, said the groundbreaking is set for Jan. 18, marking a significant moment of growth and access for church members in the six provinces of Eastern Visayas.
"The temple grounds is expected to be a peaceful place to visit for both locals and others who long for spiritual reflection and enlightenment. Its interior, even more heavenly for those qualified to enter," Operio said.
There are 13 temples in the Philippines that are either in operation, under construction, or announced.
The Manila Philippines Temple was the first in the country dedicated in 1984. Other operating temples are in Cebu and Urdaneta City.
Under construction are in Alabang, Davao, Bacolod City, and Cagayan de Oro City. Planned are in Naga City, Santiago City, Iloilo, Tuguegarao City, and Laoag City.
Worldwide, there are now 367 temples either dedicated, scheduled for dedication, under construction, or planned.
Of these, 202 are operating.
Temples are considered by church members to be the most sacred structures on Earth.
These structures differ from the meeting houses or chapels where members gather for Sunday worship services.
According to Operio, a temple is considered a "House of the Lord" where Christ's teachings are reaffirmed through marriage, baptism, and other ordinances that unite families for eternity.
Inside the temple, members learn more about the purpose of life and make covenants to serve Jesus Christ and their fellow man.