The completion of the Accra Ghana Temple is a milestone for the Church, the first temple in West Africa, and the 117th temple worldwide.
The elegant granite edifice stands as evidence of the Church's commitment to West Africa, said Charles Sono-Koree, president of the Accra Ghana Lartebiokorshie Stake.
"The temple is also a spiritual landmark, and demonstrates our love for the Lord Jesus Christ," he said.
"Temples are very special buildings," said Elder Sheldon F. Child, president of the Africa West Area. "To members of our Church they are the most sacred places on earth. This temple will greatly benefit the people of the Church and all the peoples of West Africa."
He continued: "Temple attendance helps to teach our members to be good citizens of the country, honest employees, kind and sharing neighbors, good husbands and wives and better parents."
Built by Africans from African materials, the temple is a landmark all Africans can be proud of. The temple is imposing, built with remarkable workmanship and materials. The exterior of the temple is Namibian granite. Intricately crafted African granite was used for the floors, and native makore wood for all the moldings. Carved carpets, beautiful murals of the Ghanaian countryside, handcrafted furniture and special art-glass windows all reflect an African influence.
"This temple has more custom designs than most other temples," said Bengt Erlandsson, interior designer. To get his designs, he spent two weeks in Ghana visiting the markets and in addition, studied African culture and design for nearly two years.
Public tours of the Accra Ghana Temple began Wednesday, Dec. 3, and will continue through Dec. 20, 2003, excluding Sundays. Tours will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
While in Accra on Feb. 16, 1998, President Gordon B. Hinckley announced plans to construct a temple in Ghana. Ground was broken on Nov. 16, 2001. A second West Africa temple is under construction in neighboring Nigeria in the city of Aba.
Following the public open house, the temple will be closed for final preparations before its dedication, scheduled for Jan. 11, 2004.
Prior to the dedication, children and youth of the Church from throughout Ghana will present a program of traditional song and dance to celebrate the completion of the temple. More than 700 people will be performing "A Day of Celebration" for the public on Jan. 10 in the Accra Sports Stadium.
