The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held its bi-annual General Conference over the weekend which included messages against bigotry and the announcement of 5 new temples.
Church President Thomas S. Monson, whose declining health kept him from attending two of the weekend’s five sessions, announced the new temples Sunday morning.
The locations include Brasília, Brazil; the greater Manila, Philippines, area; Nairobi, Kenya; Pocatello, Idaho and Saratoga Springs, Utah.
The temple in Saratoga Springs will be the 18th for Utah and the 5th for Utah County.
Many of the weekend’s speakers warned against feelings of divisiveness and hatred, including Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
“Church history gives ample evidence of our members being treated with hatred and bigotry," said Renlund. "How ironically sad it would be if we were to treat others as we have been treated.”
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the church’s governing First Presidency added to this theme by condemning scare tactics. Saying he is grieved when he hears about fear-induced obedience in some Mormon homes and congregations.
“Often people may condemn bullying in others yet that cannot see it in themselves," Uchtdorf said.
Uchtdorft also announced a new Relief Society general presidency that will oversee the 6 million women in the church.
Jean B. Bingham, a native of Provo, Utah, will serve as the organization’s 17th president.
