This conference, however, found my mind encumbered by no such speculation. I was really mostly just excited to listen to the living prophet and apostles. My former speculation, fortunately, was not powerful enough to keep the Lord from showering this blessing upon his people here.
We actually first learned of the announcement through my sister Elizabeth, who texted me the moment it was announced. She beat the internet connection we were watching by a minute or two, which is why her text took us by such great surprise. Upon hearing of the announcement, I sent a text message to my friend Vai Sikahema on the subject asking if he had any previous or further knowledge. He responded immediately, also via text message. This is what his text said:
"Yes. I was involved in discussion bc (Vai speaks in txt) Trey (Vai's son) worked 4 mayor nutter & mayor was helpful. Broad & Spring Garden!!!!"
There is much remarkable about what he said, among them, the fact that Philadelphia's mayor is reputable AND supportive. Of course, what could do more to improve a city than the presence of a House of the Lord? I'm glad the decision seemed so obvious to our chief municipal executive.
So, I do believe this is the site. You're welcome to find it on google.com/maps street view for yourself. The location is Broad and Spring Garden, Philadelphia, PA
I'm up for getting together with some other people who would accept my $10 (or more if I can get a raise :) ) towards a fund to buy the parking lot across the street to convert into a visitor's center. Or garden. Or Family History Center. Or something the church could use to benefit the area further. SEPTA subway stops, such as is also to be found on this corner, are not always famous for the upstanding characters they attract. . .
The location, not by coincidence, is only a few subway stops up the Broad Street line from our tiny Branch. Both seem to be unexpected locations for sacred buildings (then again, our branch doesn't exactly have it's own building. It's more of a one-stop shop; Hollywood tans, Income Tax, The Church of Jesus Christ. . .)
There's our branch, the blue glass building you see in this image :)
We'll keep you posted with any further information. . .
8 comments:
That is pretty awesome that you knwo Vai Sikahama well enough that you can just text him like that. I am *beyond thrilled* that the temple is going to be downtown/in the city proper. We had just assumed that it was going to be in the 'burbs, which makes it way hard for us city-folk to get there. But this... is amazing!
We are so excited!!!!
Yay, yay, yay! Thank you so much for posting your information. I bet Jon's parents nearly fell out of their chairs when they heard the announcement. The church was so small when they first moved to Philadelphia. We assumed that it would be in Valley Forge. So exciting.
Preethi, do you happen to know if we (the members of the temple district/stake) will be able ot help with any of the temple construction/decorations/etc?
Dan and Preethi both, reading your blog just makes me plain happy. Thank you for writing.
Katie, we didn't even know you had a blog! We're excited to see you. And that you, too, are so excited! Also, we don't know any details about helping out with anything, but I'm sure they will take all the help they can get.
Alex & Jon, you guys are the best. I know this must be so meaningful to you. We love you! And are glad you're back to posting on your blog. ;)
Wow, it's actually being built IN the city. Exciting.
I wonder which Temple District I'll be in now...Philly or D.C.?
I was so loving conference too as always. When the announcements came of the new temple sites I thought of you and Jay and Sheena and how nice it will be to have a temple in Philadelphia. :) I was so excited for you guys.
that is awesome news. i remember when they announced the detroit temple and how much it blessed my family and friends. i am so excited for the philly temple :-)
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