Temples

 

10,000 people walked through the temple the day we were there. It was open house season. We were visiting dear friends who wanted to see it.  There is something special about this temple as it is where I took out my endowments so many years ago.  I was 19.  Just before my mission to Portugal.  It looks unreal in person and in picture.  

The feelings run deep. I have tried to share temples with my friends who are not of the same faith, even some of no faith.  They have been open and generous to me in letting me share something so sacred and personal with them.  To be there and not feel inspired is difficult. 

When I learned that there was a temple announced for Brasilia, Brazil my heart lept for joy.  It took about 5 years to build.  In September 2023 I was able to finally share Brazil with Chelta.  She had never been.  We spent a couple of days in Rio first (Seen Rio Post) but then I got to show her Brasilia!  (Another post)  I loved that the architecture matched so much of the unique brutalist architecture of Brasilia.

The main reasons for the trip was to see the temple and to share that with a dear high school friend who was interested in coming and walking through and learning a bit more about my faith.  It is a totally different structure compared to Washington D.C.  but no less special.  In some ways, even more.  Having lived there for 4 years and being part of the local congregations and being active in the missionary work meant we had some skin in the game.  So, having a temple anywhere means that there has been enough growth to support the local members with the ordinances and work that is done there to bind families together forever.  

 A special spirit resides around and in temples.  I have been to several open houses and dedications.  They are unforgettable.  The work done inside is not of this world.

A little of Brazil will always run through my veins....