President Dallin H. Oaks dedicated the Burley Idaho Temple on January 11, 2026. This event marks the first temple dedication under his leadership as the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints since he assumed the role in October 2025. The Burley Idaho Temple is significant for the region as it represents the seventh temple in Idaho and the 212th operating temple worldwide.
Significance of the Burley Idaho Temple
The Burley Idaho Temple holds personal significance for President Oaks. Growing up in nearby Twin Falls, he expressed a deep connection to the area, stating, “I chose Burley to revisit my roots.” His childhood experiences in the region influenced his desire to dedicate this temple.
Key Figures at the Dedication
Joining President Oaks at the ceremony was Sister Kristen Oaks and several other church leaders, including:
- Elder Steven R. Bangerter
- Elder José A. Teixeira
- Elder K. Brett Nattress
Each expressed their excitement about this new house of the Lord, emphasizing the importance of temples in the community and personal lives.
Spiritual Importance and Community Support
President Oaks emphasized the temple’s role in the lives of church members, stating that temples are central to Heavenly Father’s plan. They offer sacred covenants and blessings that extend beyond mortality, benefiting both the living and the deceased. He stated, “Here in His house, we make sacred covenants in the name of Jesus Christ.”
The Role of Youth
Youths in the Burley area are especially enthusiastic about the temple. President Oaks expressed hope that the increased accessibility of the temple would inspire more young people to engage in spiritual work. Attendees at the dedication echoed these sentiments, highlighting the temple’s positive influence on their lives and their aspirations for future temple service.
Historical Context and Construction
The Burley Idaho Temple was announced by President Russell M. Nelson on April 4, 2021, during a general conference. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on June 4, 2022. The temple spans 10.12 acres, features a building size of 45,300 square feet, and reaches a height of 172 feet, including the spire.
Burley Idaho Temple Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 40 S. 150 East, Burley, Idaho 83318 |
| Announced | April 4, 2021 |
| Groundbreaking | June 4, 2022 |
| Public Open House | November 6 – November 22, 2025 |
| Dedicated | January 11, 2026 |
A Conclusion of Faith and Hope
The Burley Idaho Temple stands as a testament to the faith of local members and the enduring connection to their religious heritage. As President Oaks reflected on the past, he affirmed that time in the temple provides eternal blessings to families, reaffirming the church’s commitment to its foundational teachings centered on families.
The joy and excitement surrounding this temple dedication illustrate the community’s readiness to embrace its spiritual significance and the benefits it will bring for generations to come.
