Exciting times are on the horizon for Maui as the island prepares to embrace its very first temple! The Kahului Hawaii Temple is in the works, and although we’re eager for details like the groundbreaking date and site location, there’s an undeniable excitement surrounding this project that you can feel in the air.

During the inspiring October 2023 General Conference, the Prophet Russell M. Nelson shared the thrilling news that plans are officially underway to bring the new Kahului Hawaii Temple to life. This isn’t just a structure; it’s a heartfelt symbol of over 170 years of Latter-day Saint presence in Hawaii, tracing back to the arrival of missionaries in 1850. Hawaii is so much more than a beautiful destination—it’s a vibrant center for our faith, home to the serene BYU–Hawaii campus and the lively Polynesian Cultural Center!

Currently, Hawaii is home to two temples: the Kona Hawaii Temple, which has been making waves with its major renovations since its dedication in 2000, and the historic Laie Hawaii Temple, steadfast in its service since 1919. With nearly 75,000 members across 145 congregations in the state of Hawaii, the faith community is thriving—especially among the more than 4,500 devoted members on Maui.

Kahului is situated about 25 miles east of Lahaina, a community that recently faced the tragic impact of a wildfire in August, which took lives and devastated homes. In the wake of this crisis, the Church has stepped up to provide generous support for relief efforts, embodying the spirit of compassion and unity. The new Kahului Hawaii Temple is set to be a radiant beacon of hope and healing, offering comfort and bringing the community together as they rebuild and move forward.

Let’s celebrate this pivotal moment together—Maui’s journey towards a new temple is not just a project, it’s a testament to faith, resilience, and community!