In preparation for the temple dedication on Sunday (today--the first session is happening even as I am typing), Elder and Sister Ellis organized a fireside with a member of the temple presidency--President Sederholm--who serves as the first counselor. He did a great job, sharing about his courtship and marriage to his wife in the Manti Temple and then talking about the importance of temples. He allowed time for some questions and answers. Two things I remember from that section:
1. The question was asked, "Was there any barriers or opposition to the temple being built here?" His reply'' "Other than Covid, not really. The Church members here have such a positive reputation in the area that the building permits and everything went smoothly with 100% support from the city."
2. A convert who joined the Church in July asked, "Is it common as members of the Church to feel so connected to a temple--for me I just love the Bentonville Temple so much. Is that just a convert thing?" Elder Sederholm and all of us could answer that question. His reply was "The Manti Temple has always been that for me because that is where I married my wife--the best thing in my life. However, I am guessing that as I serve in the Bentonville Temple, it will reach that same level of connection to me as Manti. We will see."
Most of us are attached to a temple or two....or many. Temples are unique places and also holy places and they can bring out the very best in ourselves. We love them for that!
Afterwards, we had a cake with cream cheese frosting. I had spent my afternoon making ours and figuring out how to transport the individual parts to Bentonville (about 90 minutes away) and keep them cold. We managed and the desserts were great.
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