Houston Texas Temple
Wanted to share this Temple with you today, due to the interesting manner in which the ground was acquired for the construction of this holy edifice, and in light of the recent flooding in Texas.
This Temple was announced on September 30, 1997. The Temple property was on the market for some time prior to President Gordon B. Hinckley visit to Houston for possible locations, upon his arrival the property wasn't available but President Hinckley requested to see the land anyway.
Image Credit
The Property belonged to Mr. Don Hand, a developer in Houston. In the 1980's Mr. Hand faced financial bankruptcy when the Houston economy took a downturn, he prayed and pleaded with the Lord to spare him this fate and in return he will repay the debt in the future.
After President Hinckley visited the property he told the relator Mr. Cook that was the desired location. However Mr. Cook inquired of Mr. Hand and his response was "No amount of money would interest me in selling that property". After explaining to Mr. Hand the intended purpose of the use of the property, he remembered his promise to the Lord and agreed to sell.
Image Credit
This marked the 97th Temple for The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints. Groundbreaking was done on June 13, 1998, construction was completed and the Temple dedicated on August 27, 2000.
