The Suva Fiji Temple

of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints


Fiji, a small island nation in the south pacific, underwent a dramatic and troubling crisis just before the temple at the capitol of Suva was to be dedicated. A group of rebels made up of native Fijians overthrew the democratically elected government, which was headed by several Fijians of Indian descent.

The crisis was in full swing during the open house and dedication of the temple. Because of the situation, the Church shortened the open house from two weeks to one, and restricted advertising about it. They also limited attendance at the dedication to the Stake presidencies and their families from the temple district and the Temple presidency. The crisis was resolved peacefully, but tensions remain between native and immigrant Fijians. However, several government and military leaders, both native and immigrant, toured the temple. They witnessed the unity of church members of both races and were impressed by their actions.

Construction workers found World War II era concrete bunkers on the site while digging the foundation. These bunkers were built to protect the island and save its people. Now, on the same ground, the temple will spiritually protect and save the people living there no matter what their race. It will also serve as a symbol of racial harmony to the whole island.

The temple was announced on 7 May 1998.
Ground was broken and construction begun on 8 May 1999.
The cornerstone was laid and the temple dedicated on 18 June 2000.
There are 2 Sealing rooms and 2 Ordinance rooms in the 10,800 square foot temple.
The spire is 75 feet tall.
The Suva Temple serves stakes and districts in Fiji, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Nauru and Tuvalu.

Representative Pictures of the Interior:

The Waiting Area.
Source: Media Kit.


The Baptistry.
Source: Media Kit.


One of the two Sealing Rooms.
Source: Media Kit.


One of the two Endowment Rooms.
Source: Media Kit.


The Celestial Room.
Source: Media Kit.

Rooms not Pictured:
None


Previous Temple.

Next Temple.


Back to The Chronological List.

Back to The Temple Guide.

Back to The Alphabetical List.


Back to Athens.