Lethbridge Breaks Ground on New Temple, Anticipating Economic and Community Growth

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the city of Lethbridge witnessed a significant milestone as ground was broken for the new Lethbridge Alberta Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

This temple, the fourth in Alberta and the tenth in Canada, is set to become a beacon of faith and community engagement.

Elder Randall K. Bennett, a General Authority Seventy and president of the North America Central Area, presided over the ceremony.

Addressing the attendees, he emphasized the temple's role in fostering spiritual growth and unity.

He urged members to be intentional about scheduling time to be in the temple, promising that it would change their lives.

The event drew over 550 guests, including approximately 100 interfaith, government, business, and Indigenous representatives.

This diverse attendance underscores the temple's significance beyond the Latter-day Saint community.

Lethbridge Mayor Blaine Hyggen expressed his gratitude for being part of such a meaningful day, stating his anticipation for the temple's completion.

The temple's construction is expected to have a substantial impact on the local economy.

With a planned multistory building of approximately 45,000 square feet, the project will create numerous construction jobs and stimulate local businesses.

Once completed, the temple is anticipated to attract visitors from surrounding areas, boosting tourism and benefiting local retailers, restaurants, and service providers.

Located at the corner of Whoop Up Drive West and Mauretania Road West, the temple's site is strategically positioned to serve not only Lethbridge but also neighboring communities.

This accessibility is expected to encourage more frequent visits, further integrating the temple into the region's social and economic fabric.

The temple's design includes extensive landscaping with native plants, grasses, and flowers, aiming to harmonize with its surroundings and provide a serene environment for visitors.

Additionally, the grounds will feature two ancillary buildings: one for grounds maintenance and another serving as a distribution center for church members.

Community leaders have highlighted the temple's potential to enhance the city's appeal.

By attracting new residents and visitors, the temple could contribute to the local tax base, supporting infrastructure development and public services.

Moreover, the influx of visitors is expected to spur commercial development, particularly on the west side of the city, reducing congestion and promoting sustainable growth.

The groundbreaking ceremony also featured participation from Indigenous leaders, emphasizing the temple's role as a place of unity and peace for all.

Blood Tribe Indigenous elder Floyd Big Head offered a spontaneous blessing on the temple site, praying that the future building would be a place of unity and lead people to the good life.

As construction progresses, the Lethbridge Alberta Temple stands as a testament to the city's evolving landscape, blending spiritual enrichment with economic development.

Its presence is poised to strengthen community bonds, attract new opportunities, and serve as a symbol of unity and growth for years to come.