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April 6, 2000
President and Sister Hinckley were among the first to arrive early this morning, followed by LDS church members-- some from the surrounding area, some from around the country. They came to see the sealing of the cornerstone and dedicatory services for a temple they never imagined they'd see.
Hannah Miller/ Buffalo, New York: "This is a monumental day, to see the prophet of the church dedicate this amazing building. It's so important to me personally and to our religion. You can just feel the feeling, it's very special."
Sharon Davis/ Rockport, New York: "This is a day we've waited for for a long, long, long, long time. I've been in the church 25 years and I can hardly believe it's happening-- a temple here close to home."
The day itself has great significance. On April 6, 1830 the LDS Church was established with six people. Now there are nearly 11-million in 161 countries and territories.
Church members mark this day for another reason.
Elder Craig Zwick/ LDS Church Area Presidency: "April 6 we also believe is-- 2000 years ago--the birth of the Savior. So it's a significant date for us and one that President Hinckley had really planned on. He looks forward to this date, and we sense the emotion."
For a brother and sister who grew up on the Joseph Smith farm-- their parents were the first missionaries here in 1915-- this is nothing short of a miracle.
Palmyra Bean Packer: "...to think we'd get the monument on the hill--that was wonderful. Now we have a temple, which is just unbelievable. We never would have considered thinking about it."
Dedicatory services continued throughout the day.
More Information:
(From LDS Church)
Associated Press Story
