Members of the Portland Maine Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints received exciting news during a stake Christmas fireside on December 10, 2023. The church announced plans for the construction of the first temple in Maine, marking a significant milestone for the local community of over 11,000 Latter-day Saints.
Elder Allen D. Haynie, a member of the Quorum of the Seventy and president of the United States Northeast Area, conveyed the announcement. “We’re pleased to announce the construction of a temple in Portland, Maine. The specific location and timing will be disclosed later,” he stated. This development is seen as a blessing that will enhance members’ access to sacred ordinances and covenants unique to the house of the Lord.
The fireside—titled “Come Let Us Adore Him”—was held at the Portland stake center in North Yarmouth. Elder Haynie emphasized the importance of this announcement, noting that it is the first time a member of the area presidency has made such a declaration. “Tonight will be the first time,” he added, highlighting the uniqueness of the occasion.
This new temple announcement comes after a notable gap since the First Presidency, led by President Dallin H. Oaks, has made previous announcements. The last temple announcement prior to this was made during the October 2025 general conference, with no new temples introduced at that time.
The construction of the Portland Maine Temple will increase the total number of temples—operating, under construction, or announced—worldwide to 383. This departure from the recent tradition of announcing new temples primarily during semiannual general conferences underscores the significance of the occasion for local members.
Historically, Latter-day Saints have a long-standing presence in Maine, with the arrival of missionaries in 1832. The first branch was established in Saco that same year, and significant growth occurred throughout the mid-19th century. However, church activity waned after 1844 as members migrated westward to avoid persecution.
Missionary efforts resumed in 1904, leading to the establishment of local worship services in members’ homes. The first dedicated meetinghouses were built in Portland and Bangor in 1957. The Maine Stake, the first of its kind in the state, was organized on June 23, 1968.
As members of the Portland Maine Stake prepare for the new temple, they look forward to increased opportunities for worship and community engagement. The temple will serve as a spiritual hub, enhancing the local church’s ability to provide services and support to its congregants.
Elder Haynie’s announcement signifies a new chapter for the Latter-day Saints in Maine, promising a bright future filled with spiritual growth and community connection.
