Christmas Lighting on Temple Grounds

The cool breeze on the night of December 4 was accented by the Christmas season coming alive when thousands of lights filled the rolling landscape of the Manila Philippines Temple.  An amalgamation of lights and trees lit up the night sky while a Nativity scene prominently displayed in the middle of a sea of green complemented the colorful adornments. 

Thousands of guests are expected to visit the Temple grounds this year since it is open to the public.  The Christmas Lighting has become a yearly tradition which started more than 15 years ago.  Lights are turned on at dusk and turned off at 10 pm from Monday to Saturday and will be on display until the end of New Year's Eve.

When the switch was flipped this year, the lights used were already energy-conserving LED (light emitting diode).  LED lights are low energy and do not use nearly as much electricity which resul in saving energy and in saving costs.  LED lights are also cooler in temperature, protecting the trees from excess heat.  

The Philippines Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints invited friends to witness the ceremony.  Former ILRS (International Law and Religion Symposium) delegates to BYU Atty. Jo Imbong, Atty. Ric Castro and Atty. Jemy Gatdula together with their spouses attended the affair.  Madam Lina Laigo who has partnered with the Church in many FamNet (Family Network) projects with her family also attended. 

Elder Michael John U. Teh, Philippines Area President of the Church shared a message which highlighted the spirit of the season.  He emphasized the love of the Savior, Jesus Christ, and how He is the light of the world and in whose teachings and example we should follow.  

One of the guests said, “We truly appreciate the warmth, friendliness and generosity shown by everyone, which made the night meaningful and enjoyable.”