14/05/2026
Sagay Philippines Stake of Zion Members Unite in Service and Devotion at Bacolod Temple Open House
BACOLOD CITY, Philippines
In a powerful demonstration of faith, fellowship, and volunteerism, members of the Sagay Philippines Stake gathered at the newly completed Bacolod Philippines Temple on May 1, 2026. The day was marked by dedicated service as youth and adult members volunteered as ushers and usherettes, while hundreds of others journeyed to experience the peace of the Lord's house first-hand.
The public open house, which ran from April 16 through May 2, 2026, transformed the Bacolod Airport Access Road into a hub of spiritual unity. On May 1, one of the final days of the public viewing, brothers, sisters, and young men and women from the Sagay Stake stepped into the vital role of ushers and usherettes. Dressed in white and radiating joy, they stood as the first point of contact for thousands of visitors from across Negros Island. They guided patrons through the arrival procedures, assisted with footwear covers, offered directions throughout the temple grounds, and ensured that the flow of guests remained organized and reverent. Their calm presence and willingness to serve helped create a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for every visitor. They also warmly greeted interfaith guests with the kindness that mirrors Bacolodβs title as the "City of Smiles." Through their quiet but meaningful acts of service, the ushers and usherettes became instruments in helping others feel the spirit and sacredness of the temple experience.
Many visitors expressed gratitude for the patience, attentiveness, and cheerful demeanor shown by the volunteers. Whether assisting elderly guests, answering questions from first-time visitors, or helping families feel comfortable during the tour, the ushers and usherettes exemplified Christlike service and hospitality. Their efforts played a significant role in making the open house both orderly and spiritually uplifting for all who attended.
Simultaneously, buses and vehicles carried large groups of Sagay Stake members to the temple grounds for their long-awaited tours. For many, May 1 represented a historic milestoneβa chance to step inside the finished sacred structure before its formal dedication on May 31, 2026, by Neil L. Andersen. During the 20-minute guided tours, members walked through the beautifully crafted interior, which features design elements inspired by traditional Barong shirts and local flora like the Bird of Paradise and native lilies. Walking through the baptistry, ordinance rooms, and the Celestial Room, the Saints from Sagay reflected deeply on the eternal covenants that will soon bind their families together forever.
The dual experience of serving and touring left a profound imprint on the hearts of the Sagay Saints. "Being here to witness our brothers and sisters serve as ushers and usherettes and to walk through these rooms together reinforces why we sacrifice for the gospel," shared one participating member. "The temple brings a unique peace that we can now take back to our homes in Sagay."
As the open house concluded to make way for the upcoming dedication, the members of the Sagay Stake returned home spiritually renewed, carrying the light of the temple back to their local congregations and neighborhoods.
