Monday, December 1, 2003 was the day journalists in Accra went to “heaven” inside the Church of Latter-Day Saints new temple.

After taking members of the press on an hour’s tour of their newly-erected multi-million dollar Accra-Ghana temple at Number 57 Independence Avenue, Northridge, leadership of the Africa West Area of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, led by Elder Sheldon F. Child, could not specify how much went into the funding of the project.

“The temple itself is imposing, built with remarkable workmanship and materials. The exterior is Namibian granite with intricately-crafted African granite used for the floors, and native Makore wood for all the mouldings. Also carved carpets, beautiful murals of the Ghanaian countryside, handcrafted furniture, and the special art glass windows, all reflect an African influence. Built by Africans from African materials, the Temple is a landmark all Africans can be proud of, Elder Child adds.

Before the press could be taken on their “divine” tour, those who had mobile phones were asked to switch them off, whilst those with cameras had their cameras collected. They were also made to wear white covers for their shoes before they were allowed to enter the temple.