LDS Church Holds 196th General Conference, Opens Renovated Temple Square to Public
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held its 196th Semiannual General Conference on October 3-4, 2026, in Salt Lake City. The weekend also marked the public opening of Temple Square after nearly seven years of renovation, with thousands visiting during the conference.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints held its 196th Semiannual General Conference on October 3 and 4, 2026, in Salt Lake City. President Dallin H. Oaks presided over the four sessions, which featured messages centered on faith, trust in God, and the global reach of the church.
The conference weekend also marked a milestone for Temple Square. After nearly seven years of renovation, the historic site officially opened to the public. Thousands of visitors toured the grounds during the conference weekend.
Speakers at the conference included Elder Dale G. Renlund and Elder Gary E. Stevenson, who urged attendees to trust in God's promises and recognize their identity as children of God. Elder Patrick Kearon spoke on the Savior's role in lifting people from despair. Elder Gérald Caussé addressed the responsibility of disciples to bear witness of Christ.
Thirteen musicians from 13 different countries joined The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square to perform during the Saturday and Sunday sessions. Church leaders also invited the world to participate in the upcoming Salt Lake Temple Celebration planned for 2027.
During a leadership session on October 1, one new Area Seventy was sustained. The church also released a six-part video series titled "Dedicate," which documents the renovation of the Salt Lake Temple.
