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    2 March 2023 - PORT VILA, Vanuatu
    News Release

    Missionaries Safe as Vanuatu Declares a State of Emergency and Braces for Second Cyclone

    Port Vila Temple Groundbreaking postponed

    A state of emergency has been declared in Vanuatu following damage caused by the severe tropical cyclone Judy and the bearing down of a second cyclone, Kevin.

    The Port Vila Temple groundbreaking for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which was to be held on Saturday, 4 March 2023, has been postponed.

       
    Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. 1 / 2
         
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      Latter-day Saint leaders in Vanuatu have confirmed that all missionaries were accounted for and safe on the evening of 2 March 2023.  

      On the island of Efate, homes and businesses were flooded. Efforts to contact Church leaders and ensure that individuals and families are safe in the outer islands is continuing.

      The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is ready to assist with emergency relief.

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      Style Guide Note:When reporting about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, please use the complete name of the Church in the first reference. For more information on the use of the name of the Church, go to our online Style Guide.