On October 25, the Church released the following announcement:
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced a short-term closure of the Houston Texas Temple. The temple has not been in use since Hurricane Harvey dropped a record rainfall of 52 inches in Houston in late August. The ensuing rains breached the temple beginning August 26 and flooded the temple annex building, the temple basement and the main floor, with water rising to more than a foot. The second floor was not flooded or damaged.
In a letter to Church leaders, the First Presidency states, "The Houston Texas Temple is now closed to complete necessary renovations and repairs." The letter continues: "It is anticipated the renovation project will be completed in the spring of 2018. Following the completion of renovations, a simple rededication of the temple will be held."
A "simple rededication" will include a private dedication session with no public open house or cultural celebration.
Plans to build the temple were announced September 30, 1997. Ground was broken on June 13, 1998, by President Gordon B. Hinckley. It was dedicated August 26, 2000. The temple is located in northwest Houston in the community of Klein.
Latter-day Saint temples differ from meetinghouses or chapels where members meet for Sunday worship services. A temple is considered a "house of the Lord" where Christ's teachings are reaffirmed through marriage, baptism and other ordinances that unite families for eternity. Inside, members learn more about the purpose of life and make covenants to serve Jesus Christ and their fellow man.