title: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Nauru
text: # The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Nauru
  
  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Nauru refers to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and its members in Nauru. A branch was organized in 1984 with 16 members. It now has 133 members.
  
  ## History
  
  Church members began moving to Nauru in the early 1980s for employment. Church meetings were initially conducted in their homes. In April of 1984, Joseph B. Keeler, president of the MGM, visited Nauru, in which a branch was organized with 16 members. This branch became part of the Suva Fiji Mission on July 1, 1986.
  
  Church membership increases and declines with the demand of the phosphate rock, the island's chief export. Because of restrictions on proselytizing, church representatives are only allowed temporary visits to the island. The first couple to make periodic visits was Raymond and Lorraine Schmedes beginning in 1998. They assisted in establishing a Relief Society, Primary, and a seminary program. In February of 1999, the branch became part of the Tarawa Gilbert Islands district.
  
  ## Congregations
  
  Nauru has a single branch, the Nauru Branch. This branch is administered by the Marshall Islands/Kiribati Mission.
  
  ## Missions
  
  Nauru is located in the Marshall Islands/Kiribati Mission.
  
  ## Temples
  
  As of February 2023, Nauru was located within the Suva Fiji Temple district. Due to its location within the Marshall Islands/Kiribati Mission, it is anticipated it will be in the Tarawa Kiribati Temple district after it is dedicated.
  
  