SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will close all of its temples starting Wednesday night until further notice in response to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

"After careful and prayerful consideration, and with a desire to be responsible global citizens, we have decided to suspend all temple activity," a letter from the church's First Presidency reads.

Anyone with an existing appointment will be notified by temple staff to confirm its cancellation. When temples reopen, individuals will need to contact temple staff to reschedule.

Church members with questions are encouraged to reach out to local leaders.

Before Wednesday’s announcement, the church had already closed several of its temples worldwide, including two in Utah.

Complete temple closures are just the latest in a string of changes the church has made in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Church services were suspended worldwide and the faith’s general conference, scheduled for next week, will be held only virtually.

"This is a temporary adjustment, and we look forward to the day when the temples will reopen," the letter says.