St. Louis Missouri Temple Photography retrospectives featured in LDS Temple News
The St. Louis Missouri Temple, the 50th dedicated Temple in operation, is a significant site for many believers. Located at 12555 N Outer Forty Dr, St. Louis, Missouri, the Temple has become an integral part of the local landscape.
Key Milestones in Its History
The announcement for the St. Louis Missouri Temple was made public on October 29, 1990, by the Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley. This marks the beginning of a journey that culminated in its dedication after several important events. The groundbreaking and site dedication took place on October 30, 1993, also led by the Prophet Hinckley. This occasion drew an impressive crowd of 5,000 attendees.
A public open house ran from April 26, 1997, to May 24, 1997, with a remarkable turnout of 260,000 individuals. The dedication, which occurred from June 1 to June 5, 1997, was again officiated by Prophet Hinckley, further emphasizing its importance in the faith.
Architectural Features and Design
The St. Louis Missouri Temple is set on 14 acres of beautifully landscaped land and showcases stunning architectural features. With an exterior finish of cast stone and Bethel white granite featuring a thermal finish, the structure stands 150 feet tall. The Temple comprises 58,749 square feet distributed across three stories and includes four instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
The Angel Moroni Statue
One of the most notable features is the single attached end spire crowned with a Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue. This addition highlights the overall design and serves as a focal point, attracting attention from afar.
Historical Significance in Missouri
The St. Louis Missouri Temple holds a unique place in history as it is the first Temple built in the city of St. Louis, St. Louis County, and the state of Missouri. Although temple sites were dedicated in the 1830s in locations such as Independence, Far West, and Adam-ondi-Ahman, this Temple marks a new chapter for followers in the state.
Dedicatory Prayer Excerpt
At the dedication, the Prophet Hinckley reflected on the historical context of the Temple with the following excerpt: “We are reminded that this temple stands on the soil of the state of Missouri, where the Prophet and his associates suffered so much and were finally banished by a cruel and illegal order of extermination. Terrible were their losses, terrible their suffering. We are grateful that the extermination order has been revoked and the persecution is long since gone. Today Thy Church basks in the sunlight of goodwill. Hundreds of thousands have come to view this, Thy holy house. They have left with respect and appreciation.”
The St. Louis Missouri Temple continues to serve as a place of significance, embodying the hopes and aspirations of many. Its combination of historical importance, stunning design, and cultural relevance makes it a noteworthy addition to the area.