LDS Temple News Presents Elko Nevada Temple a House of the Lord
The Elko Nevada Temple holds a distinctive place as the 209th dedicated temple in operation. Serving as a spiritual center for many, this House of the Lord represents a major milestone in the region’s religious landscape.
Location and History
The Elko Nevada Temple is situated at 2102 Ruby Vista Dr, Elko, NV 89801. Its journey began when it was announced to the public on April 4, 2021, by Prophet Russell M. Nelson during the General Conference. The groundbreaking and dedication of the House of the Lord took place on May 7, 2022, led by Paul B. Pieper.
Architectural Features
This structure is built on 5.2 acres and features an exterior finished in White Mount Airy Granite stone veneer. Standing at an impressive height of 108.10 feet and covering 12,901 square feet, the Elko Nevada Temple is designed as a single-story House of the Lord. One of its noteworthy architectural features is the single attached end spire that does not include a Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue.
The temple is designed to include various dedicated spaces like one instruction room, one sealing room, and a baptistry. The interior design reflects the region’s natural beauty, with light fixtures crafted from brass frosted glass, and doors made from sapele wood featuring brass hardware.
Artistic Elements
Incorporating local culture into its design, the Elko Nevada Temple showcases art glass featuring motifs like the desert globemallow, mirroring the vibrant high-desert landscapes surrounding Elko. The color palette incorporates shades of orange, yellow, and green, while geometric patterns pay homage to the Paiute and Shoshone tribes.
The interior also displays significant artwork from notable artists, including three principal landscape paintings and various scriptural and figurative works. Featured artists include Michael Coleman with “Lamoille Canyon,” David Dibble’s “Elko Landscape,” and Louis Heinzman’s “Autumn Sun — Ruby Mountains.” Noteworthy sacred art pieces by Michael Malm, Albin Veselka, and Jeff Hein enhance the interior’s spiritual atmosphere.
Dedication and Coverage
The Elko Nevada Temple was dedicated on October 12, 2025, by Apostle Gary E. Stevenson. During the dedicatory prayer, he remarked, “May this holy house be a symbol of light and peace and a strength for all eyes that fall upon it.” This temple is the first in the city of Elko and the first in Elko County, as well as the third temple built in Nevada.
Upon its dedication, the House of the Lord became the northernmost temple in Nevada and covers an expansive district that includes communities in six large counties, representing around 46.5% of the state’s area, or approximately 51,389 square miles. Notably, the dedication of this temple marked a significant occasion, as it was the first time since 1888 that a House of the Lord was dedicated during a period of apostolic interregnum.
Conclusion
The Elko Nevada Temple stands as a testament to faith and perseverance, blending local culture and natural beauty into its architecture and art. This House of the Lord not only serves those who seek divine guidance but also enriches the region’s landscape with its presence and purpose.