Discovering the Grand Junction Colorado Temple
The Grand Junction Colorado Temple holds the distinction of being the 210th dedicated temple in operation. Conveniently located at 678 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction, CO 81506, this House of the Lord reflects the rich history and dedication of its community.
Grand Junction Colorado Temple media by LDS Temple News
The announcement of the Grand Junction Colorado Temple was made by Prophet Russell M. Nelson during the General Conference on April 4, 2021. This was a significant moment, particularly as it marked the third temple for Colorado. Following the Denver Colorado Temple, established in 1986, and the Fort Collins Colorado Temple in 2016, the Grand Junction Temple underscores the church’s growth in the region. In 1896, the first church mission in Colorado was established, paving the way for the first official congregation in January 1897. At the time of the temple’s announcement, over 150,000 Latter-day Saints and around 310 congregations were present in the area.
Groundbreaking and Dedication
The groundbreaking and dedication of the Grand Junction Colorado Temple took place on April 16, 2022, presided over by Apostle Chi Hong Sam Wong of the Quorum of the Seventy. The location, spanning 6.94 acres at the intersection of Horizon Drive and North 12th Street, houses a temple constructed with a steel and concrete frame elegantly clad in Portuguese Pedras Salgadas granite. This choice of material harmonizes beautifully with the rugged high-desert surroundings.
Elder Wong expressed gratitude during the dedicatory prayer, stating, “We are grateful for the Atonement of Thy Son, Jesus Christ, and the blessing of the promised Resurrection.”
Architectural Features
Design and Size
Measuring a total of 29,630 square feet, the Grand Junction Colorado Temple reaches a height of 118.8 feet, standing prominently at an elevation of 4,692 feet. Its design features a single attached end spire and no Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue. Internally, the temple includes two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
Art and Décor
The interior of the Grand Junction Colorado Temple showcases a palette inspired by local flora, incorporating colors such as crimson, amber, green, and pale pink. Mineo marble serves as the primary flooring material, accentuated by varieties like New Saffron, Red Jasper, Verde Laguna, and Quetzal Green. The custom-designed carpets enhance the natural warmth throughout the House of the Lord, reflecting organic patterns found in the landscape.
The artwork in the temple features contributions from Ken Stockton, including pieces such as “Joy in the Journey” and “Rocks and Rills,” along with “Sunset at San Ysidro” by Wilson Hurley. These artworks resonate with the dramatic vistas of the American West.
Unique Elements
The baptismal font railing is particularly noteworthy, featuring an intertwining geometric motif reminiscent of the two rivers that converge at Grand Junction, with accents from the local claret cup blossom. The millwork is crafted from African sapele hardwood, subtly nodding to the region’s orchards through a peach blossom design.
A Symbol of Growth
The Grand Junction Colorado Temple is part of a larger movement within the church, representing one of the first 100 temples announced since President Russell M. Nelson’s service began. After its dedication, it emerged as the westernmost temple in Colorado, situated less than 30 miles from the Utah border.
As one of the significant advancements in the church’s outreach and accessibility, the temple embodies the dedication and faith of the Latter-day Saints in the area. With a public open house scheduled from September 11 to September 27, 2025, the Grand Junction Temple stands not only as a remarkable House of the Lord but also as a testament to the vibrant faith community in Colorado.
A Historical First
This temple also marks a historical moment as the first House of the Lord dedicated by President Jeffrey R. Holland, adding to its significance within the local and broader church context.
In summary, the Grand Junction Colorado Temple is not just a House of the Lord but a symbol of faith, dedication, and the rich heritage of the community it serves.