Exploring the Lubbock Texas Temple
Lubbock Texas Temple stands as the 109th dedicated Temple in operation within its faith. Located at 7016 Frankford Ave, Lubbock, Texas 79424, this Temple has been a significant addition to the area since its announcement on April 2, 2000, during General Conference.
LDS Temple News Presents Lubbock Texas Temple a House of the Lord
The groundbreaking and site dedication for the Lubbock Texas Temple occurred on November 4, 2000, presided over by Rex D. Pinegar. In his remarks, he expressed the sentiment of home and connection, stating, “A family gathers to see and be part of the beginning of the family home because it will be a place where they can come to experience the love, receive the counsel, and feel the belonging feelings of their earthly family.” He emphasized the importance of the Temple as a place where one can feel the love and receive blessings.
Following the construction phase, a public open house was held from March 23 to March 30, 2002, allowing the public to explore the sacred spaces before the dedication. The Lubbock Texas Temple was officially dedicated on April 21, 2002, by the Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley, who stated, “This house is to be a house of prayer. It is to be a house of God.”
Architectural Features and Design
Covering 2.7 acres, the Lubbock Texas Temple exhibits an exterior finish of Empress white and majestic gray granite quarried in China. The architectural design includes a single attached end spire topped with a gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue, a defining feature of many temples.
Interior and Exterior Details
Inside the Temple, there are two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry, all within its 16,498-square-foot space. The first Temple built in Lubbock and the first in Lubbock County, it is also the third Temple constructed in Texas, following the Dallas Texas Temple (1984) and the Houston Texas Temple (2000).
- Artistic Elements: The Temple’s tall arched windows boast elegant stained glass, featuring rays of light extending outward from a central sun, which captures sunlight beautifully against the light-colored granite exterior.
- Interior Art: The indoor artwork consists of original oil paintings and watercolor-style prints illustrating scenes from the life of Christ and the surrounding West Texas landscape. Many pieces incorporate local flora, such as the bluebonnet, all set against serene pastel skies.
Light Fixtures and Doors
The interior light fixtures are exemplified by elegant crystal chandeliers and sconces, crafted from a mixture of crystal, bronze, and acrylic elements. The interior doors are predominantly made from light-colored wood, adorned with hand-carved floral motifs, while the exterior entrance doors feature rich, heavy dark wood with polished brass hardware, echoing the Temple’s elegant design.
Conclusion
The Lubbock Texas Temple not only enriches the landscape of Lubbock but also serves as a vital spiritual center for many. With its stunning architecture, artistic embellishments, and historical significance, it stands as a testament to the faith and community it serves.