LDS Temple News Manhattan New York Temple
The Manhattan New York Temple is a remarkable addition to New York City’s architectural landscape. Officially dedicated on June 13, 2004, by Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley, this Temple stands as the 119th dedicated temple in operation. Located at 125 Columbus Ave, Fourth Floor, New York, New York, the Temple occupies a key position near notable sites such as Lincoln Center and Central Park.
Key Features of the Manhattan New York Temple
Architectural Design
Spanning 20,630 square feet and rising to a height of 120 feet, the Manhattan New York Temple is built from an existing stake center within a six-story Church-owned building. The exterior is finished in Travertine and features a unique single attached end spire topped with a 10-foot Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue, which was placed atop the structure on October 9, 2004. The Temple is cleverly integrated into the urban environment, utilizing upper and lower floors to ensure soundproofing from the surrounding hustle and bustle of the city.
Interior Artwork and Design
The interior of the Temple showcases intricate art glass, with large panels emulating flowing water on the exterior and a prominent mural of Christ on the road to Emmaus gracing the foyer. The baptismal area features a mural depicting the waters of the Jordan River and includes murals of Hudson River Valley landscapes. Additionally, fourteen original paintings by artist Walter Rane, illustrating the Book of Mormon, are displayed in the meetinghouse located in the same building.
Access and Renovation Announcement
As of March 2, 2024, the Manhattan New York Temple is closed for extensive renovations expected to last approximately three years. During this time, Church members in the Temple district are encouraged to attend the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple or the Hartford Connecticut Temple. A public open house and dedication date will be announced as the renovations progress.
Historical Significance
The Temple was announced by Gordon B. Hinckley on August 7, 2002, with its groundbreaking taking place shortly thereafter on September 23, 2002. The construction process adapted an existing multi-purpose building that had originally been completed in 1976—a significant period of transformation for the area. A noteworthy feature of the Temple is its door handles shaped like the Statue of Liberty’s torch, which serve as a nod to the city’s iconic status.
Community Links and Contributions
The Manhattan New York Temple serves as the first Temple built in the bustling city and New York County. It is also the second Temple constructed in New York State, following the Palmyra New York Temple founded in 2000. The Temple’s cornerstone includes a time capsule filled with various New York memorabilia, emphasizing the connection between the Temple and the city’s rich history.
With its noteworthy architectural elements and significant history, the Manhattan New York Temple continues to be a place of inspiration and reflection as it undergoes renovations and prepares for future engagements with the public. As the Temple rests at an elevation of 80 feet and sits on .3 acres, it holds a prominent space amidst the iconic elements of Manhattan’s landscape.