Manhattan New York Temple Temple News
The Manhattan New York Temple is a noteworthy addition to the skyline of one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Located at 125 Columbus Ave, Fourth Floor, the Temple occupies a prime spot at the intersection of West 65th Street, Broadway, and Columbus Avenue. Situated near well-known destinations like Lincoln Center and Central Park, it serves as the 119th dedicated Temple in operation.
Renovation and Accessibility
The Manhattan New York Temple closed on Saturday, March 2, 2024, for extensive renovations anticipated to last approximately three years. During this period, Church members in the surrounding area are encouraged to attend the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple or the Hartford Connecticut Temple. As the renovation progresses, dates for a public open house and rededication will be announced.
Historical Milestones
The Temple was announced to the public on August 7, 2002, by the Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley. Subsequently, groundbreaking and site dedication took place on September 23, 2002. Construction began after demolition of the upper and lower floors of the existing building on September 2, 2002. A public open house was conducted from May 8 to June 5, 2004, attracting around 53,000 attendees. The Temple was officially dedicated on June 13, 2004, with a significant address by Prophet Hinckley, emphasizing the need for peace and love amid worldly conflicts.
Architectural Highlights
The Manhattan New York Temple is constructed on 0.3 acres and covers an area of 20,630 square feet, reaching a height of 120 feet. Its exterior is finished with Travertine, showcasing a single attached end spire crowned with a 10-foot tall, gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue. The artistic details extend throughout the building, with door handles shaped like the Statue of Liberty’s torch and unique light fixtures, including backlit synthetic Venetian art glass windows.
Artistic Elements
The interior features a variety of artistic installations, including:
- A prominent foyer mural of Christ on the road to Emmaus.
- Olive branch motifs that enhance the overall ambiance.
- A baptistry mural that illustrates the Jordan River flowing toward the font.
- Hudson River Valley landscape murals in the first endowment room, reflecting the region’s natural beauty.
Moreover, fourteen original paintings by artist Walter Rane, which illustrate the Book of Mormon, are displayed in the meetinghouse located within the same building.
Construction and Dual Purpose
This remarkable Temple was built from an existing stake center within a Church-owned six-story building. The innovative design allowed the Temple to be a soundproofed space, separate from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it a unique architectural endeavor. The original building was completed in 1976, during a time of significant transformation in its urban environment. The Manhattan New York Temple stands as the first Temple built in New York County and the second in the state, following the Palmyra New York Temple, which was completed in 2000.
Overall, the Manhattan New York Temple not only enriches the spiritual landscape of the city but also serves as a beautiful example of modern architectural ingenuity. Through its various artistic features and dedicated spaces, it continues to inspire and uplift those who encounter it.