Discovering the Medford Oregon Temple
The Medford Oregon Temple is a significant addition to the landscape of Central Point, Oregon. Officially recognized as the 79th dedicated Temple in operation, this sacred place serves various purposes for its members.
LDS Temple News Presents the House of the Lord Medford Oregon Temple
The story of the Medford Oregon Temple began with an announcement made on March 15, 1999, by the Prophet during the General Conference. This event marked the beginning of an exciting journey for the local members and their aspirations for a dedicated space.
Groundbreaking and site dedication occurred shortly after on May 20, 1999, under the oversight of D. Lee Tobler. The excitement peaked during the public open house, which took place from March 24 to March 29, 1999. This open house attracted 46,000 attendees, significantly surpassing the original expectations by 16,000 visitors.
The Temple’s dedication occurred on April 16, 2000, led by Apostle James E. Faust, further solidifying its importance to the area.
Architectural Features
The Medford Oregon Temple stands out not only for its spiritual significance but also for its design. Covering an impressive 10,700 square feet and situated on 2 acres of land at an elevation of 1,272 feet, the single-story Temple features a stunning architectural design that emphasizes its unique character.
The exterior is finished with gray granite sourced from Mount Airy, North Carolina. One of its most notable features is the single attached end spire adorned with a gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue, which adds a striking element to the skyline. Inside, the Temple hosts two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry, all designed to facilitate various engagements.
Location and Impact
Located at 3900 Grant Rd, Central Point, Oregon 97502, this Temple holds the distinction of being the first built in Central Point and the first in Jackson County. Additionally, it is the second Temple built in the state of Oregon following the Portland Oregon Temple, which was completed in 1989.
Local Involvement
The construction of the Medford Oregon Temple involved local talent, as both the general contractor and job superintendent were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This local engagement further emphasizes the connection between the Temple and its surrounding area.
Conclusion
The Medford Oregon Temple serves as a vital point of connection for its members and stands as a beautiful testament to faith and dedication. Its design, history, and contributions to the local community make it a notable aspect of life in Central Point.