Discovering the Meridian Idaho Temple
The Meridian Idaho Temple stands as the 158th dedicated Temple in operation, located at 7355 N Linder Rd, Meridian, Idaho 83646. This beautifully designed building serves as a significant site for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Meridian Idaho Temple LDS Temple News
The announcement of the Meridian Idaho Temple took place on April 2, 2011, during the 181st General Conference, delivered by Prophet Thomas S. Monson. This moment came at a time when Meridian was experiencing remarkable growth, with a 115 percent population increase from 2000 to 2010. This rapid development prompted the organization of three additional stakes within Meridian and four more in surrounding areas such as Nampa, Kuna, and Middleton.
The groundbreaking for the building occurred on August 23, 2014, led by Apostle David A. Bednar. Alongside him were notable civic leaders, including Meridian Mayor Tammy deWeerd and Ada County Commissioner Dave Cases. Elder Bednar emphasized the importance of gratitude, saying, “Let your gratitude continue long beyond this day, beyond the day of dedication, into the years when this Temple will be a beacon and a light of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Impactful Moments
The public open house was held from October 21 to November 11, 2017, welcoming over 200,000 attendees. The dedication followed on November 19, 2017, with Apostle Dieter F. Uchtdorf leading the dedicatory prayer. His heartfelt words included a request for blessings upon all who would attend the Temple, reinforcing the deep commitment to the space.
Architectural Features
The Meridian Idaho Temple is constructed over 15.73 acres and features a distinctly modern classical design. Its exterior finish made of precast concrete showcases a single attached central tower topped with an angel Moroni statue. The architectural layout comprises three stories, totaling 67,331 square feet and reaching a height of 120.2 feet.
A Closer Look at Design
The building’s exterior art glass incorporates geometric and Art Deco-inspired patterns that highlight blossoming lily-like flowers. These designs symbolize growth through seed elements evolving into ascending stems. Notably, the syringa, Idaho’s state flower, is prominently featured in both the interior and exterior art.
The interior boasts multi-tiered crystal and bronze chandeliers hanging in stunning spaces like the Celestial Room, providing a warm, amber glow that enhances the marble decor throughout. Doors made of durable Sapele African mahogany complement the building’s elegant aesthetic, accented by decorative metal hardware that honors Idaho’s native flora.
Scenic Grounds
The Temple’s surroundings are beautifully landscaped, featuring scenic walkways, ponds, trees, and shrubbery that create a serene atmosphere. A remarkable cupola cap made from titanium surfacing gleams in various colors, depending on the sun’s position.
Notable Milestones
The angel Moroni statue, measuring 13 feet 6 inches, was placed atop the Temple on July 20, 2016, using a crane. This significant event marked an important step toward its dedication. The Meridian Idaho Temple holds the distinction of being the first temple in Meridian and the fifth in the state, following earlier temples in Idaho Falls, Boise, Rexburg, and Twin Falls.
Interestingly, the Meridian Idaho Temple is located only 8.8 miles from the Boise Idaho Temple, marking the shortest distance between two temples outside of Utah when the Meridian Temple was dedicated. Both temples were dedicated by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, who also led the dedication of the Tucson Arizona Temple just three months prior.
A Joyous Cultural Celebration
To commemorate the Temple’s dedication, nearly 6,000 youth from 16 stakes participated in a musical cultural celebration entitled “Be Strong, Steadfast, and Immovable” on November 18, 2017, at Taco Bell Arena, Boise State University. President Uchtdorf praised the young attendees, highlighting their vital role as the future of the area and expressing the deep treasures they represent to their families and communities.
The Meridian Idaho Temple stands as a vital and cherished addition to both the city and the state, reflecting a rich history and a promising future for its members.