The Mesa Arizona Temple is a significant landmark with a rich historical background and architectural beauty. Announced on October 3, 2019, it has roots that date back to the early 20th century, being dedicated on November 28, 1921, by Heber J. Grant. The groundbreaking occurred on April 25, 1922, and the temple was officially dedicated over several days from October 23 to 26, 1927, also by Heber J. Grant.
A notable aspect of the temple’s history is its rededication events. It was rededicated on April 1516, 1975, by Spencer W. Kimball and underwent another rededication on December 12, 2021, led by Dallin H. Oaks after a public open house that took place from October 16 to November 20, 2021.
Architecturally, the Mesa Arizona Temple features a flat roof adorned with sculpted friezes. It houses four instruction rooms, six sealing rooms, and one baptistery, covering a total area of 75,000 square feet. Standing at a height of 53 feet and situated at an elevation of 1,240 feet, it rests on a 20acre property. The exterior is constructed of concrete reinforced with 130 tons of steel and is faced with glazed, eggshell colored terra cotta tiles, giving it a distinctive and elegant appearance.
Located just east of the original Mesa Townsite, established by pioneers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, the temple anchors a historic district that largely retains its residential character. The temple grounds include a cactus garden and large reflection pools, providing a serene environment for visitors. Each Easter, thousands gather at the temple to attend “Jesus the Christ,” the largest annual outdoor Easter pageant in the world, while during the Christmas season, the grounds are transformed into a stunning Nativity display illuminated by hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights.
The Mesa Arizona Temple is notable for several historical firsts: it was the first temple built in Arizona, the first to present the endowment in a language other than English, and the first to reopen to the public for an open house prior to a rededication. Initially named the Arizona Temple, it provided the endowment through live acting, which was later updated to film presentations.
Throughout its history, the temple has undergone extensive renovations to maintain its beauty and functionality. It closed for remodeling in February 1974, which included updates to the presentation of the endowment. More recently, it closed on May 19, 2018, for a significant threeandahalfyear renovation that focused on modernizing systems while preserving its historical character. This included improvements to roofing, drainage, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, as well as the restoration of historic murals and grounds.
Overall, the Mesa Arizona Temple stands as a testament to faith, community, and architectural beauty, serving as both a place of worship and a cultural landmark within the community.