Welcome to the enchanting world of the Mesa Arizona Temple! This remarkable landmark has a story that spans nearly a century and is filled with fascinating details that make it truly special.
Did you know that the Mesa Arizona Temple’s journey began with its announcement on October 3, 2019? Before that, the temple was dedicated way back on November 28, 1921, by the inspiring Heber J. Grant. The first shovels hit the dirt for groundbreaking on April 25, 1922, leading up to the beautiful dedication that took place from October 23 to 26 in 1927, also by President Grant!
Fast forward to recent times, and you’ll discover a rededication that occurred on April 15 and 16, 1975, thanks to Spencer W. Kimball. And don’t forget the most recent public open house from October 16 to November 20, 2021, leading up to another touching rededication on December 12, 2021, conducted by Dallin H. Oaks.
One look at the architecture, and you’ll be captivated! The temple features a unique flat roof adorned with sculpted friezes that tell a story all their own. Inside, you’ll find four instruction rooms, six sealing rooms, and one welcoming baptistery, all nestled within 75,000 square feet of inspiring space. Standing at 53 feet tall and at an elevation of 1,240 feet, this temple is not just a sight to behold; it’s a true celebration of faith!
Situated on 20 acres, the temple is embraced by its beautiful surroundings, crafted from concrete reinforced with an impressive 130 tons of steel, and dressed in lovely eggshell colored terra cotta tiles that gleam in the Arizona sun. Just east of the original Mesa Townsite, which witnessed the pioneering spirit of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, this temple anchors a historic district that radiates charm.
The meticulously landscaped grounds feature a delightful cactus garden and large reflection pools that invite guests to pause and reflect. The Easter season is a particularly magical time, drawing thousands for the spectacular “Jesus the Christ,” the world’s largest annual outdoor Easter pageant. And during Christmas, the grounds transform into a breathtaking Nativity scene, twinkling with hundreds of thousands of lights!
The Mesa Arizona Temple is also a trailblazer in many ways. It was the first temple built in Arizona and made history as the first to present the endowment in a language other than English. Originally known as the Arizona Temple, it uniquely opened its doors for an open house before its rededication.
Over the decades, the temple has undergone notable renovations, modernizing while preserving its stateoftheart history. It closed for extensive remodeling in February 1974 and then again on May 19, 2018, for a threeandahalfyear renovation that infused new life while respecting its historic character. Beautiful renovations included updating roofing, mechanical systems, redesigning furniture, and preserving those stunning murals that tell the temple’s story.
With its deeprooted history, stunning architecture, and vibrant community engagement, the Mesa Arizona Temple continues to be a beloved gathering place and an inspiring landmark for both locals and visitors alike. It’s not just a temple; it’s a beacon of hope, faith, and connection!