The Monticello Utah Temple stands proudly as the 53rd dedicated temple in operation, a magnificent symbol of faith in the vibrant heart of Utah. Located at 365 N 200 W in Monticello, this stunning temple is situated on 1.33 acres and features an impressive exterior of Turkish off-white marble that radiates elegance.
Its architectural highlight is the single attached spire, prominently topped with a striking gold leaf statue of the angel Moroni. Originally adorned with a white statue, the Moroni was beautifully transformed after being struck by lightning, showcasing resilience and renewal with its gleaming gold replacement.
The journey to this architectural marvel began with its announcement on October 4, 1997, followed by a momentous groundbreaking ceremony led by Ben B. Banks on November 17 of that year. In an astonishing feat, the temple was constructed in just eight months—making it the fastest temple built in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The public was welcomed for a special open house from July 16 to 18, 1998, with its dedication following shortly after on July 26 and 27, officiated by the esteemed Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley.
The Monticello Utah Temple continued to shine in 2002 with another public open house from November 2 to 9, culminating in a rededication on November 17, presided over once again by Hinckley. Inside its 11,225 square feet of sacred space, worshippers can find two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistery, offering a serene environment for spiritual growth.
Elevated at 7,098 feet, the temple soars 66 feet into the sky, perfectly harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. It also shares a convenient parking lot with one of the local meeting houses, highlighting its central role in the community as a place of worship and gathering.
Envisioned by the late Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley as a smaller but impactful house of worship, the Monticello Utah Temple proudly holds its status as Utah’s 11th temple. More than just a building, it stands as a vibrant symbol of faith, uniting people from diverse backgrounds, and its remarkable history and significance make it a cherished landscape and spiritual cornerstone in the region.