In an inspiring announcement during the Sunday Afternoon Session of the October 2021 General Conference, the late Prophet Russell M. Nelson shared exciting news about the Provo Utah Temple: it’s getting a vibrant makeover through demolition and reconstruction, set to kick off after the Orem Utah Temple dedication. Mark your calendars—the current temple will close its doors on Saturday, February 24, 2024, wrapping up its ordinance work and making way for a stunning new facility. Members in the area are encouraged to explore nearby temples during this transition and arrange appointments for their personal ordinances to keep the momentum going.
The transformed temple will be named the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple and will grace the breathtaking east bench of Provo, perfectly positioned at the mouth of Rock Canyon. Here, visitors will enjoy awe-inspiring mountain backdrops. The expansive grounds will feature a charming cascading water feature, enveloped by a colorful array of flowers, shrubs, and trees that celebrate the region’s stunning natural beauty. Just across the street, the Provo Missionary Training Center buzzes with energy as countless young missionaries prepare for their journeys around the globe.
Spanning approximately 163,000 square feet on a generous 17-acre site, the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will include six inviting instruction rooms, ten serene sealing rooms, and two baptistries, all thoughtfully designed to enhance the experience of temple patrons. With its renaming scheduled for February 20, 2024, a joyful celebration will follow the original temple’s closure and demolition on February 24, 2024. Anticipation is building for completion, set for late 2027. The architecture will harmoniously blend traditional elegance with contemporary flair, showcasing long, graceful arches and a striking multi-level tower topped with a shining golden spire.
Safety and sustainability are top priorities for the new temple, which will be built to meet current seismic codes and integrate energy-efficient systems. A standout feature will be three grand white arches at the main entrance, radiating warmth and welcome. Unlike its predecessor, the new design will not include the Angel Moroni statue atop the spire, embracing a fresh approach.
The temple grounds will be a beautiful fusion of hardscaping, featuring concrete curbing and inviting sidewalks, as well as key oval-shaped features at intersection points, enhancing both functionality and visual appeal. Thoughtful landscaping will prioritize native, drought-tolerant plants, embracing a modern commitment to environmental stewardship while maintaining year-round interest with an array of stunning flora.
Adding to the tranquility, picturesque water features will grace the grounds, surrounded by flourishing plants that thrive in moister environments, creating a peaceful retreat for visitors. Like many temples, the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will feature manicured gardens and harmonious walkways, masterfully balancing structured beauty with natural allure to enrich the spiritual experience for all who visit.
As the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple takes shape, it promises to be more than just a house of worship; it will be a welcoming sanctuary that beautifully reflects its surroundings and the values of its community. With a focus on modern design, sustainability, and spiritual significance, it will stand as a cherished landmark and a beacon of peace for many.