During the Sunday Afternoon Session of the October 2021 General Conference, the late Prophet Russell M. Nelson announced that the Provo Utah Temple will undergo demolition and reconstruction after the Orem Utah Temple’s dedication. The current temple will close on Saturday, February 24, 2024, ending its ordinance work and allowing for a new facility. Members in the area are encouraged to use nearby temples for their sacred ordinances during this transition.
The new temple, named the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple, will be located on Provo’s east bench at the mouth of Rock Canyon, surrounded by mountains. Its grounds will feature a cascading water feature, flowers, shrubs, and trees, celebrating the region’s natural beauty. Close by is the Provo Missionary Training Center, where many young missionaries prepare for service.
The temple will cover approximately 163,000 square feet on a 17-acre site and include six instruction rooms, ten sealing rooms, and two baptistries, designed to accommodate temple patrons comfortably. It will be renamed on February 20, 2024, and the original structure will officially close and be demolished on February 24, 2024. Construction of the new temple is expected to be completed by late 2027, featuring traditional yet contemporary architecture with elegant arched windows and a striking tower topped with a golden spire, differing from the original design.
The Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple will meet current seismic codes for safety and include energy-efficient systems, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Notable design elements include three grand white arches at the main entrance and modern construction materials, with sheathing boards being installed and waterproofing underway. Unlike its predecessor, the new temple will not have the Angel Moroni statue on its spire.
The 17-acre grounds will blend hardscaping with natural elements, featuring landscaped gardens with native, drought-tolerant plants to support sustainability. The design will include picturesque water features, enhancing the serene ambiance and providing a peaceful retreat for visitors. Symmetrical walkways and manicured garden terraces will enhance the spiritual experience for all who enter.
As the Provo Utah Rock Canyon Temple develops, it will serve as a house of worship and a sanctuary reflecting its surroundings’ beauty and the values of its visitors, highlighting modern design, sustainability, and spiritual significance.