Columbia River Washington Temple House of the Lord
Emmanuel Masters Murphy, baptized in Tennessee, is believed to be the first member of the Church in South Carolina. When the first missionary arrived in November 1839, he encountered eager individuals ready for baptism, thanks to the dedicated Murphys. Legend has it Murphy visited Joseph Smith shortly before Smith’ s martyrdom at Carthage Jail, where Smith shared a prophetic vision of an upcoming war in South Carolina and urged him to warn others.
The temple, located in a scenic area of Columbia, South Carolina’ s capital, is set in a lush, wooded neighborhood. Surrounded by well- maintained homes and welcoming churches, it is framed by native loblolly pines and oaks. Landscaping with crape myrtle, holly, mums, and dogwoods enhances the region’ s rich flora.
During the temple open house, Deputy Chief of Staff Michael LeFever, filling in for Hurricane Floyd- affected Governor James Hodges, expressed enthusiasm about visiting the temple and received a VIP tour. The governor also sent a personal letter praising church members’ efforts in constructing this notable temple.
That morning, the Wilcox family from Asheville received the sad news that their son Brad had died in a car accident the night before the scheduled dedication. Sister Wilcox chose to honor her commitment to sing at the dedication, supported by priesthood blessings for comfort. President Gordon B. Hinckley’ s uplifting words about the Plan of Salvation and temple teachings brought them peace.
The Columbia, South Carolina, Temple is the first in the state. Its groundbreaking occurred simultaneously with the Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico Temple, marking a historic day for the church.
During the ten- day open house, nearly 20, 000 visitors toured the temple inside. Announced on September 11, 1998, the temple covers 10, 700 square feet. Groundbreaking and site dedication took place on December 5, 1998, led by Gordon T. Watts. The open house ran from September 30 to October 9, 1999, and the temple was dedicated on October 16- 17, 1999, by Gordon B. Hinckley. Situated on 3. 3.6 acres, it features Vermont- quarried marble and a gold- leafed Angel Moroni statue atop a tall spire.
Inside, the temple includes two instruction rooms, sealing rooms, and a baptismal font, built reverently. Positioned at 307 feet elevation, the temple symbolizes hope and faith for visitors.