Dallas Texas Temple House of the Lord
The Dallas Texas Temple is a significant milestone, being the first temple built in Texas. It opened for public tours from September 7 to September 26, 1984, and was dedicated by the esteemed Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley from October 19 to October 24, 1984. Following its initial success, the temple was rededicated on March 5, 1989.
Spanning six acres, the temple boasts an elegant exterior finished with light-colored marble tiles, crowned by a magnificent gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue. Encompassing 44,207 square feet, it stands confidently at 95 feet tall and is positioned at an elevation of 617 feet. Its interior is thoughtfully designed with five instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry, catering to a variety of sacred purposes.
The announcement of the Dallas Texas Temple on April 1, 1981, generated tremendous anticipation and engagement in the community. This was further solidified by the groundbreaking and site dedication ceremony on January 22, 1983, also led by President Hinckley. With its six soaring spires rising above the lush residential area of northern Dallas, the temple’s striking architecture serves as a powerful symbol of its holy intent. The beautifully maintained grounds, adorned with trimmed hedges and vibrant flowers, enhance its sublime presence.
The groundbreaking ceremony attracted around 90 prominent figures, including Regional Representatives and stake presidents, marking a significant moment in the community’s history. During the subsequent 20-day public open house, close to 88,000 visitors eagerly explored the temple, demonstrating remarkable enthusiasm and support. President Hinckley declared that this temple holds unparalleled significance in Texas, surpassing all other structures in importance.
In 1987, the temple underwent a comprehensive remodeling, expanding its size by an additional 22,749 square feet. This upgrade included a new ordinance room, a cafeteria, expanded laundry facilities, and a relocated baptistry, all of which enhance its functionality. Further improvements to the grounds were completed in June 2006, adding features such as a cascading fountain and expansive flower beds, making the temple even more welcoming.
The announcement of the Dallas Texas Temple sparked excitement among local church members, leading to a surge in temple recommend interviews and a renewed commitment to temple activities. While it initially faced opposition from some local religious leaders, many reconsidered their views as the temple became a cherished part of the community.
At the groundbreaking, President Hinckley confidently stated the temple’s tremendous importance to Texas. This private event drew influential local leaders, and Elder Jacob de Jager, a member of the First Quorum of the Seventy, shared compelling personal testimonies about the transformational power of temple ordinances.
Throughout the construction of the temple, community members stepped up and responded enthusiastically to support the project. Hundreds volunteered for clean-up efforts, and numerous contributions flowed in, including significant donations, such as one widow who generously exceeded her initial pledge, emphasizing her commitment to building the local temple.
Among the 88,000 open house visitors, about 56 percent were nonmembers, invited by active church members eager to share their faith. This outreach led to heightened appreciation for the Church and resulted in several immediate baptisms shortly after their visits. The Dallas Texas Temple has firmly established itself as a crucial site for performing ordinance work for historically significant figures, reinforcing its vital role in the spiritual life of Texas.