Discovering the Nashville Tennessee Temple
The Nashville Tennessee Temple stands as the 84th dedicated Temple in operation, known for its stunning architectural features and serene grounds. Nestled at 344 Ernest Rice Ln, Franklin, Tennessee 37069, it is located just 15 miles south of the busy Nashville city center. This Temple is situated next to the Franklin Tennessee Stake Center, further enhancing its significance within the local vicinity.
I love every temple, but today I’m especially grateful for the Nashville, Tennessee temple
The journey to establish the Nashville Tennessee Temple began on November 9, 1994, when the Prophet Howard W. Hunter announced its construction. The groundbreaking and site dedication occurred on March 13, 1999. Despite inclement weather and heavy rains, approximately 1,500 members from central Tennessee and southern Kentucky gathered for this momentous occasion. Elder John K. Carmack, president of the North America East Area, drew an inspiring parallel between the site acquisition challenges and Jacob’s patience in the Old Testament.
Features of the Temple
Built on 6.86 acres, the Nashville Tennessee Temple features an elegant exterior made of imperial danby white marble. The architectural design includes a single attached end spire topped with a Gold-leafed Angel Moroni Statue. With a height of 22 meters and an overall area of 10,700 square feet, this single-story Temple contains two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry, providing essential spaces for various functions held within.
An Historical Opening
The public open house ran from May 6 to May 13, 2000, drawing in a total of 24,300 individuals who experienced the beauty of the Temple firsthand. Just days later, on May 21, 2000, the Temple was dedicated by Apostle James E. Faust in four sessions, attracting 6,052 attendees—a testimony to the excitement surrounding this new addition to the area.
Context within Tennessee
This Temple is significant not only for Nashville but for Tennessee as a whole, being the second to be constructed in the state, following the Memphis Tennessee Temple. Interestingly, both Temples were being built simultaneously, with the Nashville Temple positioned as a regional site aimed at serving a wide area, particularly the Upper South.
Historical Developments
The original plans for the Nashville Tennessee Temple included a site at the northeast corner of Hillsboro Pike and Old Hickory Boulevard in Forest Hills, Tennessee. However, after efforts to rezone the land were unsuccessful, the Church shifted its focus to the current location. Finally, on April 25, 1998, revised plans for the Temple were announced, marking a new chapter in its establishment.
Dedicatory Prayer
During its dedication, a heartfelt prayer was offered, expressing the faith in eternal purposes and the belief in the immortality of the human soul. This prayer reflected the deep intentions behind the Temple and its future.
In closing, the Nashville Tennessee Temple represents not only a physical edifice but also a tribute to the faith and dedication of those who contributed to its creation. From its inception to its dedication, it has captured the hearts of many and continues to inspire all who learn about its history and architectural beauty.
Nashville, Tennessee Temple by LDS Temple News.