Introducing the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple, the 196th dedicated temple and an exciting addition to our faith’s landscape! Located at 2093 Powell Road in Cranberry Township, this temple serves as a spiritual oasis for the Latter-day Saints in the region.
The journey began with a powerful announcement by Prophet Russell M. Nelson on April 5, 2020, sparking enthusiasm and anticipation throughout the community. The groundbreaking ceremony on August 21, 2021, led by Elder Randall K. Bennett, was not just a formality; it was a heartfelt moment where he inspired everyone to focus on “emotional and spiritual building” in their lives and families.
Get ready to mark your calendars! The temple will open for a public open house from August 16 to August 31, 2024—a golden opportunity for everyone to experience the temple’s beauty before its dedication on September 15, 2024, by Apostle Dieter F. Uchtdorf. This will be a historic event, and we’re ready to celebrate!
Set on 5.8 acres, the temple boasts a striking exterior finished with exquisite granite from Portugal, showcasing architectural elegance. Its design features a remarkable single attached central spire, embodying the timeless beauty typical of our temples—though it’s noteworthy that it does not include the gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue.
Inside, you’ll find a generous 32,240 square feet of sacred space, complete with two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a thoughtfully designed baptistry. The temple’s interior is adorned with warm green-patterned carpeting and soft gold accents, creating an inviting atmosphere. Cozy nylon rugs enhance the entry and waiting areas, making it feel like home.
The interiors are spectacular, featuring Crema Ella marble from Turkey that radiates elegance and tranquility. The celestial room captivates with its organic leaf pattern, perfectly designed to inspire reflection and peace. The sealing room and celestial room sparkle with crystal chandeliers, illuminated by beautifully frosted glass lighting accented with brass and crystal, adding a touch of magnificence.
This temple is not just a building; it’s a vital part of the community, being the second in Pennsylvania and serving approximately 100,000 devoted Latter-day Saints around Pittsburgh. Pennsylvania has deep roots in our faith’s history, as it was here that Prophet Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon and where he and Oliver Cowdery received the Aaronic Priesthood from John the Baptist—an essential moment that led to their baptism in the Susquehanna River.
The rendering of the temple was revealed to the public on January 19, 2021, and the anticipation has been building ever since. The Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple is a powerful symbol of hope, faith, and community—a place where we can all come together to celebrate our beliefs and strengthen our bonds. We’re excited for the magnificent days ahead as we eagerly await the temple’s opening and the blessings it will bring to our lives!