The Monticello Utah Temple is such a wonderful gem in the heart of Utah! As the 53rd dedicated temple in operation, it proudly sits at 365 N 200 W in Monticello, covering 1.33 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with a stunning exterior of Turkish off-white marble that sparkles in the sunshine.
One feature that really stands out is the charming single attached spire, topped with a lovely gold leaf statue of the angel Moroni. Fun fact: the original statue was white, but after a lightning strike, it was replaced with the shining gold version we see today!
The story of this beautiful temple began with its announcement on October 4, 1997, and it quickly gained momentum with the groundbreaking ceremony led by Ben B. Banks on November 17 of that same year. Remarkably, the temple was built in just eight months—making it the fastest temple constructed for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints! It opened its doors for a special public open house from July 16 to 18, 1998, and was dedicated soon after on July 26 and 27 by the beloved Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley.
In 2002, the Monticello Utah Temple welcomed visitors again for another open house from November 2 to 9, and it was rededicated on November 17, once again by Hinckley. Inside, the temple offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistery, all within its cozy 11,225 square feet.
Perched at an elevation of 7,098 feet, this beautiful temple reaches 66 feet into the sky, fitting seamlessly with the lovely surrounding landscape. It even shares a convenient parking lot with one of the local meeting houses, making it a welcoming spot for everyone in the community.
This temple was envisioned by the late Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley as a smaller yet impactful house of worship, and it’s proudly the 11th temple built in Utah. More than just a beautiful building, the Monticello Utah Temple truly serves as a delightful gathering place for people from all walks of life, celebrating faith, community, and togetherness. It’s a cherished landmark that tells a story of hope and connection, and we’re lucky to have it in our community!