Get ready to be amazed by the beautiful Grand Junction Colorado Temple, an architectural gem that sits on 7.93 acres and stands tall at 118 feet! With its striking single spire, this Temple is truly a sight to see, especially set against the stunning Colorado backdrop at an elevation of 4,962 feet.
The excitement all started on April 4, 2021, when Prophet Russell M. Nelson shared the plans for this Temple during the 191st Annual General Conference. It was a moment of joy for the Latter-day Saints community, with roots in Colorado dating back to 1896. With over 150,000 members and around 310 congregations, the buzz for this Temple has been incredible. As the third Temple in the state, it’s sure to become a cherished spiritual home for many!
The Temple is beautifully located on a scenic 6.94-acre site at the lively intersection of Horizon Drive and North 12th Street, just a quick hop from Interstate 70. When the official exterior rendering was revealed on September 17, 2021, it sparked excitement and wonder about what was to come.
On a sunny day, April 16, 2022, Elder Chi Hong (Sam) Wong of the Quorum of the Seventy led the groundbreaking ceremony, marking the start of this amazing new journey. Spanning 29,630 square feet, the Temple is designed to be a beautiful blend of regional charm and spiritual significance. Elder Wong’s dedicatory prayer, offered the day before Easter Sunday, beautifully expressed gratitude for the Atonement of Jesus Christ, dedicating this sacred space for future generations.
Mark your calendars for an exciting media day on September 8, 2025! This kicks off two days of special tours for invited guests, followed by open public tours from September 11 to 27! The grand dedication on October 19, 2025, led by President Jeffrey R. Holland, will be shared with all temple district units, bringing the community together in a joyful celebration.
As you step inside this stunning Temple, you’ll see designs that celebrate the gorgeous natural beauty of western Colorado. With elements inspired by the charming claret cup cactus and local flowers like Indian paintbrush and cliffrose, the Temple beautifully blends nature with spirituality. Its striking steel and concrete structure, finished with warm Portuguese Pedras Salgadas granite, adds to the inviting atmosphere.
Inside, you’ll find custom-designed carpets from Bentley Mills that feature warm colors and patterns inspired by the lovely local landscape. The bright and cheerful interior palette, filled with crimson, amber, green, and pale pink, reflects the beauty of the claret cup cactus and other flora. Elegant Mineo marble floors complement the vibrant accents to create a warm, welcoming space reminiscent of southwestern canyons.
Take a look at the solid wood doors adorned with beautiful peach blossom designs and lovely antique brass hardware. Crystal chandeliers light up the sacred bride’s room, celestial room, and sealing rooms, filling the spaces with a sense of divine elegance.
Everywhere you look, you’ll notice the gorgeous woodwork made from African sapele hardwood, celebrating the region’s fruitful orchards. The baptismal font railing features a stunning geometric design inspired by the intertwining rivers of Grand Junction, decorated with lovely claret cup blossoms.
And don’t miss the captivating art glass! It combines the vibrant crimson of the claret cup with shades of amber, green, and pale pink, telling a beautiful story of the local plants. Inside, you’ll also find incredible artwork by Ken Stockton and Wilson Hurley, capturing the magnificent beauty of the American West.
The Grand Junction Colorado Temple isn’t just a building; it’s a heartwarming journey that connects faith, community, and the incredible beauty of Colorado’s high desert landscape. You won’t want to miss the chance to experience this wonderful spiritual Temple!