The Ogden Utah Temple is a wonderful gem and the 14th dedicated temple in operation! Its journey began on August 24, 1967, when the plans were first announced, filling the community with excitement. The site dedication happened on September 8, 1969, led by Joseph Fielding Smith and Alvin R. Dyer, and it was a day filled with hope and promise. That same day, Hugh B. Brown conducted the groundbreaking, making it an important moment in the temple’s history.
One of the most thrilling events was the first public open house from December 16-30, 1971, where an amazing 181,000 guests came to explore the temple and share in its beauty and spirit. The official dedication followed, taking place from January 18-20, 1972, with Joseph Fielding Smith presiding, marking its establishment in the hearts of many.
Fast forward to the second open house from August 1 through September 6, 2014, which gave everyone another chance to connect with this beautiful space. The temple was rededicated on September 21, 2014, by Prophet Thomas S. Monson, reminding us all of its ongoing importance in the community.
Located on 9.96 acres in downtown Ogden, the temple’s stunning exterior is made from gorgeous granite quarried and fabricated in China. The architecture is captivating, featuring a single central spire topped with a lovely gold-leafed angel Moroni statue. Inside, you can find six instruction rooms, nine sealing rooms, and one baptistry, all within a spacious 112,232 square feet that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Standing tall at 188 feet and 8 inches and perched at an elevation of 4,299 feet, the temple enhances the landscape with its lovely water features, beautiful trees, and perfectly maintained gardens, making it a perfect spot for peaceful reflection.
The Ogden Utah Temple is particularly special as it was the fifth temple built in Utah and the very first dedicated in the state—80 years after the previous four temples were consecrated back when Utah was still a territory. A touching moment in its dedication history came when Prophet Harold B. Lee stepped in to finish the dedicatory prayer after Prophet Joseph Fielding Smith became a bit too weak to continue.