Exploring the Los Angeles California Temple
The Los Angeles California Temple stands as a significant site for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Officially announced on March 6, 1937, it became the 10th dedicated Temple for the Church. A historical timeline surrounds its establishment, shaped by the events of World War II and the dedication of notable figures.
Los Angeles California Temple LDS Temple News
The construction of the Los Angeles California Temple faced delays due to World War II, providing additional time to refine its layout. This resulted in the ability to accommodate an extra 300 patrons in each session. The groundbreaking and site dedication occurred on September 22, 1951, led by President David McKay. In his remarks, he described the event as one of the most memorable Temple dedicatory services in the Church’s history.
Public Open House and Dedication
A tremendous public open house took place from December 19, 1955, to February 18, 1956, drawing an impressive attendance of over 632,361 people. Following this event, President McKay dedicated the Temple over several days, from March 11 to 14, 1956.
Architectural Highlights
Covering 13 acres, the Los Angeles California Temple spans 146,000 square feet. The exterior features Mo-Sai stone facing, made of crushed quartz and white Portland cement sourced from Utah and Nevada. Adding resilience against vandalism, the exterior wainscot is made of Rockville granite from Minnesota. A striking element of the design is the single attached end spire topped by a gold-leafed Angel Moroni statue, which is 15.5 feet tall and crafted by Millard Mallin.
Its remarkable attributes include:
- It stands at a height of 257 feet and sits at an elevation of 289 feet.
- The Temple is equipped with four instruction rooms, ten sealing rooms, and one baptistry, totaling 190,614 square feet.
- Among its features, it is one of five temples where the Angel Moroni holds gold plates.
Landscape and Features
Situated on Santa Monica Boulevard in Westwood, the Temple’s grounds are beautifully landscaped with a variety of trees, including Canary Island pine, palm, and rare Chinese ginkgo. Two fountains and a large reflection pool enhance the serenity of the environment. The grounds are also home to various family-themed statues and a family history center.
Seasonal Decor
Every December, the Temple grounds come alive with thousands of Christmas lights, creating an inviting and festive atmosphere.
Interior Decor and Renovations
Inside the Temple, a priesthood assembly room can accommodate 2,000 individuals, featuring three pulpits on each end. It was among the early sites to present various elements through live action, making it the last Temple designed for this approach. Beautiful hand-painted murals adorn the walls of its unique progressive-style ordinance rooms, including the Creation Room, Garden Room, World Room, Terrestrial Room, and Celestial Room.
The Los Angeles California Temple has undergone significant renovations over the years, including a 10-week closure in 1981 for remodeling, which introduced audiovisual equipment to modernize presentations. Reverted back to a progressive-style format in 2003, the Temple underwent seismic overhauls and renovations in 2005, culminating in its reopening on July 11, 2006—exactly 50 years after its dedication.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles California Temple stands as a testament to the faith and devotion of its members. With its rich history, striking architecture, and thoughtfully designed landscape, it serves as an enduring presence in the city of Los Angeles and the broader community.