The Memphis Tennessee Temple is a beautiful and welcoming symbol of faith, celebrated as the 80th dedicated temple in operation. Its journey began on September 17, 1998, when the announcement excited many in the community. Just a few months later, on January 16, 1999, Elder Gordon T. Watts broke ground, officially marking the start of something special.
The temple opened its doors for a delightful public open house from April 8 to 15, 2000, allowing everyone to explore and appreciate its beauty before the official dedication on April 23, 2000, led by Elder James E. Faust. In 2019, the temple once again embraced the community with an open house from April 13 to 20, culminating in a joyful rededication ceremony on May 5, 2019, with Elder Jeffrey R. Holland presiding.
Sitting on a charming 6.35-acre site, the Memphis Tennessee Temple features an inviting exterior of beige limestone that adds to its allure. One of its standout features is the graceful spire topped with a shiny gold leaf angel Moroni, creating a striking image against the sky. Inside, you’ll find two instruction rooms, two celestial rooms, and a baptistery, all designed to provide a warm and comforting space for all who visit.
At a height of 83’9″ and located at an elevation of 323 feet, the temple is situated at 4199 Kirby-Whitten Parkway in Bartlett. It shares its parking lot with a chapel that serves the Tennessee North stake, making it a hub for community gatherings and spiritual connection.
As the first temple built in Tennessee, it holds a special place in the hearts of local members. After a thorough renovation starting on September 29, 2017, the temple was refreshed and improved, elevating the steeple by 10 feet to enhance its visibility and beauty even further.
Step inside, and you’ll experience a lovely atmosphere filled with thoughtful design elements. The gold leaf pinstriping in the instruction, celestial, and sealing rooms adds a touch of elegance, while the vibrant art glass featuring infinity bell flowers and lazy eight motifs creates a warm and inviting environment. Throughout the temple, you’ll find charming antiqued bronze pendant lights that brighten the space, and a stunning neoclassic crystal and brass chandelier that adds a lovely glow to the celestial and sealing rooms.
The entry, baptistry, and brides’ room are adorned with beautiful Daphne white stone tile from Sorrento, Florida, adding a refreshing touch to the interiors. Plus, the rugs featuring a pawpaw flower field pattern and lazy eight borders in gentle greens, blues, and creams contribute to an overall welcoming and cozy feeling.
In a nutshell, the Memphis Tennessee Temple is more than just a beautiful building—it’s a heartfelt community sanctuary where everyone can come together in worship, connection, and spiritual growth. It truly embodies the dedication, love, and faith of all who enter.