The Memphis Tennessee Temple is a wonderful testament to faith and community, proudly standing as the 80th dedicated temple in operation. Its journey began with excitement on September 17, 1998, when it was first announced, and on January 16, 1999, Elder Gordon T. Watts joyfully broke ground, marking the start of something truly special.
After its completion, the temple opened its doors to the public for a delightful open house from April 8 to 15, 2000. Guests were warmly welcomed to explore the beauty and spirit of the temple before its official dedication on April 23, 2000, led by Elder James E. Faust. Fast forward to 2019, and the community was once again invited in during another open house from April 13 to 20, which ended with a heartwarming rededication ceremony on May 5, 2019, presided over by Elder Jeffrey R. Holland.
Located on a beautifully landscaped 6.35 acres, the Memphis Tennessee Temple features a lovely exterior made of beige limestone, giving it a warm and inviting look. Its signature spire, topped with a gold leaf angel Moroni, adds a charming touch, making it a recognizable symbol in the area. Inside, you’ll find two instruction rooms, two celestial rooms, and a baptistery, all thoughtfully designed to create a peaceful atmosphere within its spacious 10,890 square feet.
Standing proudly at 83’9″ and nestled at an elevation of 323 feet, the temple sits at 4199 Kirby-Whitten Parkway in Bartlett. It’s great to note that it shares its parking lot with a chapel for the Tennessee North stake, which helps to strengthen community ties.
As Tennessee’s first temple, it holds a special place in the hearts of its members. In 2017, the temple underwent some exciting renovations that started on September 29. The upgrades focused on enhancing its beauty and usability, including raising the steeple by 10 feet to give it an even more striking presence.
Inside, the temple is a treasure trove of thoughtful design elements. You’ll find gorgeous gold leaf pinstriping in the instruction, celestial, and sealing rooms, paired with vibrant art glass featuring infinity bell flowers and lazy eight motifs—adding a delightful touch throughout. The antique bronze pendant lighting warmly illuminates the space, while a stunning neoclassic chandelier adds elegance to the celestial and sealing rooms.
As you walk through the entryway, baptistry, and brides’ room, you’ll appreciate the beautiful Daphne white stone tile from Sorrento, Florida, which adds a refined feel to the temple. Plus, the rugs sporting a pawpaw flower field pattern with lazy eight borders in lovely greens, blues, and creams enhance the cozy and inviting atmosphere in the entry, waiting room, and brides’ room.
In essence, the Memphis Tennessee Temple is much more than just a beautiful building; it’s a warm and welcoming sanctuary where faith and community thrive. It embodies the spirit of love and dedication from everyone who walks through its doors, making it a cherished place for all.