The Mesa Arizona Temple is quite a remarkable place with a rich history! It was announced on October 3, 2019, but its story goes back even further. The site was dedicated way back on November 28, 1921, by Heber J Grant. Just a few months later, on April 25, 1922, the groundbreaking took place, also by President Grant. The dedication ceremony was celebrated from October 23 to 26, 1927, and there was an open house for the community from March 19 to April 3, 1975. Fast forward a bit, and the temple was rededicated on April 1516, 1975, by Spencer W. Kimball, and then again on December 12, 2021, by Dallin H. Oaks after a lovely public open house from October 16 to November 20, 2021.
This beautiful temple features a unique flat roof with gorgeous sculpted friezes, four instruction rooms, six ceiling rooms, and a baptistery. It encompasses about 75,000 square feet and stands at 53 feet tall, situated at an elevation of 1,240 feet on 20 acres of land. Its exterior is made of durable concrete reinforced with 130 tons of steel and is beautifully faced with glazed, eggshellcolored terra cotta tiles.
Located just east of the original Mesa Townsite, which was settled by pioneers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, the Mesa Arizona Temple is part of a historic district that maintains its charming, residential feel. A public visitors’ center is located on the neatly manicured grounds, which also include a delightful cactus garden and serene reflection pools. Each Easter, thousands gather for “Jesus the Christ,” the largest outdoor Easter pageant, and during the Christmas season, the grounds are transformed into a stunning Nativity display adorned with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights.
Additionally, the Mesa Arizona Temple holds the distinction of being the first temple built in Arizona and the first to present the endowment in a language other than English. Originally named the Arizona Temple, it was also the first to reopen to the public for an open house before its rededication.
The temple has seen significant changes over the years, including a transformative renovation starting in 2018, where new roofing, drainage systems, and interior upgrades were made to preserve its historical character. The beautiful murals were also augmented and restored, ensuring that the temple remains a cherished place of worship and community gathering. It’s such a special landmark that reflects both history and the vibrant community around it!