Nauvoo Illinois Temple House of the Lord.
The Nauvoo Illinois Temple, officially opened on June 27, 2002, stands as a significant landmark in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This sacred House of the Lord is the 113th temple in operation and is situated at 50 N Wells St, Nauvoo, Illinois 62354.
Historical Background
The temple has a rich history, with its announcement made on April 4, 1999. The groundbreaking and dedication of the location took place on October 24, 1999, presided over by then-Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley. This House of the Lord is a reproduction of the original Nauvoo Temple that was constructed by early settlers in the 1840s. Unfortunately, the original temple was destroyed by fire in 1848 and later by a tornado in 1850.
Design and Features
Covering 3.3 acres, the Nauvoo Illinois Temple boasts an impressive 54,000 square feet of interior space. Its exterior is adorned with limestone blocks that were quarried in Russellville, Alabama, lending a distinctive look to the structure. A notable feature is the single attached end tower topped by a gold leafed statue of the Angel Moroni. Unlike many other temples, this temple faces west, overlooking the majestic Mississippi River.
Interior Highlights
Inside, the temple includes:
- Four instruction rooms
- Six sealing rooms
- The largest baptismal font within the church
- Beautifully hand-painted murals that grace the walls of the progressive-style ordinance rooms: Creation Room, Garden Room, and World Room.
Structure Layout
Each floor serves a specific purpose:
- The basement contains the baptistry and laundry facilities.
- The first floor houses the foyer, recommend desk, and assembly room, divided into two rooms.
- The second floor is dedicated to patron dressing rooms and administrative offices.
- The third floor features a waiting chapel, four instruction rooms, celestial rooms, and four sealing rooms.
- The fourth floor includes dressing rooms for ordinance workers and waiting areas, and the fifth floor accommodates two additional sealing rooms.
The Surrounding Area
The grounds of this House of the Lord include a statue depicting Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum Smith on horseback, a tribute to their influential roles in the church’s history. Just north of the temple is the Temple Arrival Center, designed for families and individuals to prepare before entering the House of the Lord. This center also includes a film area dedicated to church-approved presentations.
The Nauvoo Illinois Temple is the second temple built in Illinois, following the Chicago Illinois Temple. The dedication of the Nauvoo Temple occurred on the very day and hour that coincided with the anniversary of the martyrdom of the Prophet Joseph Smith, adding to its profound significance.
Conclusion
The Nauvoo Illinois Temple stands as a testament to the dedication and heritage of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Its historical roots, architectural beauty, and ongoing functions make it an essential part of not only the church’s history but also the broader narrative of the Nauvoo area.