The Mesa Arizona Temple is a remarkable and historic landmark in Arizona, with a story that spans over a century. Announced on October 3, 2019, it has its roots deeply embedded in the early 20th century, with the original site being dedicated on November 28, 1921, by Heber J. Grant. The groundbreaking occurred shortly after, on April 25, 1922, leading to the temple’s formal dedication from October 23 to 26, 1927—also by Grant.
This temple has not only stood the test of time but has continually evolved to meet the needs of its community. It closed in early 1974 for significant renovations, enhancing the Creation, Garden, and World Rooms for modern presentations of the endowment. Valuable burlap murals from its early days were preserved and restored, demonstrating a commitment to honoring the past while preparing for the future. Further expansions allowed for increased capacity, adding more dressing and sealing rooms to serve the growing number of patrons.
The most recent renovation kicked off on May 19, 2018, wrapping up in late 2021. This comprehensive update included modernizing mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems while preserving the temple’s historical character. With these renovations, the iconic murals were restored and the landscape improved, ensuring the temple’s exterior remains as stunning as ever.
In 1975, the temple was rededicated by Spencer W. Kimball, following the first-ever open house before a rededication, and it experienced another rededication on December 12, 2021, led by Dallin H. Oaks after a successful open house that took place from October 16 to November 20 that same year.
Architecturally, the Mesa Arizona Temple is a true masterpiece, featuring a flat roof adorned with sculpted friezes. Spanning 75,000 square feet, it encompasses four instruction rooms, six sealing rooms, and one baptistery. At 53 feet tall and situated at an elevation of 1,240 feet, the temple occupies a beautiful 20-acre site with a strong foundation of concrete reinforced by 130 tons of steel, elegantly faced with glazed, egg-shell colored terra cotta tiles.
The Mesa Arizona Temple is noteworthy for many reasons: it was 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 anchors a historic district that maintains its charming residential character. The temple grounds are complemented by a visitors’ center and feature an inviting cactus garden and large reflection pools.
Furthermore, it plays a pivotal role in community engagement, hosting annual events that attract thousands. Each Easter, the temple features the outdoor pageant “Jesus the Christ,” recognized as the largest of its kind globally. During the Christmas season, the temple grounds are adorned with a spectacular Nativity display and hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, making it a must-visit attraction.
In conclusion, the Mesa Arizona Temple stands not only as a house of worship but as a beacon of heritage and community spirit in Arizona. Its architectural beauty, rich history, and ongoing engagement with the public solidify its status as a vital landmark in the region.