The Kirtland Temple is one of the most significant buildings in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Kirtland, Ohio, it was the first temple built in this dispensation and the only temple completed during Joseph Smith's lifetime. Although it is no longer an operating temple where temple ordinances are performed, it remains a sacred historic site that welcomes visitors from around the world.
A Brief History
On December 27, 1832, the Lord commanded the Saints to build a "house of God" in Kirtland (Doctrine and Covenants 88). Construction began on June 5, 1833, and required enormous sacrifice from the early Saints, many of whom donated their time, money, and labor despite living in poverty.
The temple was dedicated on March 27, 1836, by the Prophet Joseph Smith. During the dedication and the days that followed, many witnessed remarkable spiritual manifestations, including visions, angels, speaking in tongues, and powerful outpourings of the Spirit. Just one week later, on April 3, 1836, the Savior, along with Moses, Elias, and Elijah, appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery in the temple, restoring priesthood keys that continue to bless the Church today. These events are recorded in Doctrine and Covenants 110.
After the Saints left Ohio, the building changed hands several times. For 144 years, it was carefully preserved by the Community of Christ. On March 5, 2024, ownership was transferred to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the temple reopened for public tours later that month.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Kirtland Temple is unique because it was the very first temple constructed in the Restoration. Unlike modern temples, it was designed as both a house of worship and a house of learning, where the Saints held worship services, priesthood meetings, and the School of the Prophets.
Another distinctive feature is its interior. The two main assembly halls each contain dual pulpits at opposite ends of the room, representing the Melchizedek and Aaronic Priesthoods. This design is unlike any modern temple and reflects the purposes of the temple during the early days of the Church.
Perhaps the most significant event associated with the Kirtland Temple occurred on April 3, 1836, when Jesus Christ appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, followed by Moses, Elias, and Elijah, who restored essential priesthood keys. This event remains one of the most important moments in the history of the Restoration.
Visiting the Temple
The Kirtland Temple is located at 9020 Chillicothe Road in Kirtland, Ohio. Today, visitors can enjoy free guided tours that begin at the nearby Kirtland Temple Visitors' Center. Tours take approximately one hour and allow guests to explore all three floors of this historic building while learning about the faith and sacrifices of the early Saints.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in this dispensation.
- Only temple completed during Joseph Smith's lifetime.
- Construction began on June 5, 1833.
- Dedicated on March 27, 1836, by Joseph Smith.
- Jesus Christ, Moses, Elias, and Elijah appeared here on April 3, 1836.
- Approximately 15,000 square feet.
- Originally called the "House of the Lord" by the early Saints.
- Preserved by the Community of Christ for 144 years.
- Ownership transferred to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on March 5, 2024.
- Open today for guided public tours.
Final Thoughts
The Kirtland Temple occupies a unique place in the history of the Restoration. It was here that early Saints witnessed miraculous spiritual experiences and where sacred priesthood keys were restored that continue to bless the Church today. Whether you are interested in Church history or simply want to walk where these remarkable events took place, the Kirtland Temple is an unforgettable destination on any temple journey.
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