The Moses Lake Washington Temple is the fourth temple built in Washington and serves members throughout central and eastern Washington. Located in the growing city of Moses Lake, the temple is known for its beautiful architecture, agricultural-inspired artwork, and convenient location for members who once traveled long distances to attend the temple. It became the 182nd dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when it was dedicated in 2023.
A Brief History
President Russell M. Nelson announced the Moses Lake Washington Temple during the April 2019 General Conference on April 7, 2019. The announcement came as membership in Washington continued to grow, creating the need for another temple in the state to serve members in the Columbia Basin and surrounding areas.
The temple site was announced on October 29, 2019, on a 17.2-acre property at 401 Yonezawa Boulevard, across from Yonezawa Park and near Moses Lake High School. Groundbreaking services were held on October 10, 2020, with Elder David L. Stapleton presiding. Following a 15-day public open house from August 4–19, 2023, Elder Quentin L. Cook dedicated the temple on September 17, 2023, making it the 182nd dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Moses Lake Washington Temple's most distinctive features is its design, which celebrates the agricultural heritage of central Washington. Decorative motifs throughout the temple include apple blossoms, potato blossoms, alfalfa blossoms, wheat, and other regional crops, reflecting the area's rich farming tradition. The custom art glass also features apple blossom patterns alongside prairie-inspired designs that honor the Native peoples who first lived in the region.
The temple features a graceful single attached central spire rising approximately 117 feet 6 inches. Its exterior is finished with beautiful Branco Cristal granite quarried in Portugal, while the interior contains approximately 28,933 square feet, including two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry.
Another unique feature is the temple's strategic location along Interstate 90, making it easily accessible for members traveling from communities across central Washington. Before the temple was built, many members attended the Columbia River Washington Temple or Spokane Washington Temple, often requiring several hours of travel.
Visiting the Temple
The Moses Lake Washington Temple is located at 401 Yonezawa Boulevard in Moses Lake, Washington. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, or patron housing. It does include an on-site distribution center, and visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds surrounding the temple.
Fun Facts
- Fourth temple built in Washington.
- 182nd dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on April 7, 2019.
- Temple site announced on October 29, 2019.
- Groundbreaking held on October 10, 2020.
- Dedicated by Elder Quentin L. Cook on September 17, 2023.
- Public open house lasted 15 days.
- Built on a 17.2-acre property.
- Approximately 28,933 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with Branco Cristal granite from Portugal.
- Decorative artwork highlights apple blossoms and the agricultural heritage of central Washington.
Final Thoughts
The Moses Lake Washington Temple is a beautiful symbol of faith for Latter-day Saints throughout central and eastern Washington. Its thoughtful architecture, regional artistic details, and convenient location have brought temple worship significantly closer to thousands of members. Whether you're attending the temple or simply enjoying its peaceful grounds, the Moses Lake Washington Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
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