The Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple is one of the most prominent temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in South Jordan, Utah, at the foot of the Oquirrh Mountains, it was the thirteenth temple built in Utah, the fourth temple in the Salt Lake Valley, and the 130th dedicated temple of the Church. Positioned on a bluff overlooking the valley, the temple offers breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains and several other nearby temples.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple during the October 2005 General Conference on October 1, 2005. At the same time, he noted that another future temple site had already been acquired for the southwest portion of the Salt Lake Valley, reflecting the area's remarkable growth.
Groundbreaking services were held on December 16, 2006, with President Hinckley presiding. During the ceremony, he officially revealed the temple's name, replacing the previously used working title of the South Jordan Utah Temple to avoid confusion with the nearby Jordan River Utah Temple. The new name honors the nearby Oquirrh Mountains, whose name comes from a Goshute word often translated as "shining mountains" or "wooded mountain."
Following a remarkable 61-day public open house from June 1 through August 1, 2009, President Thomas S. Monson dedicated the temple during nine dedicatory sessions held August 21–23, 2009. The dedication coincided with President Monson's 82nd birthday, and those attending the cornerstone ceremony surprised him by singing "Happy Birthday." For the first time in Utah history, Sunday Church meetings were canceled statewide so members could participate in the temple dedication.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the temple's most distinctive features is its location. Built on an elevated bluff in the Daybreak community, the temple faces east toward the Wasatch Mountains and provides panoramic views of the Salt Lake Temple, Jordan River Utah Temple, and Draper Utah Temple. It was also the first temple built in a city that already had another operating temple, making South Jordan the first city in the world with two operating temples.
The temple's exterior is clad in beautiful Uinta Gold granite from China and rises 183 feet to the top of its single spire. Inside, the temple contains approximately 60,000 square feet, including four instruction rooms, seven sealing rooms, and a baptistry. The celestial room is highlighted by a stunning 15-foot chandelier containing more than 19,000 Swarovski crystals, while original murals throughout the ordinance rooms were painted by Church-service missionaries.
Another memorable event occurred during the public open house in June 2009, when lightning struck the angel Moroni statue, blackening parts of the statue's face, arm, and trumpet. The damaged statue was replaced just days before the dedication.
Visiting the Temple
The Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple is located at 11022 South 4000 West in South Jordan, Utah. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. Visitors are welcome to walk the beautifully landscaped grounds and enjoy sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding mountains.
Fun Facts
- Thirteenth temple built in Utah.
- Fourth temple built in the Salt Lake Valley.
- 130th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on October 1, 2005.
- Groundbreaking held on December 16, 2006.
- Dedicated by President Thomas S. Monson on August 21–23, 2009.
- Public open house lasted 61 days.
- Built on an 11-acre property.
- Approximately 60,000 square feet.
- Features four instruction rooms, seven sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with Uinta Gold granite from China.
- First temple built in a city that already had another operating temple.
- The angel Moroni statue was struck by lightning during the public open house and replaced before the dedication.
Final Thoughts
The Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple stands as a beautiful symbol of the Church's growth along the Wasatch Front. With its remarkable views, elegant design, and unique place in Church history, it has become a beloved house of the Lord for thousands of members in the western Salt Lake Valley. Whether you're attending the temple or simply enjoying its peaceful grounds, the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
Stay Connected
Are you working toward visiting every temple in the United States?
Sign up for our email list to receive new temple guides, travel inspiration, product updates, and exclusive offers.
You can also explore our My Temple Journey books, designed to help you record the memories, promptings, and spiritual experiences from every temple you visit.
Visit https://broughmade.com to learn more and begin your temple journey today.
Scott & Riah
Brough Made
https://broughmade.com
0 comments