The Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple is the second temple built in Pennsylvania and the 196th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Cranberry Township, just north of Pittsburgh, the temple serves members throughout western Pennsylvania, northeast Ohio, and northern West Virginia. Dedicated in 2024, it stands as a symbol of the Church's continued growth in the region and provides a much closer temple for thousands of Latter-day Saints.
A Brief History
President Russell M. Nelson announced the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple during the April 2020 General Conference on April 5, 2020. The announcement was especially meaningful for members in western Pennsylvania, who had previously traveled to the Columbus Ohio Temple, the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple, or the Washington D.C. Temple to participate in temple ordinances.
On January 19, 2021, the Church announced the temple site and released the official exterior rendering. The temple would be built on a 5.8-acre property at 2093 Powell Road in Cranberry Township, adjacent to the meetinghouse of the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania North Stake and just minutes from the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstate 76).
Groundbreaking services were held on August 21, 2021, with Elder Randall K. Bennett presiding. During the ceremony, Elder Bennett encouraged members to make both the temple and Jesus Christ the center of their lives. Following construction, the temple welcomed visitors during a 15-day public open house from August 16–31, 2024. Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf dedicated the temple on September 15, 2024, making it the 196th dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple's most distinctive features is its connection to the city's identity as the "City of Bridges." The temple grounds include a beautiful granite pedestrian bridge connecting the temple property with the adjacent stake center. The bridge symbolizes the sacred covenants made in the temple, creating a connection between earth and heaven while honoring Pittsburgh's famous network of more than 400 bridges.
The temple's design also celebrates Pennsylvania's natural beauty. Decorative artwork throughout the temple is inspired by the mountain laurel, Pennsylvania's official state flower, while elegant gold accents pay tribute to Pittsburgh's industrial heritage. The exterior is finished with beautiful granite cladding from Portugal, and a graceful 125-foot single attached central spire crowns the building.
Inside, the temple contains approximately 32,240 square feet and features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry. Original artwork includes paintings such as "God Doth Provide" by Kenneth Corbett and "October Dawn" by Adair Payne, helping create a peaceful and uplifting atmosphere.
Visiting the Temple
The Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple is located at 2093 Powell Road in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, or patron housing. However, it does feature an on-site distribution center, where members can purchase temple clothing and garments. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds surrounding the temple.
Fun Facts
- Second temple built in Pennsylvania.
- 196th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on April 5, 2020.
- Groundbreaking held on August 21, 2021.
- Dedicated by Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf on September 15, 2024.
- Public open house lasted 15 days.
- Built on a 5.8-acre property.
- Approximately 32,240 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with granite from Portugal.
- Includes a 125-foot central spire.
- Features a granite footbridge honoring Pittsburgh as the "City of Bridges."
- Includes an on-site distribution center.
Final Thoughts
The Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple has quickly become a cherished house of the Lord for Latter-day Saints throughout western Pennsylvania and neighboring states. Its thoughtful design, meaningful symbolism, and convenient location have brought temple worship closer to thousands of members. Whether you're attending an ordinance or simply enjoying the peaceful grounds, the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
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