The Raleigh North Carolina Temple was the first temple built in North Carolina and became the 68th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Apex, just southwest of Raleigh, the temple serves members throughout eastern and central North Carolina. Though one of the Church's smaller temples, its beautiful limestone exterior, peaceful wooded setting, and rich history have made it a beloved house of the Lord since its dedication in 1999.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Raleigh North Carolina Temple on September 3, 1998, bringing great excitement to Latter-day Saints throughout the state. Prior to its announcement, members often traveled long distances to temples in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, or other neighboring states.
Groundbreaking and site dedication took place on February 6, 1999, with Elder Loren C. Dunn presiding. Construction progressed quickly, and following an eight-day public open house from December 3–11, 1999, President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on December 18–19, 1999, making it the 68th dedicated temple of the Church. The dedication occurred just days before Christmas and only five days before the 194th anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Joseph Smith, making the occasion especially meaningful.
The temple closed on January 7, 2018, for an extensive renovation. Improvements included upgraded mechanical and electrical systems, accessibility enhancements, modifications to the floor plan, an enclosed entrance canopy, and raising the steeple approximately 10 feet. After a seven-day public open house in September 2019, Elder M. Russell Ballard rededicated the temple on October 13, 2019.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Raleigh North Carolina Temple's most distinctive features is its intimate size. At approximately 12,864 square feet, it is one of the smaller operating temples in the Church, yet it efficiently serves 17 stakes across eastern and north-central North Carolina.
The temple's exterior is finished with elegant beige limestone and features a graceful single attached spire topped with the angel Moroni. Inside, the temple includes two progressive instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry. The peaceful wooded surroundings create a quiet atmosphere that complements the temple's simple and beautiful design.
Another unique aspect of the temple is its renovation. Rather than simply refreshing finishes, the 2018–2019 project modernized major building systems while carefully preserving the temple's original character. The increased steeple height also gave the temple an even more prominent appearance.
Visiting the Temple
The Raleigh North Carolina Temple is located at 574 Bryan Drive in Apex, North Carolina. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. Temple clothing rental is not available, although baptistry clothing is provided. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the peaceful grounds and beautifully maintained landscaping surrounding the temple.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in North Carolina.
- 68th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on September 3, 1998.
- Groundbreaking held on February 6, 1999.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on December 18–19, 1999.
- Rededicated by Elder M. Russell Ballard on October 13, 2019.
- Public open house lasted 8 days before the original dedication and 7 days before the rededication.
- Built on a 3.17-acre property.
- Approximately 12,864 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with beige limestone.
- The temple's steeple was raised approximately 10 feet during the 2018–2019 renovation.
Final Thoughts
The Raleigh North Carolina Temple has blessed Latter-day Saints throughout North Carolina for more than two decades. As the state's first temple, it has brought sacred ordinances closer to thousands of members while standing as a symbol of faith and growth in the region. Whether you're attending an ordinance or enjoying the peaceful grounds, the Raleigh North Carolina Temple is a meaningful stop on any temple journey.
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