The Sacramento California Temple is the seventh temple built in California, the third in Northern California, and the 123rd dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Rancho Cordova, just east of Sacramento, the temple overlooks Lake Natoma and the Sierra Nevada foothills. Its peaceful wooded setting, elegant granite exterior, and spacious grounds have made it a beloved temple for members throughout Northern California.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Sacramento California Temple on April 21, 2001, alongside the Redlands California Temple and the Newport Beach California Temple. The announcement brought great excitement to members who had traveled for years to the Oakland California Temple for temple worship.
The Church announced the temple site in Rancho Cordova later that year. Early plans called for a much larger temple, but the design was eventually revised to follow the successful floor plan used for the Redlands and Newport Beach temples, significantly reducing long-term operating costs while still meeting the area's needs. After local planning approval, President Gordon B. Hinckley presided over the groundbreaking and site dedication on August 22, 2004.
Following a 28-day public open house from July 29 through August 26, 2006, more than 168,000 visitors toured the temple. President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on September 3, 2006, making it the 123rd dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Sacramento California Temple's most distinctive features is its beautiful 46-acre property overlooking Lake Natoma. The site was originally owned by Aerojet General Corporation as a recreational facility before being purchased by the Church in the early 1970s. Mature oak trees, rolling hills, and scenic views of the Sierra Nevada foothills create a peaceful atmosphere that is unlike many urban temple sites.
The temple contains approximately 19,500 square feet and features two progressive instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and a baptistry. The exterior is finished with light gray granite, and a graceful 131-foot single spire topped with the angel Moroni rises above the surrounding landscape.
Another unique aspect of the temple is its design history. It was originally planned as a much larger building similar to the St. Louis Missouri Temple before Church leaders chose a more efficient design. This decision allowed the Church to continue expanding temple construction while keeping operating costs lower.
Visiting the Temple
The Sacramento California Temple is located at 2110 California Circle in Rancho Cordova, California. The temple does not have a visitors' center, arrival center, patron housing, or an on-site distribution center. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds, mature oak trees, and peaceful views overlooking Lake Natoma. Temple patrons are encouraged to bring their own temple clothing.
Fun Facts
- Seventh temple built in California.
- Third temple built in Northern California.
- 123rd dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on April 21, 2001.
- Groundbreaking held on August 22, 2004.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on September 3, 2006.
- Public open house lasted 28 days and welcomed more than 168,000 visitors.
- Built on a 46-acre site overlooking Lake Natoma.
- Approximately 19,500 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Originally planned as a much larger temple before the design was revised.
- Exterior finished with light gray granite.
Final Thoughts
The Sacramento California Temple has blessed Latter-day Saints throughout Northern California since 2006. Its beautiful natural setting, elegant architecture, and rich history make it one of California's most picturesque temples. Whether you're attending an ordinance or enjoying the peaceful grounds overlooking Lake Natoma, the Sacramento California 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