The Spokane Washington Temple is the second temple built in Washington and the 59th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Spokane Valley, just east of downtown Spokane, the temple serves members throughout eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and portions of western Montana. Though modest in size, its peaceful setting, granite exterior, and beautiful landscaping have made it a cherished house of the Lord since its dedication in 1999.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the Spokane Washington Temple on August 13, 1998, as part of the Church's historic effort to build smaller temples closer to members around the world. Before its construction, many members in eastern Washington traveled several hours to the Seattle Washington Temple to participate in temple ordinances.
Groundbreaking services were held on October 10, 1998, with Elder F. Melvin Hammond presiding. Interestingly, the Spokane groundbreaking occurred on the same day as the groundbreaking for the Detroit Michigan Temple—the first time in Church history that two temple groundbreaking ceremonies were held on the same day.
The temple welcomed visitors during an eight-day public open house from August 6–14, 1999 before President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated it during 11 dedicatory sessions held August 21–23, 1999, making it the 59th dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Spokane Washington Temple follows one of the Church's early small temple designs, containing approximately 10,700 square feet. Inside are two progressive instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry, allowing members to enjoy a peaceful worship experience in an intimate setting. The exterior is finished in granite and is crowned by a single attached spire topped with the angel Moroni.
One of the temple's most interesting stories involves the original Angel Moroni statue. In 2009, nearly ten years after the temple's dedication, the statue was replaced. Unlike the original statue, which faced east, the new statue was positioned to face west, matching the orientation of the temple itself.
Another memorable story comes from the temple's construction. The truck driver who delivered the Angel Moroni statue, baptismal font, and oxen to the temple site reportedly did not realize what he was transporting until he arrived. Upon learning the significance of his cargo, he became deeply emotional and expressed gratitude for having participated in the construction of the Lord's house.
Visiting the Temple
The Spokane Washington Temple is located at:
13710 East 40th Avenue
Spokane Valley, Washington 99206
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 and patrons are encouraged to bring their own temple clothing. The beautifully landscaped grounds provide a peaceful place for quiet reflection and are open for visitors to enjoy.
Fun Facts
- Second temple built in Washington.
- 59th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on August 13, 1998.
- Groundbreaking held on October 10, 1998.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on August 21, 1999.
- Public open house lasted 8 days.
- Built on a 2-acre site.
- Approximately 10,700 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished in granite.
- The Angel Moroni statue was replaced and reoriented in 2009.
- Serves 16 stakes across eastern Washington and northern Idaho.
Final Thoughts
The Spokane Washington Temple may be one of the Church's smaller temples, but it has had a tremendous impact on members throughout the Inland Northwest. By bringing temple blessings closer to thousands of Latter-day Saints, it fulfilled President Gordon B. Hinckley's vision of making temples more accessible around the world. Whether you're attending an ordinance or enjoying the peaceful grounds, the Spokane Washington Temple is a meaningful stop on any temple journey.
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