The St. Paul Minnesota Temple is the first temple built in Minnesota and the 69th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Oakdale, just east of downtown St. Paul, the temple serves members throughout Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and portions of Manitoba, Canada. Nestled among mature oak trees on a peaceful wooded site, the temple provides a tranquil place of worship for Latter-day Saints across the Upper Midwest.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the St. Paul Minnesota Temple on July 29, 1998, as part of the Church's effort to build smaller temples closer to members around the world. Before its construction, many members in Minnesota traveled between seven and fourteen hours to attend the Chicago Illinois Temple.
Groundbreaking and site dedication took place on September 26, 1998, with Elder Hugh W. Pinnock presiding. During the ceremony, local Church leaders reflected on the long history of Latter-day Saints in Minnesota, noting that the first known members arrived from Nauvoo in 1847. Construction moved quickly, and the temple welcomed visitors during a 13-day public open house from December 18–31, 1999.
President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple on January 9, 2000, making it the 69th dedicated temple of the Church. Since then, the temple has blessed members across the Upper Midwest by dramatically reducing travel time for temple worship.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The St. Paul Minnesota Temple follows one of the Church's original small temple designs, containing approximately 11,411 square feet. Inside are two progressive instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry. Despite its modest size, the temple efficiently serves members across a large geographic region.
One of the temple's most distinctive features is its beautiful 7.5-acre wooded site. During the search for a stake center years before the temple was announced, local leaders felt strongly impressed that this oak-covered property had been prepared by the Lord. That same property later became the site for both the stake center and Minnesota's first temple.
The temple's exterior is finished with light gray granite veneer and features a 71-foot single attached spire topped with the angel Moroni. The surrounding oak trees, seasonal flowers, and peaceful landscaping create a quiet atmosphere that reflects the natural beauty of Minnesota.
Visiting the Temple
The St. Paul Minnesota Temple is located at:
2150 Hadley Avenue North
Oakdale, Minnesota 55128
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 walk the beautifully landscaped grounds and enjoy the peaceful wooded setting.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in Minnesota.
- 69th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on July 29, 1998.
- Groundbreaking held on September 26, 1998.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on January 9, 2000.
- Public open house lasted 13 days.
- Built on a 7.5-acre site.
- Approximately 11,411 square feet.
- Features two instruction rooms, two sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with light gray granite veneer.
- Stands 71 feet tall.
- Serves members from nine stakes in Minnesota and northern Wisconsin.
Final Thoughts
The St. Paul Minnesota Temple brought temple blessings to Latter-day Saints throughout the Upper Midwest after decades of long-distance travel. Surrounded by towering oak trees and thoughtfully landscaped grounds, it remains a peaceful sanctuary where members make sacred covenants and strengthen their faith. Whether you're attending an ordinance or simply enjoying the beautiful setting, the St. Paul Minnesota Temple is a memorable stop on any temple journey.
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