Temple Square , LDS in the world 1 min read
he Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gave the media a sneak peek of its new Visitors Center at Temple Square on April 13, 2026. This space was created with a clear focus: to put Jesus Christ at the center and help more people understand why temples are so important.
2027 ఏప్రిల్ నుండి అక్టోబర్ వరకు జరగనున్న సాల్ట్ లేక్ టెంపుల్ (Salt Lake Temple) వేడుకల కోసం చేస్తున్న ఏర్పాట్లలో ఇది ఒక భాగం.
Beginning May 18, 2026, anyone will be able to visit this place. There, they will find interactive experiences that explain, in a simple way, how temples relate to faith, family, service, and covenants with God.
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and Young Women General President Emily Belle Freeman spoke with the media. Image: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
During the tour with the press, Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf also explained that he personally dedicated this new space, consecrating it with a specific purpose: that those who visit it may learn more about the gospel of Jesus Christ.
We want those who come to be able to see, learn and better understand what we believe,” he said, inviting everyone to come and experience it.
Furthermore, he urged everyone to look beyond the visit itself. “We are all part of the same family,” he reminded them, emphasizing that this message also encourages us to support and uplift those around us.
Emily Belle Freeman, Young Women's General President, also participated in the presentation and accompanied the journalists during the tour.
She explained that this center not only paves the way for 2027, but also aims for something deeper.
The temple is at the center of God’s plan.”
He also emphasized that everything in this space points to Jesus Christ and helps us remember who we are and to whom we belong.
We are part of God’s family.”
Inside the building, visitors will find several significant elements. For example, a replica of the Christus is located in the west wing. Also, on the lower level, right in the center, stands the marble sculpture "Come to Me," created by the artist Christian Bolt . This work depicts Jesus Christ extending an invitation of peace. On one hand, he approaches people; on the other, he welcomes them.
At the same time, the building measures approximately 3,700 square meters. It also showcases a history that began 179 years ago. In 1847, Brigham Young declared that a temple would be built there. Since then, Temple Square has welcomed visitors from all over the world. In fact, this tradition began in 1875 with volunteer guides. Today, it is one of the most visited religious destinations in the United States.
On the other hand, the center is located on the south side of Temple Square. There, visitors can enjoy various immersive experiences.
One of the most popular tours is "Inside a Temple." This guided tour lasts 30 minutes. Along the way, visitors pass through life-size replicas of various spaces. For example, it includes the reception area, the baptistery, the instruction room, the sealing room, and the celestial room. While these rooms are not exact replicas of the Salt Lake Temple, they do adhere to the same construction standards.
As a result, those who visit this space describe a distinct feeling. They speak of peace, silence, and reflection. Some even consider it an atmosphere of worship.
Similarly, another experience features a model of the Salt Lake Temple. For five minutes, the walls open, revealing its interior. Meanwhile, a narration set to music explains what happens inside the temple and why it is important to followers of Jesus Christ.
In addition, the center includes a section on temples around the world. There, 11 miniature temples are on display. Next to them, an interactive globe connects these temples to God's plan for families. In this way, this space highlights the Church's global presence.
The team designed this center specifically for non-members. To achieve this, they collaborated with experiential specialists. In this way, they created a journey that connects with people based on their own experiences. It assumes no prior knowledge and guides them step by step.
Therefore, the content avoids a formal or rigid tone. Instead, it presents real stories from members. This makes the experience feel more personal and human.
Upon exiting, visitors can stroll through the gardens. There they will find bronze sculptures depicting moments from the ministry of Jesus Christ. Among them are two new additions: Christ Carrying the Cross and Christ in Gethsemane. These spaces invite reflection and personal connection.
Meanwhile, the Salt Lake Temple continues its renovation. The project includes seismic reinforcement and an expansion of its capacity. As part of this process, the Church will hold an open house for six months in 2027.
Regarding the visit, the Visitor Center will be open daily from 9 am to 9 pm. Admission is free. You don't need a reservation to enter. However, you do need to book the "Inside a Temple" tour. You can do this on the Temple Square app or their website.
In addition, the venue will offer free parking with validation at the Conference Center. Parking options will also be available in City Creek. Furthermore, you can easily reach the venue by public transportation thanks to the nearby TRAX station. The center will be accessible to everyone.
source: newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org
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