MANTI — In a ceremony on Sunday, residents and visitors gathered at the historic Manti Utah Temple as Russell M. Nelson, the president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, presided over its rededication. The ceremony marked the culmination of a significant renovation effort that lasted two and a half years.

Nelson, accompanied by his wife, Wendy, and other prominent church leaders, arrived earlier in the day in Sanpete County, the ancestral home of his pioneer forebears who played a pivotal role in settling the region.

During the rededication ceremony, Nelson emphasized the sacred purpose of temples, stating, “We build temples to honor the Lord. They are built for worship and not for show. We make sacred covenants of eternal significance inside these sacred walls.” He further expressed gratitude for the blessings that emanate from obedience to these sacred promises.

The rededication prayer offered by the prophet acknowledged the significance of Jesus Christ as the Savior and Redeemer, expressing gratitude for the possibility of eternal life through His Atonement.

Joined by his wife, Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and other church leaders, Nelson led the ceremony with reverence and gratitude.

The Manti Utah Temple holds a special place in the hearts of many, including Rasband, whose great-grandfather contributed to its construction. “By divine design, the Manti Utah Temple is built on sacred land and has been consecrated by those who for more than a century have faithfully made and kept sacred covenants,” Rasband remarked.

The rededication follows an open house held from mid-March to early April, allowing the public to witness the renovation’s transformative impact. The refurbishment, initiated in 2021, included mechanical updates and preservation efforts to safeguard the temple’s original murals.

Originally dedicated in 1888, the Manti Utah Temple underwent its first renovation in 1985 under President Gordon B. Hinckley. This recent renovation prepares the temple for future generations while preserving its rich history and architectural heritage.

The Manti Utah Temple is among 30 temples in various stages of construction or announcement in Utah, underscoring the state’s significance as a hub of Latter-day Saint worship. With temples serving as sacred spaces for members to commune with God, their importance is paramount in Latter-day Saint theology.

As the Manti Utah Temple reopens its doors, it continues to stand as a beacon of faith and devotion, welcoming all who seek solace, inspiration, and spiritual renewal within its hallowed halls.

Newsletter