Layton Utah Temple

The Layton Utah Temple melds orchard-inspired design with earth-quake resilience, symbolizing lasting community heritage.

INTRODUCTION

Step into the Layton Utah Temple—a marvel of modern architecture and spiritual resilience nestled in Davis County. Imagine precast concrete elegance infused with local orchard charm, all designed to withstand the tests of time and nature.

MAP OF LAYTON UTAH TEMPLE

A collage of three images of the Layton Utah Temple in front of a rectangular, gold frame.

VISITOR INFORMATION

Visiting Hours:

6:15am-10:00pm, closed on Sunday and Monday, appointments are encouraged

Dress Code:

Respectful, modest attire is appreciated onsite, modest dress is required for patrons entering the temple

Best Times to Visit:

Winter, spring, and fall.

Nearby Attractions

Enveloping the Layton Utah Temple is a mosaic of picturesque landscapes and historical treasures, offering a comprehensive exploration of Utah's cultural and natural marvels.

At night, a fountain gushing water from several jets illuminates the dark. The Salt Lake Temple is illuminated in the background.

Salt Lake City and Temple Square

A stone’s throw from Layton, discover the historic Temple Square in Salt Lake City, a blend of divine architecture and lush gardens in Utah’s capital. 

Family Search Library

Antelope Island State Park

Near Layton, Antelope Island offers serene landscapes and wildlife, a natural complement to the spiritual tranquility of the temple.

Hill Aerospace Museum

Explore the marvels of aviation history at the Hill Aerospace Museum, adding a touch of discovery to the spiritual journey near Layton.

"The temple is an ever-present reminder that God intends the family to be eternal."

~ Ezra Taft Benson

Interesting

Facts

19th Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Utah

The temple is 215 feet tall.

Construction began during COVID-19 Pandemic.

Reinforced concrete walls to soundproof against nearby jet runway and air force base.

Rich geological heritage--on the site of an 11.8-acre pasture.

Approximately 87,000 square feet.

Olivia Coleman
Olivia Coleman
Beautiful
We love the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This temple is a beautiful place.
Jtak Topiseni
Jtak Topiseni
The House of the Lord
The house of the Lord. Is a replica of Gods purity and majesty. His authority, power and glory. A ensign to all the world and Is here for all to witness. It is not the work of God that is frustrated. But the work of men.
JD VL
JD VL
A beacon of light and hope
Holiness to the Lord, the house of the Lord. I am deeply grateful that this sacred house is dedicated to the Lord. It stands as a beacon of light and hope in a world that often feels dark and uncertain. This house of worship is not just a building; it is a sanctuary where we can find peace, solace, and a sense of divine presence. The dedication of this house signifies a place where prayers are offered, faith is strengthened, and hearts are uplifted. It serves as a reminder of the Lord's love and the eternal truths that guide our lives. The beauty and sanctity of this house inspire us to live more righteously and to seek a closer relationship with the Lord. Truly, it is a refuge from the storms of life and a testament to the enduring light of faith.
Corby B.
Corby B.
Wonderful Building
Wonderful building to come and learn of Jesus Christ and learn to be better. Plus do essential work for those who have gone on before us. Being Sealed together Forever is the BEST.
Marlayne Lyman
Marlayne Lyman
Truly a house of God.
It was overwhelmingly beautiful and peaceful. I loved the artwork throughout. I felt the Saviors' love and peace. This is truly a house of God.

Related Posts

Fascinating Stories

of the Layton Utah Temple

The intent to construct the Layton Utah Temple was announced by Church President Russell M. Nelson on April 1, 2018, during the 188th annual general conference, marking a significant expansion of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Northern Utah. This announcement was part of a historic moment where seven temples were introduced, bringing the total number of operating or announced temples worldwide to 189 at the time.

Crafted by Naylor Wentworth Lund Architects, the Layton Utah Temple showcases traditional temple architecture intrinsic to the Church, featuring twin spires, arched windows, and a statue of the angel Moroni. The design reflects both the cultural heritage of Davis County and the spiritual significance of the Church, incorporating symbolic elements like the cherry tree motif, which honors the region’s fruit production history. The temple, spanning 87,000 square feet over three stories, is constructed with concrete and adorned with stained glass, adding to its distinctive and sacred character.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place on May 23, 2020, presided over by Craig C. Christensen, president of the Church's Utah Area, with Elder Randy D. Funk offering the site dedicatory prayer. This marked the commencement of construction on the 11.8-acre property located at the corner of Oak Hills Drive and Rosewood Lane in southeast Layton. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Church proceeded with a small-scale, private groundbreaking to ensure construction could begin, adhering to health guidelines.

A public open house occured from April 19 to June 1, 2024, inviting individuals of all faiths to tour the temple and learn about its sacred functions. This will precede the temple's dedication on June 16, 2024, by David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, emphasizing the temple's role in spiritual growth and community enrichment.

The chosen site for the temple has deep historical roots, having belonged to a family for over a century, originally settled in the 1850s by an English immigrant and Church convert. The family sold the land to the Church in 2018, just before the temple's announcement, adding a layer of historical and personal significance to the temple's location.

Upon its dedication, the Layton Utah Temple will serve as a central place for worship and spiritual ceremonies, including baptisms for the dead, endowment ceremonies, and sealings. These sacred ordinances underscore the Church's teachings on eternal families and personal salvation, providing a serene environment for spiritual reflection and connection.

Fushimi Shrine

Jay R. Bangerter and Kathleen R. Bangerter have been called as president and matron of the Layton Utah Temple, bringing experienced leadership to guide the temple's operations and spiritual direction for visitors and patrons.

The Layton Utah Temple stands as the 19th temple in Utah and the second in Davis County, symbolizing the Church's commitment to creating sacred spaces that foster spiritual practices and community enrichment. Its completion will mark a significant addition to the region's spiritual landscape, playing a vital role in the lives of Church members.

Timeline Of The Layton, Utah Temple

April 1, 2018

President Russell M. Nelson announces the construction of the Layton Utah Temple during the general conference, marking a significant development in the Church’s presence in Utah.

During its construction period, the Layton Utah temple is visible from the air. Green trees and various neighborhoods are visible from behind the temple.

July 15, 2019

The Church publicly identifies the temple site as an 11.87-acre parcel located in southeast Layton at the intersection of Oak Hills Drive and North Rosewood Lane, solidifying the temple’s future location.

During the building process, the Layton Utah Temple can be seen to the left, with green mountains visible in the background.

July 15, 2019

The Church publicly identifies the temple site as an 11.87-acre parcel located in southeast Layton at the intersection of Oak Hills Drive and North Rosewood Lane, solidifying the temple’s future location.

During the building process, the Layton Utah Temple can be seen to the left, with green mountains visible in the background.

October 8, 2019

An official exterior rendering of the Layton Utah Temple is released, showcasing the design of a three-story, 87,000-square-foot building with two attached end spires and an Angel Moroni statue, offering the public a first glimpse into the architectural vision of the temple.

With dual spires extended in the air, the Layton Utah Temple sits around red and gray dirt during its construction phase.

May 23, 2020

A small-scale groundbreaking ceremony is conducted by Elder Craig C. Christensen with Elder Randy D. Funk offering the site dedicatory prayer, initiating the construction phase. The ceremony is adapted for COVID-19 health guidelines, reflecting the Church’s commitment to proceeding with this sacred project while ensuring public safety.

The ground beneath the concrete, seismic-reenforced walls of the Layton Utah Temple is coated in snow as cranes sit beside the large unfinished structure, their metal arms jetting upward.

May 23, 2020

A small-scale groundbreaking ceremony is conducted by Elder Craig C. Christensen with Elder Randy D. Funk offering the site dedicatory prayer, initiating the construction phase. The ceremony is adapted for COVID-19 health guidelines, reflecting the Church’s commitment to proceeding with this sacred project while ensuring public safety.

The ground beneath the concrete, seismic-reenforced walls of the Layton Utah Temple is coated in snow as cranes sit beside the large unfinished structure, their metal arms jetting upward.

March 2, 2023

Jay Ronald Bangerter and Kathleen Rich Bangerter are called as president and matron of the Layton Utah Temple, bringing experienced leadership to oversee the temple’s operations and spiritual guidance for visitors and patrons.

A gold Angel Moroni Statue holding a trumpet stands on the peak of one of the two brown spires of the Layton Temple. Part of the valley is visible behind the temple, with variously sized homes and several trees.

April 15, 2024

A media day is scheduled, allowing press and invited guests an early preview of the temple, providing insights into its architectural and spiritual significance.

Autumn leaves of golden orange and of green sit in the foreground, with the Layton Utah Temple rising majestically in the middle ground above the tree line. Red and orange mountains dominate the background behind the temple.

April 15, 2024

A media day is scheduled, allowing press and invited guests an early preview of the temple, providing insights into its architectural and spiritual significance.

Autumn leaves of golden orange and of green sit in the foreground, with the Layton Utah Temple rising majestically in the middle ground above the tree line. Red and orange mountains dominate the background behind the temple.

April 19 to June 1, 2024

The temple opens its doors for a public open house, inviting individuals of all faiths to tour its sacred interiors, learn about the temple’s purposes, and witness the beauty and tranquility of this holy space, excluding Sundays to observe the Sabbath.

The landscaping phase of the Layton Utah Temple, with sparse plants around the perimeter of the large, white structure.

June 16, 2024

The Layton Utah Temple was dedicated by Elder David A. Bednar in two sessions. It was broadcast to all congregations within the temple district, uniting the community in celebration and worship as the temple begins its role as a house of the Lord.

In front of snowy mountains, the Layton Utah Temple rests with different work trucks on every side of the white structure.

June 16, 2024

The Layton Utah Temple was dedicated by Elder David A. Bednar in two sessions. It was broadcast to all congregations within the temple district, uniting the community in celebration and worship as the temple begins its role as a house of the Lord.

In front of snowy mountains, the Layton Utah Temple rests with different work trucks on every side of the white structure.

History of The Layton Utah Temple

Still wet from a recent snowstorm, the Layton Utah Temple is seen from the air, with snow at its base. The mostly cloudy sky allows wisps of blue to peek through the cloud layer.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Layton Utah Temple, originally planned for a large gathering, was altered due to COVID-19.

Instead of hundreds or thousands, only about 20 guests attended the private ceremony on May 23, 2020. The Utah Area presidency and guests followed health guidelines, including social distancing and masks.

Despite the restrictions, the ceremony maintained its spiritual significance. It was video-recorded and shared online, allowing broader participation. Aerial footage and contributions from the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square enhanced the virtual experience, while the intimate setting underscored the ceremony’s simplicity and the church’s deep-rooted traditions.

Elder Craig C. Christensen presided over the ceremony, aiming to create an inclusive experience. Elder Randy D. Funk offered a dedicatory prayer, blessing the construction site and all involved.

The modest event showcased the church’s adaptability and commitment to continuing important spiritual milestones while adhering to health mandates.

A Family's Heritage

As seen from the air above a pasture, the Layton Utah Temple rises above the once Morgan property, painted over a background of frigid, white mountains.

The story of the Layton Utah Temple site is deeply intertwined with the Morgan family’s history, tracing back to Joseph Morgan, an English convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who settled the land in the 1850s.

After journeying across the plains to Utah, Joseph established a homestead on this very land, laying the foundation for over a century of his family’s legacy.

The property, cherished by the Morgans as a sacred inheritance, was eventually sold to the Church in 2018, coinciding closely with the announcement of the new temple.

This transition from a family pasture to a sacred temple site is laden with emotional significance for the Morgan descendants. Mark Morgan, representing the family’s fifth generation, expressed a poignant mix of pride and nostalgia over the sale, emphasizing the honor it brings to their lineage.

This narrative encapsulates not just the physical transformation of the land but also the enduring spirit of pioneer resilience and faith that the temple will stand to honor.

Architectural Achievement

During its landscaping period, the Layton Utah Temple sits waiting for more work to be completed around its temple grounds.

The Layton Utah Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stands as a testament to modern design principles intertwined with local heritage.

Utilizing a “Core design,” the construction timeframe was significantly reduced from the typical 18 months to a mere 6-7 months.

This innovative approach was developed after a thorough study of the local history, ensuring the temple not only resonated with the community’s past but also utilized materials sourced from the surrounding area, further rooting the temple in its locale.

A distinctive feature of the temple’s design is the incorporation of the cherry tree motif, a homage to Davis County’s rich history of fruit production.

This theme is not just superficial; it permeates throughout the temple’s architecture, from its stained-glass windows to the interior décor, symbolizing the area’s agricultural legacy.

The cherry blossom, in particular, was chosen for its beauty and significance, mirroring the region’s transformation each spring and symbolizing renewal and growth, themes deeply embedded in the temple’s purpose.

The temple’s grounds further reflect this connection to nature and local history, with landscaping that includes mature trees from a residence that once stood on the property.

This blend of modern construction techniques with elements that honor the local heritage and natural beauty makes the Layton Utah Temple a remarkable architectural achievement and a sacred space deeply connected to its environment and community. 

Layton Temple Photos

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