Visitor Insights
Visiting Adelaide Australia Temple
The Adelaide Australia Temple is a sacred building for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The temple is currently closed for extended maintenance. When open, visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple grounds and learn more about the temple's purpose. The temple is a place of reverence and spiritual reflection.
Highlights
- Peaceful and serene atmosphere
- Beautifully landscaped grounds
- Opportunity for spiritual reflection
Things to Know
- The temple is currently closed for extended maintenance.
- Appropriate attire is required to enter the temple.
- The temple is a sacred space and should be treated with respect.
Location
53-59 Lower Portrush Road Marden, South Australia 5070, Australia
Hours: Temporarily Closed
Getting There: 53-59 Lower Portrush Road Marden, South Australia 5070, Australia
Get DirectionsAbout
The Adelaide Australia Temple is a temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located in the suburb of Marden in Adelaide, South Australia. It stands as the 89th operating temple of the Church and the second to be built in Australia, following the Sydney Australia Temple. As a sacred space for members of the Church, the temple is used for special occasions and ordinances that strengthen faith in Jesus Christ and unite families for eternity, which aligns with the broader Christian theological context of seeking spiritual connection and eternal life.
The temple serves Latter-day Saints in southern Australia, providing a place for them to participate in sacred ordinances such as baptisms for the dead, endowments, and sealings. These ordinances are central to the faith's belief in the eternal nature of families and the importance of individual spiritual growth. The Adelaide Australia Temple stands as a beacon of faith and a symbol of the Church's commitment to serving its members in Australia.
The temple's construction and dedication were significant events for the Latter-day Saint community in Australia. The announcement of the temple in 1999 was met with great excitement, and the subsequent groundbreaking and dedication ceremonies were attended by many faithful members. The temple has since become an important part of the religious lives of Latter-day Saints in the region, providing a place for them to connect with God and strengthen their faith.
As of May 8, 2026, the Adelaide Australia Temple is temporarily closed for extended maintenance. This closure allows for necessary repairs and upgrades to ensure the temple continues to serve its sacred purpose for generations to come. During this time, members of the Church can continue to worship and participate in other religious activities at local meetinghouses and other temples in the region.
Gallery
Symbolic Elements
The temple's exterior features intricate carvings, each rich with spiritual meaning:
Angel Moroni Statue
The statue of the angel Moroni stands atop the temple's spire, symbolizing the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ in the latter days. Moroni is a prophet from the Book of Mormon, a companion scripture to the Bible. The statue represents the spreading of the gospel message to the world.
Snow-White Granite
The exterior of the Adelaide Australia Temple is constructed of snow-white granite from Campolonghi, Italy. The choice of this material signifies purity, strength, and enduring beauty, reflecting the sacred nature of the temple and its eternal purpose. The granite's pristine appearance contributes to the temple's majestic presence.
Single Spire
The temple features a single spire, which is a common architectural element in Latter-day Saint temples. The spire points heavenward, symbolizing the connection between earth and the divine. It serves as a visual reminder of the temple's sacred purpose and the eternal aspirations of those who worship within its walls.
Landscaped Grounds
The Adelaide Australia Temple is set on beautifully landscaped grounds with native trees, flowers, shrubs, and gathering plazas. The gardens provide a peaceful and serene environment for visitors and members to reflect and connect with nature. The meticulously maintained grounds enhance the temple's overall sense of reverence and beauty.
Baptistry
The temple includes a baptistry, where baptisms for the dead are performed. This ordinance represents the opportunity for all to receive the saving ordinances of the gospel, even those who have passed away without the chance to be baptized in life. The baptistry is a sacred space dedicated to this important work.
Sealing Rooms
Sealing rooms are dedicated to the performance of marriage ceremonies that unite families for eternity. These ceremonies reflect the Christian emphasis on the importance of family and eternal life. The sealing rooms are designed to create a sacred and intimate atmosphere for couples and their families.
Ordinance Rooms
The Adelaide Australia Temple has two ordinance rooms, where members participate in sacred ceremonies and make covenants with God. These rooms are designed to create a reverent and spiritual atmosphere, conducive to personal reflection and connection with the divine. The ordinances performed in these rooms are central to the faith's beliefs and practices.
Interesting Facts
Before the Adelaide Australia Temple was built, members of the Church in the area had to travel 15 to 20 hours each way to the Sydney Australia Temple.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Adelaide Australia Temple was held on the same day as the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Louisville Kentucky Temple and Veracruz Mexico Temple.
The groundbreaking service was held in the nearby Firle Chapel under heavy rain. As the congregation proceeded to the temple site to break ground, the rain stopped and dark clouds gave way to blue skies.
During the public open house, over 49,000 people visited the temple.
The Adelaide Australia Temple was dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley during an 11-day trip to Asia and the Pacific, where he dedicated four temples.
The exterior of the temple is made of snow-white granite from Campolonghi, Italy.
Census statistics show that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the fastest-growing Christian faith in Australia.
The Adelaide Australia Temple serves Latter-day Saints in southern Australia.
Common Questions
What is the purpose of the Adelaide Australia Temple?
The Adelaide Australia Temple is a sacred space for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, used for special occasions and ordinances that strengthen faith in Jesus Christ and unite families for eternity.
Where is the Adelaide Australia Temple located?
The Adelaide Australia Temple is located at 53-59 Lower Portrush Road in Marden, South Australia.
When was the Adelaide Australia Temple dedicated?
The Adelaide Australia Temple was dedicated on June 15, 2000, by President Gordon B. Hinckley.
What are some of the ordinances performed in the temple?
Ordinances performed in the temple include baptisms for the dead, endowments, and sealings, which are central to the faith's belief in the eternal nature of families and individual spiritual growth.
Is the Adelaide Australia Temple currently open?
As of May 8, 2026, the Adelaide Australia Temple is temporarily closed for extended maintenance.
Featured Stories
Announcement and Anticipation
March 17, 1999
The announcement of the Adelaide Australia Temple on March 17, 1999, by the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was met with immense joy and anticipation by members in southern Australia. For years, faithful Latter-day Saints had traveled long distances to the Sydney Australia Temple to participate in sacred ordinances. The prospect of having a temple closer to home brought a sense of profound gratitude and excitement.
The announcement not only signified the growth and strength of the Church in the region but also represented a significant blessing for families who would now have easier access to the blessings of the temple. The news spread quickly through the community, fostering a spirit of unity and renewed dedication among the members. The anticipation of the temple's construction and dedication became a central focus for the Latter-day Saints in Adelaide and the surrounding areas.
Source: The Church News
Groundbreaking Amidst the Rain
May 29, 1999
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Adelaide Australia Temple, held on May 29, 1999, was a memorable event marked by heavy rain. Despite the inclement weather, over 500 people gathered to witness the commencement of the temple's construction. Vaughn J. Featherstone presided over the ceremony, emphasizing the sacred nature of the undertaking and the blessings it would bring to the community.
As the congregation proceeded to the temple site to break ground, an unexpected moment occurred: the rain ceased, and the dark clouds parted, revealing patches of blue sky. This remarkable change in weather was seen by many as a sign of divine favor, reinforcing their faith and commitment to the project. The groundbreaking ceremony became a symbol of hope and perseverance, demonstrating the community's unwavering dedication to building a house of the Lord in Adelaide.
Source: The Church News
Dedication and Lasting Impact
June 15, 2000
The dedication of the Adelaide Australia Temple on June 15, 2000, by President Gordon B. Hinckley, marked a significant milestone for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Australia. The dedication was the culmination of years of planning, sacrifice, and faith, and it brought a sense of profound spiritual fulfillment to the members. President Hinckley's presence added a special significance to the event, as he dedicated the temple for its sacred purposes.
The dedication of the Adelaide Australia Temple has had a lasting impact on the Latter-day Saint community in southern Australia. It has provided a sacred space for members to draw closer to God, strengthen their families, and participate in eternal ordinances. The temple has become a beacon of faith and a symbol of the Church's commitment to serving its members in the region, fostering a spirit of unity and dedication that continues to bless the lives of countless individuals and families.
Source: The Church News
Timeline
Elder McConkie Prophesies Future Temples
At the groundbreaking of the Sydney Australia Temple, Elder Bruce R. McConkie foreshadowed the building of temples in Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.
MilestoneTemple Announced
The First Presidency of the Church announced the intent to construct a temple in Adelaide.
MilestoneGroundbreaking Ceremony
A groundbreaking ceremony was held, presided over by Vaughn J. Featherstone, with over 500 people in attendance despite heavy rain.
component.timeline.groundbreakingPublic Open House
A public open house was held, attracting over 49,000 visitors to tour the newly constructed temple.
EventTemple Dedication
The Adelaide Australia Temple was dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley.
DedicationTemporary Closure Due to Pandemic
The Adelaide Australia Temple was temporarily closed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
component.timeline.closedClosure for Extended Maintenance
The temple is closed for extended maintenance to ensure its continued operation and preservation.
RenovationHistory by Decade
1980s
In the 1980s, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints experienced significant growth in Australia. This growth laid the foundation for future temples in the country. At the groundbreaking of the Sydney Australia Temple, Elder Bruce R. McConkie prophesied the construction of additional temples in major Australian cities, including Adelaide. This prophecy instilled hope and anticipation among the members in Adelaide, who looked forward to the day when they would have their own temple.
1990s
The 1990s marked a period of preparation and anticipation for the Latter-day Saints in Adelaide. As Church membership continued to grow, the need for a temple in the region became increasingly apparent. The announcement of the Adelaide Australia Temple in 1999 was a momentous occasion, fulfilling Elder McConkie's prophecy and signaling a new era of spiritual growth and opportunity for the members in southern Australia.
2000s
The 2000s were defined by the construction and dedication of the Adelaide Australia Temple. The groundbreaking ceremony in 1999 and the subsequent dedication in 2000 were significant events that brought the community together. The temple quickly became a central part of the religious lives of Latter-day Saints in the region, providing a sacred space for worship, service, and personal growth.
2010s
During the 2010s, the Adelaide Australia Temple continued to serve as a beacon of faith and a center of spiritual activity for Latter-day Saints in southern Australia. The temple provided opportunities for members to participate in sacred ordinances, strengthen their families, and deepen their connection with God. The temple also played a role in fostering a sense of community and unity among the members in the region.
2020s
The 2020s brought new challenges and changes to the Adelaide Australia Temple. The temple temporarily closed in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, impacting the ability of members to attend in person. In 2025, the temple closed for extended maintenance. Despite these challenges, the Latter-day Saint community in Adelaide remained resilient, finding ways to stay connected and continue their spiritual growth.
Architecture & Facilities
The Adelaide Australia Temple exhibits a classic modern design, characterized by its clean lines, elegant proportions, and functional layout. The architectural style reflects a blend of contemporary aesthetics and traditional temple design principles, creating a sacred space that is both inviting and reverent. The temple's design emphasizes simplicity and harmony, allowing the focus to remain on the spiritual experiences within.
Building Materials
Exterior
The exterior of the Adelaide Australia Temple is constructed of snow-white granite from Campolonghi, Italy. This high-quality material was chosen for its durability, beauty, and symbolic representation of purity and strength. The granite's pristine appearance enhances the temple's majestic presence and reflects its sacred nature.
Interior
The interior of the Adelaide Australia Temple is designed with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating high-quality materials and finishes. The interior spaces are adorned with elegant furnishings, intricate woodwork, and beautiful artwork, creating a reverent and inspiring atmosphere for worship and reflection. The interior design reflects the temple's sacred purpose and the eternal significance of the ordinances performed within.
Interior Features
Baptistry
The baptistry is a sacred space within the temple where baptisms for the dead are performed. This ordinance is a central part of Latter-day Saint beliefs, representing the opportunity for all to receive the saving ordinances of the gospel. The baptistry is designed to create a reverent and spiritual atmosphere for those participating in this important work.
Sealing Rooms
Sealing rooms are dedicated to the performance of marriage ceremonies that unite families for eternity. These rooms are designed to create a sacred and intimate atmosphere for couples and their families. The sealing rooms are adorned with beautiful artwork and furnishings, reflecting the eternal significance of the covenants made within.
Ordinance Rooms
The Adelaide Australia Temple has two ordinance rooms, where members participate in sacred ceremonies and make covenants with God. These rooms are designed to create a reverent and spiritual atmosphere, conducive to personal reflection and connection with the divine. The ordinances performed in these rooms are central to the faith's beliefs and practices.
Temple Grounds
The Adelaide Australia Temple is set on 6.94 acres (2.81 hectares) of beautifully landscaped grounds. The grounds feature native trees, flowers, shrubs, and gathering plazas on each side of the building. The gardens provide a peaceful and serene environment for visitors and members to reflect and connect with nature.
Religious Significance
The Adelaide Australia Temple holds profound religious significance for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As a "House of the Lord," it is considered a sacred space set apart from the world, where members can draw closer to God and participate in sacred ordinances that have eternal implications. The temple is a symbol of faith, hope, and love, and it serves as a reminder of the eternal nature of families and the importance of individual spiritual growth.
The core spiritual purpose of the Adelaide Australia Temple is to provide a place where members can participate in sacred ordinances that are essential for their eternal progression. These ordinances include baptisms for the dead, endowments, and sealings, which are performed in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ and the restored gospel. The temple is a place of learning, covenant-making, and spiritual renewal, where members can strengthen their relationship with God and prepare for eternal life.
Sacred Ordinances
Baptisms for the Dead
Baptisms for the dead are performed in the temple as a vicarious ordinance for those who have passed away without the opportunity to be baptized in life. This practice reflects the belief that all individuals, regardless of when or where they lived, should have the chance to receive the saving ordinances of the gospel. The baptistry is a sacred space dedicated to this important work.
Endowments
The endowment is a sacred ordinance in which members make covenants with God and receive instruction on the plan of salvation. This ordinance is designed to help members understand their divine potential and prepare for eternal life. The endowment is a transformative experience that deepens their commitment to Jesus Christ and His teachings.
Sealings
Sealings are marriage ceremonies performed in the temple that unite families for eternity. These ceremonies reflect the emphasis on the importance of family and eternal life. The sealing rooms are designed to create a sacred and intimate atmosphere for couples and their families, symbolizing the eternal nature of their relationships.
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Sources & Research
Every fact on Temples.org is backed by verified Sources & Research. Each piece of information is rated by source tier and confidence level.
View All Sources (3)
| Field | Source | Tier | Retrieved |
|---|---|---|---|
| About & Historical Background | The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (opens in a new tab) | A | 2026-05-08 |
| Historical Timeline | churchofjesuschristtemples.org (opens in a new tab) | C | 2026-05-08 |
| Interesting Facts | churchofjesuschristtemples.org (opens in a new tab) | C | 2026-05-08 |