Los Angeles California Temple

Visitor Insights

Visiting Los Angeles California Temple

Visitors to the Los Angeles California Temple are welcome to explore the beautifully landscaped grounds and the Visitors' Center, which offers insights into the temple's significance and the beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The atmosphere is one of reverence and peace, providing a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. Guests can expect to see meticulously maintained gardens, fountains, and family-themed statues, creating a serene environment for reflection.

Highlights

Explore the serene gardens and grounds.
Visit the Visitors' Center to learn about the temple's purpose.
Admire the unique Mayan-inspired architecture.

Things to Know

The temple itself is only open to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Dress modestly when visiting the grounds.
Photography inside the Visitors' Center may be restricted.

Tips for Your Visit

Plan Your Visit

Check the Visitors' Center hours before you go to ensure it is open.

About

The Los Angeles California Temple, a prominent landmark in the Westwood district, serves as a sacred space for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Dedicated in 1956, it stands as a testament to the enduring faith and commitment of the Latter-day Saint community in Southern California. Its architecture, inspired by Mayan designs, reflects a unique blend of ancient and modern influences, making it a distinctive and recognizable structure.

As part of the Abrahamic tradition, the temple emphasizes covenants and sacred ordinances that connect believers to God. The temple's purpose is to provide a place where individuals can draw closer to God through participation in sacred ceremonies that unite families for eternity. These ordinances are central to the Latter-day Saint faith and provide a pathway for spiritual growth and eternal progression.

The temple's location on a prominent hill offers a sense of peace and reverence amidst the bustling city. The meticulously maintained grounds, adorned with gardens and fountains, provide a tranquil setting for reflection and spiritual renewal. The Los Angeles California Temple stands as a symbol of hope and a reminder of the eternal nature of God's love for all His children.

Religion

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Status

Operating

Dedicated

March 11, 1956

Architect

Edward O. Anderson

Style

Mayan-inspired

Gallery

Symbolic Elements

The temple's exterior features intricate carvings, each rich with spiritual meaning:

Angel Moroni Statue

The 16-foot statue of the angel Moroni stands atop the temple, symbolizing the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Moroni was an ancient prophet from the Book of Mormon who revealed the location of the golden plates to Joseph Smith. The statue faces east, signifying the anticipation of Christ's return.

Mayan-Inspired Architecture

The temple's architecture is patterned after Mayan designs, reflecting a unique blend of ancient and modern influences. This design choice symbolizes the connection between ancient civilizations and the restored gospel, emphasizing the universality of God's plan for His children. The geometric patterns and stepped facade evoke a sense of timelessness and spiritual ascent.

Mo-Sai Stone

The exterior of the temple is covered with 146,000 square feet of Mo-Sai stone facing, a mixture of crushed quartz and white Portland cement quarried in Utah and Nevada. This durable and aesthetically pleasing material symbolizes the strength and enduring nature of the temple and the covenants made within its walls. The white color represents purity and holiness.

Celestial Room

The Celestial Room represents the highest degree of glory in the afterlife, symbolizing peace and communion with God. This room is designed to evoke a sense of reverence and spiritual connection, inviting patrons to reflect on their eternal potential and the blessings of the temple. The serene atmosphere promotes contemplation and personal revelation.

Progressive-Style Ordinance Rooms

The temple features progressive-style ordinance rooms with hand-painted murals depicting the Creation, the Garden of Eden, the world, and the Terrestrial room, ultimately leading to the Celestial Room. These murals symbolize humanity's journey toward eternal life and exaltation, key tenets of Latter-day Saint theology. The progressive design emphasizes the step-by-step nature of spiritual growth.

Baptistry

The baptistry is a sacred space where baptisms for the dead are performed, symbolizing the opportunity for all of God's children to receive the blessings of the gospel. This ordinance reflects the belief in the eternal nature of families and the importance of extending salvation to those who have passed on. The font is often adorned with symbolic imagery related to water and purification.

Gardens and Grounds

The meticulously maintained gardens and grounds surrounding the temple provide a tranquil setting for reflection and spiritual renewal. The gardens feature a variety of plants, flowers, and fountains, symbolizing the beauty and abundance of God's creations. The peaceful atmosphere invites visitors to contemplate the divine and find solace in nature.

Sealing Rooms

The sealing rooms are where marriages are performed, uniting families for eternity. These sacred spaces symbolize the eternal nature of love and commitment, reflecting the belief that families can be together forever through the power of the priesthood. The rooms are designed to create a sense of intimacy and reverence, emphasizing the importance of eternal relationships.

Interesting Facts

The Los Angeles California Temple was the first temple built in California.

At the time of its construction, it was the largest temple of the Church.

It was the first temple to include a priesthood assembly room and angel Moroni statue following the Salt Lake Temple.

The presentation of the endowment was originally delivered by live acting in the Los Angeles California Temple. It was the last temple designed for live acting.

The Los Angeles California Temple was the first temple explicitly designed for automobile accessibility.

During the open house in 1956, almost 700,000 people visited the temple.

Members in the temple district donated $1.6 million to build the temple.

The spire is 257 feet high, making it taller than the Salt Lake Temple's tallest spire.

The angel Moroni statue was sculpted with Native American features and wears a Mayan-style cloak.

The temple sits on a hill, the highest point between Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean, and can be seen from Catalina Island and ships 25 miles out at sea.

Open House Visitors (1955-1956)

0 feet

Spire Height

Year Dedicated

Common Questions

What is the purpose of the Los Angeles California Temple?

The Los Angeles California Temple serves as a sacred space for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to participate in religious ordinances, strengthen their connection with God, and unite families for eternity. It is a place of peace, reflection, and spiritual growth.

Can anyone visit the Los Angeles California Temple?

The temple itself is open only to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who are in good standing. However, the grounds and Visitors' Center are open to the public, providing an opportunity for anyone to learn more about the temple and the Church.

What is the significance of the angel Moroni statue on top of the temple?

The angel Moroni statue symbolizes the restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Moroni was an ancient prophet from the Book of Mormon who revealed the location of the golden plates to Joseph Smith. The statue represents the spreading of the gospel message to the world.

What are the architectural features of the Los Angeles California Temple?

The Los Angeles California Temple's architecture was patterned after Mayan architecture by Edward O. Anderson. The exterior is covered with Mo-Sai stone, and the interior includes a baptistry, celestial room, ordinance rooms with murals, and sealing rooms. The temple is designed to withstand earthquakes.

When was the Los Angeles California Temple dedicated?

The Los Angeles California Temple was dedicated from March 11-14, 1956, by David O. McKay. At the time of its dedication, it was the largest temple of the Church.

Featured Stories

Dedication of the Los Angeles California Temple

March 11, 1956

The dedication of the Los Angeles California Temple was a momentous occasion for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Southern California. Presided over by David O. McKay, the dedication services spanned four days, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of the event. The temple, at the time the largest of the Church, became a beacon of faith and a symbol of the growing Latter-day Saint community in the region.

The dedication ceremonies were filled with prayers, hymns, and sermons, all focused on the sacred purpose of the temple. Attendees felt a profound sense of reverence and gratitude for the blessings of the temple, which would provide a place for sacred ordinances and covenants. The dedication marked a new chapter in the history of the Church in California, solidifying its presence and influence in the area.

Source: The Church News, March 1956

The Open House: Welcoming the Community

December 19, 1955 – February 18, 1956

Prior to its dedication, the Los Angeles California Temple opened its doors to the public for an extensive open house. This event provided an opportunity for people of all faiths to tour the temple and learn about its purpose and significance. The response was overwhelming, with nearly 700,000 visitors passing through the temple's doors during the two-month period.

The open house was a remarkable success, fostering goodwill and understanding between the Latter-day Saint community and the broader public. Visitors were impressed by the temple's beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere, and the warm hospitality of the volunteers who guided the tours. The event helped to dispel misconceptions about the Church and build bridges of friendship and respect.

Source: Church History Archives

Renovations and Seismic Upgrades: Preserving a Sacred Landmark

2005-2006

In the mid-2000s, the Los Angeles California Temple underwent significant renovations to ensure its structural integrity and enhance its facilities. A major focus of the project was a seismic overhaul, designed to protect the temple from earthquakes, a common occurrence in Southern California. The renovations also included updates to the baptistry and other areas of the temple.

The renovations were completed in 2006, and the temple was rededicated, reaffirming its role as a sacred landmark in the community. The project demonstrated the Church's commitment to preserving its temples for future generations, ensuring that they remain places of spiritual strength and refuge. The rededication was a joyous occasion, celebrated by Latter-day Saints throughout the region.

The temple reopens after renovations and celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Dedication

2010

Visitors' Center Renovated

The Visitors' Center is renovated to enhance the visitor experience.

Renovation

2012

Fire Damages Adjacent Building

A fire damages an adjacent building under construction that was to house the mission president.

Event

History by Decade

1920s — Early Aspirations

In the 1920s, local Church leaders in Southern California began to express a desire for a temple in the Los Angeles area. The growing membership in the region recognized the need for a dedicated space where they could participate in sacred ordinances and strengthen their connection with God. These early aspirations laid the foundation for the eventual construction of the Los Angeles California Temple.

1930s — Announcement and Land Acquisition

On March 6, 1937, Church President Heber J. Grant announced the construction of a temple in Los Angeles. This announcement was met with great excitement and anticipation by Latter-day Saints in the region. The Church subsequently purchased 24.23 acres from the Harold Lloyd Motion Picture Company, providing a suitable site for the temple.

1940s — World War II Delay

The onset of World War II in the 1940s brought significant challenges and delays to the temple project. Resources were diverted to the war effort, and construction plans were put on hold. Despite these setbacks, the faith and determination of the Latter-day Saint community remained strong, and they looked forward to the time when the temple could be built.

1950s — Construction and Dedication

In the early 1950s, construction began in earnest on the Los Angeles California Temple. The groundbreaking ceremony was held on September 22, 1951, presided over by David O. McKay. The temple was designed with unique Mayan-inspired architecture, reflecting a blend of ancient and modern influences. The temple was dedicated from March 11-14, 1956, by David O. McKay, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Church in California.

1960s–1970s — Growth and Service

Following its dedication, the Los Angeles California Temple became a center of spiritual activity and service for Latter-day Saints in the region. The temple provided a place for sacred ordinances, including baptisms for the dead, endowments, and sealings, strengthening families and connecting them to God. The temple also served as a gathering place for members to worship and learn together.

1980s — Refurbishment and Anniversary

In 1981, the Los Angeles California Temple was refurbished for 10 weeks, enhancing its facilities and appearance. Patrons celebrated the temple's 25th anniversary with 36 continuous hours of temple service, demonstrating their deep appreciation for the blessings of the temple. The refurbishment ensured that the temple would continue to serve as a sacred space for future generations.

1990s–2000s — Renovations and Updates

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Los Angeles California Temple underwent further renovations and updates to improve its functionality and accessibility. In 2003, the temple reverted to a progressive-style presentation of the endowment and completely renovated the Terrestrial room. In 2005, the temple closed for renovations, including a seismic overhaul and redesign of the baptistry.

2010s–Present — Continued Service

In the 2010s and beyond, the Los Angeles California Temple has continued to serve as a vital center of faith and service for Latter-day Saints in Southern California. The temple has hosted countless visitors and provided a place for sacred ordinances, strengthening families and connecting them to God. The temple stands as a testament to the enduring faith and commitment of the Latter-day Saint community in the region.

Architecture & Facilities

The Los Angeles California Temple showcases a unique architectural style inspired by Mayan designs, blending ancient and modern elements to create a distinctive and recognizable structure. The temple's exterior is characterized by geometric patterns, stepped facades, and a towering central spire, reflecting a sense of timelessness and spiritual ascent. The use of Mo-Sai stone facing adds to the temple's grandeur and durability.