Salt Lake City Visit - Temple Pictures

In January I spent several weeks in Salt Lake City visiting family, friends, and attending two genealogy conferences. I like taking pictures of the temple. I wish there were a way to capture the significance of the work and service that take place in temples, Houses of the Lord. 

Temple Square is comprised of 35 acres in the center of Salt Lake City. The Salt Lake Temple was constructed over a period of 40 years. It is one of 136 operating temples throughout the world. 15 more are under construction and 15 more have been announced. 

Holiness to the Lord

The House of the Lord

"Throughout history, the Lord has commanded His people to build temples. Temples are literally houses of the Lord. They are holy places of worship." In temples we learn about who we are, where we came from, and why we are here on earth - and what comes next. In temples individuals make sacred promises with God. See more here. 

Moroni is atop most LDS temples. Moroni is the prophet who compiled the ancient records which were translated and called the Book of Mormon. Moroni is shown with a trumpet to symbolize announcing "the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people." (Revelation 14: 6)

Looking into reflecting pond in front of temple

These next photos are taken from the 10th floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. I like the way the appearance of the temple changes as the light dwindles at the end of the day.

The temple looks massive, solid, otherworldly, grounded - a reminder of reaching heavenward and of making covenants with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ - and a whole host of feelings that are difficult to articulate. A temple and all that occurs within are reminders of and links to the other side. 

This night was clear and we could see the mountains distant in the valley.

Interesting variety of rooftops in these scenes  

I am thankful there are places where we can step out of the hustle and bustle of the world and focus on who we are, why we're here, and where we are going. This life is a time to learn and prepare for all that comes next. With the busyness of earth life, it is easy to lose track of the spiritual part of our being - our divine heritage and purpose.