President Russell M. Nelson (center) arrives at the Deseret Peak Utah Temple for its dedication on Sunday, November 10, 2024. President Nelson is joined by Brian K. Taylor, General Authority Seventy(far left); Gary E. Stevenson, Quorum of the Twelve Apostles (left); Brook P. Hales, General Authority Seventy (right); and Kevin R. Duncan, General Authority Seventy (far right). | Church Newsroom
In an inspiring moment for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, President Russell M. Nelson, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, dedicated the Church’s 200th temple, the Deseret Peak Utah Temple.
Since becoming president in 2018, President Nelson has announced or dedicated an unprecedented number of temples, setting a pace of temple construction that has touched the lives of members globally.
The Deseret Peak Utah Temple dedication was a powerful moment not only for the attendees but for members worldwide who recognize President Nelson’s commitment to providing these spiritual sanctuaries.
During his remarks, President Nelson expressed gratitude and highlighted the significance of temples as places of peace and refuge. His dedication prayer offered blessings of faith, hope, and unity, reflecting his vision for the Church’s future and the spiritual strength it offers to individuals everywhere.
“When I contemplate the privilege of dedicating the Deseret Peak Utah Temple this weekend, I am filled with awe at all the Lord is doing for His people,” President Nelson said. “When I was born, there were just six operating temples in the Church. The Deseret Peak Temple will be the 200th in the world.
Temple chronology showing the temples in operation in 1924, when President Nelson was born. | ChurchofJesusChristTemples.org“Just think of it! It took the Church until the year 2000 to dedicate the first 100 temples, and now, just 24 years later, we are dedicating the second 100. The Lord is truly hastening His work. I am filled with gratitude for the Lord’s mercy in guiding us to bring temples closer to members of the Church throughout the world.”
This 200th temple is a testament to the Church’s mission to bring the blessings of the temple to as many people as possible. For members, President Nelson’s dedication of the Deseret Peak Utah Temple symbolizes both a spiritual achievement and a deeply personal invitation to experience the peace and joy temples provide.
Elder Gary E. Stevenson, who accompanied the prophet to the dedication, pointed out that once all the temples currently in construction or announced are completed, “95% of the members of the Church will live within 2 hours or 200km of the temple. That is something that to me is an indication of Heavenly Father’s love for his children and President Nelson’s love for each one of us.”
It’s remarkable to witness a centenarian prophet dedicating the 200th temple of The Church—a profound moment that speaks volumes about his strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication to his sacred calling.
At 100 years old, President Nelson’s energy and vision for the future of the Church are both inspiring and unprecedented, reflecting not only his personal commitment but also the faith that members have in his prophetic role. His longevity and vitality are seen by many as a testament to divine support, enabling him to lead, inspire, and guide the Church even as he reaches this milestone.
Latter-day Saints arrive at the Deseret Peak Utah Temple for a dedication ceremony on Sunday, November 10, 2024. | Church NewsroomChurch members worldwide continue to love, sustain, and follow President Nelson, despite his advanced years, demonstrating their confidence in the authority given to him as a prophet of God. His leadership, filled with compassion and a visionary approach, resonates deeply with both young and old, uniting generations in trust and admiration.
The dedication of the Deseret Peak Utah Temple symbolizes not just a structural milestone but a powerful statement of faith in President Nelson’s divine calling. It reflects members’ belief in the Lord’s guidance over His Church and in the continuing authority of prophets who are called to dedicate their lives to His service, no matter their age.
Visitors to the temple during its open house last month shared an appreciation for its unique beauty and the sense of peace they felt there. In an Instagram post, one visitor said, “Emotional experience touring the new Deseret peak temple. No words to describe how beautiful it is.”
Another post expressed, “I am grateful for temples and covenants that help me build my relationship with my Savior Jesus Christ. I love the powerful promises we receive in holy temples and the peace and hope they bring to my life.”
As the Deseret Peak Utah Temple opens its doors, members reflect on what it means to be part of this historic moment in the Church. It’s more than a milestone—it’s a call to draw closer to Christ and experience the temple’s blessings with gratitude and purpose.
This dedication invites each member to see how their faith and daily life can be strengthened through temple covenants and to look forward to the peace and renewal found within its sacred walls.
Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.
