Washington DC Temple

 When I joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1972, there were no temples east of the Mississippi River.  In 1974 a temple was dedicated in Washington DC., the first in the eastern part of the US and the 16th temple overall.  Today there are 172 operating temples, 49 under construction, and 61 announced.

Prior to the dedication, each temple is open to the public but afterwards only church members in good standing may go inside. 

On March 3, 2018, the Washington D.C. temple was closed for extensive renovation.  The building received considerable upgrades to its mechanical system and the finishes and furnishings were refreshed.  There were also changes made to the landscaping and a small addition to the exterior to enclose a new elevator system and stairs.  

The renovation was completed in 2020 but because of the pandemic the Open House and Dedication were delayed until 2022. 

Mary, Mark, Jackson and I were able to take a tour of the temple.  It is beautiful inside and out. You aren't allowed to take photos inside but if you are curious, photos of the interior and more information can be found here Washington DC Temple

I love my son-in-law but can you see where Jackson gets his aversion to photos??

Jackson did love the metro ride down to the temple and back.

Our children sing a song that starts with these words, "I love to see the temple".  Expresses my sentiments exactly.

'Each temple is a beacon of light and hope.  The temple, the House of the Lord, stands as a symbol of our faith in life after death as as a stepping stone to eternal life for us and our families.  The temple is a sacred and essential part of God's plan for our happiness, now and forever.'

Russel M. Nelson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.