Nestled in the charming hills of northeastern Ohio, this "House of the Lord" stands as a vivid reminder that Kirtland was once home to some of the 19th century's most successful community builders. Inspired by the beliefs and practices of the earliest Christians, followers of Joseph Smith Jr. gathered in Kirtland and built their first temple between 1833 and 1836.
Using local sandstone and native timber from surrounding forests, the people worked together to construct what was then one of the largest buildings in northern Ohio. The Kirtland Temple stood at the center of community life for more than 2,000 believers by 1838. Within a year, all but 100 were gone. The Kirtland Temple is a National Historic Landmark. |
Projects at Kirtland Temple
New Kirtland Temple Visitor and Spiritual Formation Center: The Foundation pledged $1,000,000 to the Kirtland Temple Visitor and Spiritual Formation Center project. Additionally, in partnership with Community of Christ, the Foundation conducted the capital campaign for the $5,000,000 project. The new 12,900 square foot facility provides an appropriate setting in which to prepare the many thousands of visitors who make their way to Kirtland to explore and worship in the sacred space of the Temple.
Celebrating 175 Years of Kirtland Temple
The 2011 year marked the 175th anniversary of the Kirtland Temple dedication. A large event was held at the Kirtland Temple to commemorate the 175th anniversary on Sunday, March 27, 2011.