A groundbreaking ceremony, to signify the beginning of construction, was held on August 23, 2021, conducted by Randall K. Bennett, a church general authority.
History
The temple was announced by Russell M. Nelson on April 5, 2020.[5] On January 20, 2021, the LDS Church announced the temple would be built on the 2000 block of Powell Road in Cranberry. This is a 5.8 acre site next to an existing church meetinghouse.[6]
Ground was broken for the temple on August 23, 2021, with Randall K. Bennett presiding. Local community leaders also attended.
With construction compete, a public open house was held from August 16, 2024, through August 31. The temple was dedicated on September 15, 2024, by Dieter F. Uchtdorf.[5]
Design and architecture
The temple's architecture reflects the cultural heritage of the Pittsburgh area and the spiritual significance to the church.
Site
The temple sits on a 5.8-acre plot, and the landscaping around the temple features flower gardens and grass fields.[5] These elements are designed to provide a tranquil setting to enhance the sacred atmosphere of the site.
Exterior
The structure stands 125 feet tall, constructed with granite cladding.[7] The exterior is characterized by a single central spire, chosen for its symbolic significance and alignment with temple traditions.[8] The design uses elements to reflect of both local culture and symbolism to the church.
Interior
The interior features a floral motif which uses the mountain laurel (Pennsylvania’s state flower) and the blossoms of the dogwood tree. The temple’s interior design also features patterned green and gold carpets, art glass windows, and crystal chandeliers.[9] The temple is centered around the celestial room, which is designed to foster a spiritually uplifting environment. The temple includes two ordinance rooms, two sealing rooms, and a baptistry,[8] each designed for ceremonial use.
Symbols
The design has elements representing Latter-day Saint symbolism to provide spiritual meaning to the temple's appearance and function. Symbolism is an important subject to church members, one of the most important being the celestial room which represents “coming into the presence of God the Father and Jesus Christ.”[9]
Cultural and community impact
The completion of the temple has been met with excitement from local church members.[10] The open house has been covered by local papers such as the Pittsburgh Magazine, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and the Butler Eagle.[7][11][10]
Temple presidents
The church's temples are directed by a temple president and matron, each serving for a term of three years. The president and matron oversee the administration of temple operations and provide guidance and training for both temple patrons and staff. The first temple president is James M. Jindra, with Elizabeth L. Jindra as matron.[5]
Admittance
On April 15, 2024, the church announced that a public open house would be held from August 16–31, 2024, (excluding Sundays).[12] The temple was dedicated by Dieter F. Uchtdorf on September 15, 2024.[13] Like all temples of the church, the [name of temple] is not used for Sunday worship services.[11] Like all the church's temples, it is not used for Sunday worship services. To members of the church, temples are regarded as sacred houses of the Lord. Once dedicated, only church members with a current temple recommend can enter for worship.[14]
