Salt Lake Temple Renovation Nears Completion as First Presidency Offers Preview
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints previewed the nearly finished Salt Lake Temple renovation on May 8, 2026. The temple has been under restoration for several years. Church leaders say the project preserved the historic structure while upgrading its systems.
The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gave a preview of the Salt Lake Temple on May 8, 2026, as the long-running renovation project nears its end.
The temple has been closed for several years while workers restored the 19th-century structure and upgraded its mechanical and electrical systems. Church leaders say the project preserved the original architecture while making the building safer and more functional.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, acting president of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, spoke about the renovation in recent remarks. He compared the scaffolding used during construction to what he called "spiritual scaffolding," including parents, teachers, and commandments, that help people grow in faith.
The Salt Lake Temple sits at the center of Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake City. It is one of the most recognized buildings in the Latter-day Saint faith.
The church has not yet announced a reopening date or open house schedule for the public. Members and visitors have been directed to other temples in the region during the closure.
Earlier in May, the church also dedicated two new temples. President Henry B. Eyring dedicated the Lindon Utah Temple on May 3, and Elder Dale G. Renlund dedicated the Davao Philippines Temple the same day.
