Angel Moroni statue returns to Salt Lake Temple
Apr 2, 2024, 11:26 AM | Updated: 4:22 pm
(The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
(The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)
SALT LAKE CITY — Crews have returned the angel Moroni statue to the top of the central east spire of the Salt Lake Temple, nearly four years after it was removed while the temple undergoes a major seismic and foundational upgrade.
Church officials said the statue’s placement marks a notable milestone toward the completion of the Salt Lake Temple renovation project.
“An important part of this project has been to strengthen the foundation of the temple,” said Presiding Bishop Gérald Caussé. “President Russell M. Nelson spoke to the world about the need to fortify our spiritual foundations in 2021 when he reminded us of the sacred use of the house of the Lord and said, ‘The temple lies at the center of strengthening our faith and spiritual fortitude because the Savior and His doctrine are the very heart of the temple. Everything taught in the temple, through instruction and through the Spirit, increases our understanding of Jesus Christ.’”
The statue was removed in May 2020 after it was damaged in the magnitude 5.7 Magna earthquake.
Melina Ruesch, from Bountiful, came to watch with her kids and some neighbors.
“Watching this renovation has been exciting and incredible, and it just feels like a special piece of it to have angel Moroni back on the temple. It was totally worth the trip; my kids were excited to come see this monumental event,” Ruesch said.
Camille Prisbrey came from Layton to see the return of the statue.
“It’s such a landmark for temples, and everyone loves the angel Moroni. We love being able to see the angel, and it reminds us of the good news that the gospel of Jesus Christ can bring to people in their lives,” Prisbrey said.
