Imagine a beacon of faith rising gracefully. That is the Toronto Ontario Temple. It stands as the 44th operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Its story began on April 7 1984 when the intent to build it was announced. Gordon B. Hinckley referenced it during a general conference session. This marked a significant moment. Canada became the first country outside the United States to have two temples within its borders.
Located in Brampton west of Downtown Toronto the temple sits on 13.4 acres. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on October 10 1987. Thomas S. Monson presided over this important event.
John Taylor an early leader immigrated to Toronto in 1832. Thomas S. Monson served as president of the church’s Canadian Mission. It was headquartered in Toronto from 1959 to 1962.
The Toronto Ontario Temple closed temporarily in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Renovations began on October 23 2023. They are projected to finish in December 2024. A rededication is scheduled for March 23 2025. Jeffrey R. Holland will lead the service.
Inspired by the Denver Colorado Temple the design received an award of excellence on October 4 1990. The temple’s architecture blends Ontario’s cultural heritage. It also shows the spiritual significance to the church.
The structure stands 171 feet tall. It has an area of 57982 square feet. Its exterior features a three-tiered tower. This sits on a square base. The spire points upwards. This symbolizes temple traditions.
Inside the Toronto Ontario Temple you’ll find four ordinance rooms. There are six sealing rooms. A baptistry and a celestial room also occupy the space. Each room serves a specific ceremonial purpose.
Latter-day Saint and Biblical symbolism enriches the temple’s design. The angel Moroni statue represents the restoration of Jesus Christ’s gospel. The temple’s eastward orientation symbolizes anticipation. It symbolizes the Second Coming.
Extensive renovations have been underway. Interior reconfigurations and improvements address increased patron demand. They also improve accessibility. The heating ventilation and air conditioning systems received major upgrades.
The main entry now features enhanced lighting. There is a new welcome area. The baptistry includes art glass. The oxen have been refreshed. Instruction rooms have new seating. The Celestial Room has improved wheelchair access.
During its open house 61285 visitors toured the Toronto Ontario Temple. Approximately 30 to 40 percent were members of other faiths.
Arnold N Roberts served as the first president of the Toronto Ontario Temple. Audrey C Roberts was the matron. Today Tyrone Wong is the president. Sui Y Wong serves as matron.
The Toronto Ontario Temple stands as a testament to faith. It exemplifies community engagement. It is a beacon. It welcomes all to learn and grow.