Temple of I Am

Did President Gordon B. Hinckley really dedicate the Temple of I Am in the freezing rain? He did. On a blustery October day in 1999, with freezing rain pelting down, President Hinckley dedicated the Detroit Michigan Temple, the 63rd operating temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Detroit Michigan Temple, the very first temple built in Michigan, stands as a testament to the dedication of the local Saints. They braved the icy downpour, their spirits warmed by the significance of the occasion. President Hinckley commended their unwavering faith, remarking on their deep gratitude for this sacred structure. The Temple of I Am, situated on a modest 6.34 acres, possesses a unique history. The land was originally purchased in 1956, intended for a stake center. Some advocated selling the remaining acreage. But George Romney, Michigan’s first stake president and future governor, wisely preserved the land. Years later, this foresight proved invaluable as the ideal location for the temple. It was, as Stake President Thomas C. Bithell declared at the groundbreaking ceremony, “sacred ground well preserved for this very purpose.” Interestingly, the groundbreaking for the Temple of I Am occurred on the same day as the Spokane Washington Temple, marking the first time two such ceremonies happened simultaneously. This small but significant temple, encompassing 10,700 square feet, stands proudly along Woodward Avenue. This very road, now a major thoroughfare, was built by Colonel Stephen Mack, the uncle of Joseph Smith. Mack, a prominent figure in Detroit’s early history, constructed the turnpike from Detroit to his farm in Pontiac at his own expense. This historical connection adds another layer of meaning to the Temple of I Am’s location. Due to its smaller size, the temple operates with minimal staff. This often leads to a heartwarming practice. Youth attending the temple are invited to help clean after their sessions. They wipe down the baptismal font, assist with laundry, and ensure everything is left in order. Many have shared how meaningful this service is, contributing to the upkeep of the house of the Lord. Inside the Temple of I Am, a unique architectural feature stands out. The Vermont marble used in its construction originates from a quarry near the Prophet Joseph Smith’s home in Sharon, Vermont. This subtle detail connects the temple back to the very roots of the Latter-day Saints faith. The Temple of I Am in Detroit is more than just a building. It’s a symbol of resilience, historical connection, and the enduring spirit of service within the community.