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Two recently added statues have enhanced the Temple Square experience in Salt Lake City. The first, "Joseph Smith Receives the Plates," was created by Leroy Transfield and is situated near the Priesthood restoration monuments and the Seagull monument. This statue captures the moment Joseph Smith received the gold plates from the Angel Moroni on September 22, 1827, a significant event in the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The placement of another statue, "Five Wise Virgins," was celebrated on April 2, 2025. It is located west of the Relief Society Building. Since September 2024, a total of seven statues — including four new additions and three refurbished pieces — have been installed within the Church Headquarters grounds, with more expected in the future.
Inside the historic Salt Lake Temple, restoration work continues. Teams of artisans are painstakingly restoring various elements to preserve the temple’s historical design while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. This includes hand-painted ceilings, gilded moldings, and intricate wood paneling that are being carefully restored or replicated. Techniques such as reapplying gold leaf, adding stencil designs, and repairing aged wood elements are being utilized by the restoration crews.
Temple Square welcomes visitors with seasonal attractions, including vibrant greenery and floral displays, as well as events like daily organ recitals and live performances. The International Art Competition has returned to the Church History Museum, showcasing 150 art pieces by Latter-day Saint artists from around the world. This exhibition is open to the public and will run through January 2026.
Temples are considered the most sacred places of worship by Latter-day Saints, distinct from church meetinghouses where the public can attend Sunday services and weekday activities. The primary function of temples is to facilitate sacred ceremonies for faithful church members, such as eternal marriages and proxy baptisms for deceased ancestors.
