Elko Nevada Temple Dedication Promises Blessings for Saints in Northeastern Nevada

The Elko Nevada Temple is set to be dedicated on Sunday, October 12, 2025, marking a significant spiritual milestone for the Latter-day Saints in Northeastern Nevada. Elder Gary E. Stevenson from the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles will perform the dedication ceremony. This temple will become the third operating temple in the state, following Las Vegas (established in 1989) and Reno (established in 2000).

Location and Significance of the Elko Nevada Temple

The Elko Nevada Temple is situated in an area rich in gold mining, which plays a crucial role in the local economy. Erik Smith, a member of the Elko Nevada West Stake, highlighted the importance of the temple’s golden letters that read “Holiness to the Lord” and “The house of the Lord,” symbolizing the spiritual value of the temple that transcends material wealth.

Temple District Overview

The temple district spans across six counties, covering approximately 51,389 square miles, nearly 47% of Nevada’s total area. It serves four stakes and one district within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

• Counties Included: Elko, Humboldt, Lander, Pershing, White Pine, and Eureka.

The design of the Elko Nevada Temple incorporates motifs from the local environment. The desert globemallow, a native flower, features prominently in the decor, with geometric patterns reflecting the cultural heritage of local tribes, including the Paiute and Shoshone. Colors like orange, yellow, and green evoke the region’s natural landscape.

Historical Milestones

The announcement for the Elko Nevada Temple was made by President Russell M. Nelson on April 4, 2021. Following this announcement, the groundbreaking ceremony took place on May 7, 2022, presided over by Elder Paul B. Pieper, then-president of the North America Southwest Area.

Community Impact and Open House

The Elko community hosted an open house from August 30 to September 13, 2025. This event provided an opportunity for many, including individuals less active in the faith, to reconnect with their spiritual roots. Notably, one attendee who had been away from church for over 30 years expressed a desire to return to her faith after visiting the temple.

Local leaders, including Winnemucca Nevada Stake President Joseph H. Wadsworth, noted that the temple would alleviate travel burdens for members who previously had to journey long distances to worship. With this new temple, community members anticipate more frequent participation in church activities and services.

A Symbol of Hope and Blessings

Shawn and Beth Jones, co-chairs of the temple’s open house and dedication committee, remarked on the experience of witnessing the community’s response to the temple. They emphasized that this temple signifies a continuation of the Restoration and an acceleration of God’s work within the community.

Governor Joe Lombardo and various local officials toured the temple during the open house, showcasing its importance to the broader community. Around 20 leaders from other faith traditions also attended, expressing their support and appreciation for the temple as a symbol of faith.

Promises for the Saints in Northeastern Nevada

The Elko Nevada Temple serves as an inspiring testament of faith and hope for the Saints in the region. As Erik Smith articulated, the dedication of this temple brings a transformative spirit to Elko, empowering members to strengthen their faith and deepen their connections with God.

With its dedication on the horizon, the Elko Nevada Temple stands as a beacon of light, fulfilling promises of blessings for the Latter-day Saints in Northeastern Nevada.