The Angel Moroni is arguably the most recognizable symbol of Mormons in the world. It's rather fitting, given the important role Moroni played in the church's history. Perched atop nearly every LDS temple, the golden statue blows a trumpet outward, symbolic of the restored gospel being preached to all nations.
Perhaps because of this significance, a crowd gathered in Wyoming yesterday to witness something unique--the statue's placement atop the temple currently under construction in Star Valley. The temple, which was announced by President Monson during the October 2011 general conference, has been under construction for the last year. It will be dedicated on October 30th of this year, making it the Church's 154th operating temple.
The massive statue of Moroni stands 13 feet 8 inches tall, weighs about 350 pounds, and is completely plated in 22-karat gold leaf. Check out these amazing photographs from Mormon Newsroom!
[For more on the Angel Moroni statue, visit here, here, here, and here!]