Amid the glitz, glamour and lights of one of the biggest tourist capitals in the world, Latter-day Saints say the Las Vegas Nevada Temple has been a spiritual oasis in the desert, fulfilling words spoken by President Hinckley in the dedicatory prayer. as reported by the LDS Church News.
“Within its walls are to be tasted the refreshing waters of living and eternal truth,” President Hinckley said. “For all who enter the portals of thy house may this be an oasis of peace and life and light, in contrast with the clamor and evil and darkness of the world.”
In recognition of this milestone, here is a brief summary of the history of, interesting facts about and memorable experiences involving the 43rd temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Prelude to a temple
Mormon pioneers came to the Las Vegas area as early as 1855 and built a fort, according to the Deseret News' "2013 Church Almanac." In the years that followed, the construction of the railroad (1905) and Hoover Dam (1930s) contributed to steady growth in the community and the church. The first stake in Las Vegas was formed in 1954.