Latter-day Saints pride themselves on putting forth their very best for temples of the Lord, and one visitor took notice.
Following the praise from The Philadelphia Inquirer about the new Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple's open house, the same publication shared an opinion letter from D. J. McElroy, entitled "Mormon Temple Striking and Surprising."
McElroy began his letter to The Philadelphia Inquirer, "I would like to thank the leaders of the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple for allowing nonbelievers to tour their magnificent new building." While he is not a member of the Church, he noted "[the] attention to detail and ultra-superior workmanship," describing it as if it was "from another time" while the inside looked like something that belonged in a "Fortune 500 headquarters and a five-star hotel."
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"Every molding joint, stained-glass window lead, and floor tile showed perfect craftsmanship of a caliber that is difficult to achieve, regardless of the amount spent," he continued.
McElroy also praised the tour guides, who were "exceptionally courteous and knowledgeable about the faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The tours were wonderfully organized and an amazing opportunity to learn."
Not the first to admire the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple, The Philadelphia Inquirer also featured an article highlighting information about the new temple, noting the details of the artwork and history and referencing what Church members believe.
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Aside from press tours, the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple opened to the public for tours on August 10 through September 9. Open for members and nonmembers alike, Mormon Newsroom shared a photo of Amish visitors touring the temple on Instagram.
When The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints builds a new temple, the sacred building is opened for public tours. All are invited to attend this open house, which usually lasts a few weeks. After that, the temple is formally dedicated and is open only to Church members who are actively engaged in the faith. Here, a group of Amish visitors wait in line to tour the new Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple. #PhillyLDSTemple A photo posted by Mormon Newsroom (@mormonnewsroom) on Aug 10, 2016 at 12:37pm PDT
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Following the open house, President Henry B. Eyring dedicated the Philadelphia Pennsylvania Temple on September 18, 2016.