Visitors to Temple Square can now see three new sculptures depicting meaningful moments from the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
The new artwork was installed on July 15 and 16, 2026, as the extensive renovation of the Salt Lake Temple moves into its final stages. The sculptures are part of a broader effort to make Temple Square a place where visitors from every background can learn about the Savior and experience moments of peace and reflection.
Three Moments From the Savior’s Ministry
The newly installed sculptures depict three familiar New Testament scenes:
- Jesus Christ with the Woman at the Well
- Jesus Christ and Mary at the Tomb
- Jesus Christ Ordains Apostles
Each scene highlights a different aspect of the Savior’s ministry.
The woman at the well reminds visitors of Christ’s willingness to speak with and minister to people who may feel overlooked or excluded.
Mary’s encounter with the risen Savior at the tomb points to the hope of the Resurrection.
The ordination of the Apostles reflects Jesus Christ’s work of calling and preparing disciples to carry His message throughout the world.
Rather than functioning only as decoration, the sculptures are intended to help visitors think more deeply about the life, teachings and mission of Jesus Christ.
More Sculptures Are Coming
The Church has also announced that two additional sculptures will be installed at Temple Square in the coming weeks.
They will portray:
- Jesus Christ with Mary and Martha
- Jesus Christ Blessing the Children
Once these pieces are installed, Temple Square will feature 12 newly added sculptures.
The artwork will stand alongside several restored historic monuments, including sculptures representing the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood and the well-known Seagull Monument.
Together, the new and restored pieces will create a visual journey through stories of faith, revelation, service and the ministry of Jesus Christ.
A Renewed Experience at Temple Square
The sculptures are only one part of the changing Temple Square experience.
Visitors can also explore restored gardens, new gathering spaces, exhibits and the recently opened Temple Square Visitors’ Center. These areas have been designed to welcome people of different faiths and backgrounds while keeping Jesus Christ at the center of the experience.
The renewed grounds will provide places for visitors to pause, gather with family members, learn about the purpose of temples and reflect on the gospel of Jesus Christ.
For many people, Temple Square has long been associated with Church history. The latest changes appear intended to connect that history more directly with the Savior’s life and teachings.
The Salt Lake Temple Renovation Nears Completion
Construction of the original Salt Lake Temple began in 1853. The building took 40 years to complete and was dedicated in 1893.
The current renovation has included major structural and seismic improvements, extensive interior restoration and significant changes to the surrounding grounds.
The project has been closely followed by Church members around the world, especially because the Salt Lake Temple is one of the most recognizable buildings associated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Church says the historic renovation is now entering its final stages.
A Rare Opportunity to Enter the Temple
After the renovation is completed, the public will be invited to tour the interior of the Salt Lake Temple before it is rededicated.
This will be only the second public open house in the temple’s 134-year history.
Reservations for the Salt Lake Temple Celebration are scheduled to become available on September 1, 2026.
Public tours are planned from April 5 through October 1, 2027.
The extended open-house period will allow visitors from around the world to see the restored interior and learn more about why temples are sacred to Latter-day Saints.
Guests will also be invited to explore the artwork, gardens, music, exhibits and other experiences available throughout Temple Square.
Keeping Jesus Christ at the Center
Although much of the attention surrounding the project has focused on construction, engineering and historic preservation, the new sculptures communicate the deeper purpose of the renewed Temple Square.
They direct attention toward Jesus Christ.
The scenes show the Savior teaching individuals, comforting those who mourn, blessing children and preparing disciples to serve. They invite visitors to consider not only what happened during Christ’s mortal ministry, but also what His example may mean in their own lives.
As the Salt Lake Temple renovation approaches completion, Temple Square is becoming both a restored historic landmark and a renewed place of worship, learning and reflection centered on the Savior.
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Official source: Temple Square Renovation Update: July 2026 — Church Newsroom