(Feature photo can be found here: Star Valley Temple Sunrise by Taylor Yardley)

During the October 2011 General Conference, President Monson announced what was to become the first temple in Wyoming – the Star Valley Temple. In his ever-present humor, President Monson remarked, “I think I’ll dedicate that one. There’s good fishing up there!”

The Star Valley Wyoming Temple was a fulfillment of a prophesy made by Elder Moses Thatcher of the Quorum of the Twelve. In this prophesy he described the temple bench: “A fine tract of bench land on the eastern portion of Afton will afford a beautiful site for a Temple hereafter to be built. This bench lies at the mouth of Swift Creek canyon, from whence flows a large stream of pure water, flanked on either side by a park of beautiful swamp pines, many of which are more than 100 feet high.”

The location of the temple is accurately described by Elder Thatcher, sitting below the beautiful surround mountains and hills, temple represents the spiritual heart and center of the Latter-day Saint community in Star Valley.

Before we share a few photos with you, here are a few facts that you probably didn’t know about the Star Valley Temple:

• The Star Valley Temple was the first temple built in Wyoming.
• It serves members in six stakes in Western Wyoming.
• The placement of the angel Moroni atop the spire took place exactly one year after the groundbreaking ceremony.
• Behind the recommend desk is an amazing stained-glass depiction of Jesus Christ. It is a refurbished piece originally created for a Presbyterian Church in New York City.
• The Star Valley Temple became the 154th temple in the world.

Star Valley Temple – Sunrise Northeast by Rory Wallwork

Star Valley Temple Sunrise by Taylor Yardley

Star Valley Temple – Sunset Glow by Rory Wallwork

Star Valley Temple – Evening Glow by Taylor Yardley

Star Valley Temple – Afternoon Light by Rory Wallwork

All of these beautiful Star Valley Temple pictures are available for purchase. You can find photo prints, canvas wraps, and framed photos in a large variety of sizes. If one of these above pictures caught your eye, just click on it!