Invitation: “Run, Don’t Walk” to the Deseret Peak Temple Open House

In the mid-1960s, Charlie spent his Friday nights (when Tooele didn’t have a football or basketball game at home) eating Nickel candy bars while strolling the halls and occasionally catching a movie at the Ritz Theater.

A movie preview caught his attention: “Run, not walk, to see Walk, don’t run.” The film was a 1966 romantic comedy by Cary Grant set during the Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

As the clock approaches Saturday, October 19th, we encourage you to walk – not walk – to the open house at Deseret Peak Temple. Simply Google “Deseret Peak Temple Open House,” click “Reserve,” select tickets, and choose a date and time.

When you arrive at the temple, you will notice the beautiful location of the temple. The gypsum fiber concrete blends perfectly into the surroundings. The 182-foot-tall building sits on a hill and is a beacon in our valley, beckoning us to come by and take a look. It is truly the house of the Lord.

As we entered the temple, both of us were inspired by the interior design. We looked at each other and asked silently: “This is in Tooele?”

Although Deseret Peak shares the same architectural layout as Orem, Taylorsville and Pocatello, the interior design and amenities are unique to Tooele Valley. Lupins and cliff roses – both flowers native to the Stansbury Mountains – can be found in detail throughout. Janna was simply overwhelmed by the beauty of the colorful carpets. Cliff roses and lupins are found in the carvings of the doors, stained glass windows, walls, ceilings, light fixtures and railings. If you pay attention to the details, they are just everywhere.

One of the most impressive features are the stained glass windows. We were there at sunset and as we exited the temple and looked at the windows; they seemed to sparkle like diamonds. The light is reflected differently throughout the day.

As you stroll through the temple you will see beautiful paintings of our Savior and Lord. At almost every step you see different scenes from the life of Jesus and his work.

Our niece Cindy Palmer, who was greeting us at the front door, invited our grandson Louden to count the number of paintings he had seen of Jesus. The eight-year-old took her challenge to heart and identified 33 paintings of the Lord. He was excited to go back after the tour and tell her about his findings.

You will also see several paintings by local artists that are unique to our beautiful valley. Charlie’s favorite scene is Deseret Peak. We have hiked to the highest point in Tooele County several times and this painting captures the breathtaking beauty found there.

The open day explains the purpose of temples and what happens inside. It helps clarify any misunderstandings some may have. Volunteers can be found in a tent on the north side to answer any questions.

The grounds are carefully landscaped with native flowers, plants and trees. All are welcome there to reflect on and contemplate God’s wondrous creations.

Thousands of volunteers, led by Richard Droubay and his committee, make this an unforgettable experience.

We urge you to come as you are. Bring your friends, family and neighbors. Please come and see.

Janna and Charlie Roberts are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and live in Stansbury Park.