George Q. Cannon wrote of the great efforts to build the Kirtland Temple: "Nearly three years had been occupied in its construction; and during this time the saints had given of their substance and had toiled without ceasing to make a habitation fit for the ministration of angelic visitants and of the Holy One, Himself. . . ." (Life of Joseph Smith, p. 204.)
The Lord's approval of the Kirtland Temple was manifest by His appearance to accept the sacred edifice as His house. The Prophet Joseph described this most sacred event:"We saw the Lord standing upon the breastwork of the pulpit, before us; and under his feet was a paved work of pure gold, in color like amber. . . .
"[He saidT For behold, I have accepted this house, and my name shall be here; and I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house.
"Yea, I will appear unto my servants, and speak unto them with mine own voice, if my people will keep my commandments, and do not pollute this holy house.
"Yea the hearts of thousands and tens of thousands shall greatly rejoice in consequence of the blessings which shall be poured out, and the endowment with which my servants have been endowed in this house.
"And the fame of this house shall spread to foreign lands; and this is the beginning of the blessing which shall be poured out upon the heads of my people." (D&C 110:2, 7-10.)
