A temple will be built in Vernal, Utah, by renovating the nearly 87-year old Uintah Stake Tabernacle, which has been unoccupied for several years, the First Presidency announced.
On Sunday, Feb. 13, priesthood leaders in the Vernal Utah and Roosevelt Utah regions read a letter in sacrament meetings and at the Vernal Utah Glines Stake conference from the First Presidency announcing plans for the temple.In the letter, the First Presidency said that "after extensive study, we have concluded to use the shell of the building, restoring its original outside appearance, and creating within it, a beautiful temple."
The Vernal temple will be Utah's 10th temple and the 57th in the Church. This is the first time an older building has been restored for use as a temple, according to Church spokesman Don LeFevre. The tabernacle, located at 100 South and 500 West in Vernal, some 180 miles east of Salt Lake City, was dedicated in 1907 by President Joseph F. Smith. (See related story below.)
The full text of the First Presidency's letter reads as follows:
"As you are aware, there has been much discussion over a period of many years concerning what to do with the old Uintah Tabernacle in Vernal. The building has not been occupied for a long period and is in serious disrepair.
"There is much of sentiment attached to the building. However, extensive engineering and architectural studies have indicated that it would be extremely costly to restore and that no ecclesiastical need exists for it.
"After giving prayerful consideration to the matter and following extensive study, we have concluded to use the shell of the building, restoring its original outside appearance, and creating within it, a beautiful temple. Additional needed space will be gained by excavating the area around the east end of the tabernacle. By so doing the original aspect of the historic structure will be preserved.
"Under this proposal the temple needs of the faithful Saints in the area will be met and the exterior of the old building will be preserved as a memorial to the faithful people who built it with much sacrifice almost a century ago.
"We have discussed this proposal with the stake presidents of the area who have expressed their endorsement of it. We hope that it will be warmly received by members of the Church and the entire community."
Stakes to be included in the Vernal Utah Temple district will be announced later.
