Redlands Temple

Ross's current schedule allows for many random afternoon adventures. He gets done pretty early and by that point I'm usually exhausted from filling out applications or tired about thinking about applications, and it's a nice break to do something random.

This particular afternoon we decided to wander over to the LDS Temple here in Redlands.

Growing up I was always partial to the Los Angeles Temple, but I had driven past the Redlands temple as well. Even though I grew up going to the Los Angeles temple, the Redlands temple is about the same distance time-wise. To learn more about temples you can check out this site.



Temples are always beautiful places, whether you are a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or not, Christian, or not, you can find a beautiful building and grounds!



The Redlands temple was dedicated in 2003, and I can remember when it was announced to be built. Since it has been built more recently, it is a pretty small temple. Unlike earlier temples (like the Salt Lake City or Los Angeles temples) that were quite large in comparison, temples tend to be more plentiful and smaller. The same important work and learning is done, no matter the size!

The Redlands temple is the third one built in Southern California and the first in the Inland Empire. 

I learned that the temple site is on the original landholdings of the early settlers of San Bernardino- Mormons! "...established in 1851 under the direction of Brigham Young. The ethnically diverse settlement provided colony life to Mormon pioneers, African-American families, Jewish merchants, Spanish rancho families, former Mexican government officials, and local Cahuilla and Serrano Indians."

The archways, fountains, everything is so intricate and symbolic and beautiful. It was very peaceful to just take some time and walk around the temple grounds.