Our Trip to the Winter Quarters Temple

To celebrate our 10th Temple Anniversary, John and I went to Omaha, Nebraska to the Winter Quarters Temple. It is one of the smaller temples, but absolutely beautiful. The sessions can only accomodate about 20 people each, so you have to call ahead and schedule a time. The stained-glass windows you see right in the center are beautiful pictures of Brigham Young and the pioneers. It is a beautiful and meaningful part of our LDS history. You cannot visit here without feeling a renewed appreciation of our pioneer heritage.

John in front of the Winters Quarters Temple. It was such a gorgeous day.

This is John enjoying the beautiful sculptures and the amazing feeling of peace and strength we felt on these lovely and hallowed grounds.

This is the beautiful Winter Quarters Temple, and if you follow the steps to the right it leads you right into the cemetery.

This is a beautiful sculpture in the Winter Quarters Cemetery which is connected to the Temple Grounds. Over 600 Latter-Day Saints lost their lives during the course of that winter when they were forced to flee from Nauvoo and cross the Mississippi River into Iowa. And over the course of the next few months they made their way to Council Bluffs. When Pres. Hinckley came to view the property where this temple would be built, the saints were told that this ground would not have to be dedicated since it was already sacred ground. It is the only temple site ever that did not have to have the grounds dedicated.

This picture was taken in front of the Winter Quarters Visitors Center across a tiny little street from the Temple and Cemetery. This is an amazing sculpture of a handcart pioneer family.