Why are they not putting Angel Moroni on temples, and what does he symbolize?

For many, the iconic golden statue of an angel blowing a trumpet atop many temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a familiar sight. This figure is Angel Moroni, a prophet from the Book of Mormon. However, in recent years, some new temples have been dedicated without this prominent spire. This has led to questions from members and observers alike: Why are they not putting Angel Moroni on temples anymore?

The answer is not a simple "they aren't anymore." Instead, it's a nuanced shift in architectural emphasis and a re-evaluation of what best represents the core message of these sacred buildings. While Angel Moroni remains a significant symbol for the Church, the decision to include him on every new temple is now more flexible.

The Historical Significance of Angel Moroni

To understand the change, we must first understand why Angel Moroni became a temple standard in the first place.

Messenger of the Restoration: According to Church teachings, Angel Moroni was a prophet who lived in ancient America. Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, reported that Moroni appeared to him multiple times, beginning in 1823. Moroni revealed the location of ancient gold plates inscribed with a record of God's dealings with the inhabitants of the Americas – what would become the Book of Mormon.
Guardian of Truth: Moroni is seen as a divine messenger entrusted with preserving and delivering the record that forms a cornerstone of Latter-day Saint belief.
Symbol of the Everlasting Gospel: The trumpet Moroni blows is often interpreted as a symbol of the spreading of the everlasting gospel to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples, as prophesied in the Book of Revelation.
First Temple Spire: The tradition of placing a statue of Angel Moroni on temples began with the Salt Lake Temple, dedicated in 1893. This became a recognizable and beloved feature for decades, adorning most temples built subsequently.

The Evolving Architectural Landscape of Temples

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has experienced significant growth, leading to a rapid increase in the number of temples being built worldwide. This expansion has prompted a re-examination of temple design and symbolism.

Several factors are contributing to the decision to not place Angel Moroni on every new temple:

Architectural Diversity: The Church desires its temples to reflect the unique cultures and architectural styles of the regions in which they are built. This can lead to designs that are more integrated with the local environment and less standardized.
Focus on the Temple's Purpose: The primary purpose of a temple is to be a house of the Lord, a place for sacred ordinances and covenants. While Angel Moroni is a significant symbol, the focus is increasingly on the spiritual significance of the temple itself as a beacon of faith.
Symbolism Beyond Moroni: Many temples incorporate other symbolic elements in their architecture, such as scriptural motifs, representations of light, or architectural features that evoke peace and sanctity. The absence of Angel Moroni does not mean an absence of symbolism.
Practical Considerations: In some locations, the logistics or aesthetic suitability of placing a statue on a spire might be challenging.
Broader Representation of the Gospel: The Church emphasizes that the message of the restored gospel is for all people. While Moroni represents a crucial part of that message, the Church seeks to convey this broad message through various means, including the temple's overall design and its function as a place of gathering and worship.

What the Absence of Angel Moroni Signifies

It is crucial to understand that the decision to omit the Angel Moroni statue does not diminish his importance or the foundational role of the Book of Mormon.

Instead, it signifies:

A Maturity in Symbolism: The Church has grown to a point where its identity and mission are well-established, and the need for a single, universally applied external symbol might be less critical.
A Deeper Internal Focus: The emphasis is shifting towards the internal spiritual experience of temple patrons and the sacred ordinances performed within, rather than solely relying on an external icon.
A Globalized Faith: As the Church becomes more international, designs that resonate locally are becoming more important.

The presence of Angel Moroni on many existing temples will continue to be a cherished reminder of the origins of the Church and its prophetic heritage. For new temples, the architectural choices are a reflection of a growing, global faith seeking to express its sacred mission in diverse and meaningful ways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why did the Church start putting Angel Moroni on temples in the first place?

The tradition began with the Salt Lake Temple in 1893. Angel Moroni is a central figure in the Church's history, believed to have appeared to Joseph Smith and guided him to the gold plates from which the Book of Mormon was translated. He is seen as a messenger of the restored gospel, and his trumpet symbolizes the spreading of that message.

Are all new temples being built without Angel Moroni?

No, not all new temples are being built without the Angel Moroni statue. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis, considering architectural design, local cultural context, and the overall message the temple is intended to convey. Some new temples do still feature the statue.

Does the absence of Angel Moroni mean the Book of Mormon is less important?

Absolutely not. The Book of Mormon remains a foundational scripture for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The decision regarding the Angel Moroni statue is an architectural and symbolic one, not a theological one. The focus is on diverse expressions of faith and the spiritual purpose of the temple itself.

What does the trumpet Angel Moroni blows symbolize?

The trumpet is widely interpreted as symbolizing the proclamation of the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ to all the peoples of the earth, fulfilling ancient prophecies. It represents a call to hear and accept the restored truth.

What kind of symbolism is used in temples that do not feature Angel Moroni?

Temples without the Angel Moroni statue often incorporate other forms of symbolism within their architecture. This can include motifs inspired by scripture, representations of light, geometric patterns that convey spiritual truths, and designs that are harmoniously integrated with the local environment and culture.