Sacred Art and Global Devotion: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Unveils New Christ-Centered Statuary at Temple Square Ahead of Easter General Conference

The “Jesus Christ in Gethsemane” statue, created by husband-and-wife duo Stephani and Roger Hunt, debuts just south of the Salt Lake Temple on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

SALT LAKE CITY — In a symbolic integration of art and theology, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints unveiled two major bronze sculptures on the grounds of Temple Square this week. The installation, occurring amidst the global Easter season, marks a significant milestone in the ongoing multi-year renovation of the historic ten-acre complex.

​The two pieces, titled “Jesus Christ Carrying the Cross” and “Jesus Christ in Gethsemane,” have been positioned on the south side of the Salt Lake Temple near the Visitors’ Center plaza. Church officials noted that the timing of the debut is intended to align with the Christian world’s commemoration of Holy Week, focusing on the final days of the Savior’s mortal ministry and His subsequent Resurrection.

​Artistic Contributions to a Sacred Landscape

The “Jesus Christ Carrying the Cross” statue, created by Michael Hall, debuts just south of the Salt Lake Temple on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

​The new works represent the contributions of renowned artists familiar with the Church’s aesthetic and scriptural traditions:

• ​“Jesus Christ Carrying the Cross”: Executed by sculptor Michael Hall, this piece depicts the arduous journey to Calvary. Hall is well-known to Temple Square visitors as the creator of the "First Vision" monument. His latest work focuses on the physical and spiritual weight borne by Christ during the Passion.
• ​“Jesus Christ in Gethsemane”: This contemplative work was produced by the husband-and-wife sculpting team of Stephani and Roger Hunt. It portrays a deeply personal moment of prayer and divine suffering within the Garden of Gethsemane, a cornerstone of Latter-day Saint theology regarding the Atonement.

​While the statues are currently located within an active construction zone—limiting close-up public access—they are visible from the surrounding perimeter, adding a spiritual focal point to the ongoing revitalization of the site.

​General Conference and Easter Observances

Crew members install the “Jesus Christ in Gethsemane” statue, created by husband-and-wife duo Stephani and Roger Hunt, just south of the Salt Lake Temple on Wednesday, September 17, 2025

The unveiling serves as a visual prelude to the Church’s upcoming General Conference, scheduled for April 4–5, 2026. Coinciding with Easter weekend, the semi-annual gathering will feature addresses from the First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, and other general officers of the Church.

​Global broadcasts are expected to reach millions, emphasizing the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. For those attending in person at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City:

• ​Ticketing: Formal tickets are required for entry into the primary sessions.
• ​Overflow: A standby line will be organized outside the Tabernacle on Temple Square to accommodate those seeking overflow seating or last-minute vacancies in the main hall.

​Looking Toward 2027: The Salt Lake Temple Celebration

​The debut of these sculptures is part of a broader trajectory leading toward the completion of the Salt Lake Temple’s seismic and structural renovation. Church leadership has officially designated April 5 through October 1, 2027, as the window for the Salt Lake Temple Celebration.

​During this six-month period, the historic pioneer-era temple will host a public open house. This rare event will allow visitors from around the globe to tour the interior of the building before it is rededicated for sacred ordinances. The surrounding plazas, gardens, and supporting buildings are also expected to be fully operational and open to the public at that time.

MORE PHOTOS:

Crew members install the “Jesus Christ in Gethsemane” statue, created by husband-and-wife duo Stephani and Roger Hunt, just south of the Salt Lake Temple on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

Foot details of the “Jesus Christ Carrying the Cross” statue, created by Michael Hall, also feature drops of blood, symbolizing the blood that fell from Christ's body before he was raised up on the cross to be crucified. Photo taken on the south side of the Salt Lake Temple on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

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