An emotional day for Tucson's Mormon community as worshipers gathered to watch Angel Moroni placed on top of Southern Arizona’s first Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple.
Major milestone for the 1st Mormon temple in Tucson. Placing the angel on top @kgun9 pic.twitter.com/g4nlJdEJGK
— Priscilla Casper (@priscillacasper) July 7, 2016
Covered in gold leaf, the nine foot statue of Angel Moroni was placed on top of the temple on Thursday afternoon.
"He's got his trumpet, so he is proclaiming that the church is restored and so it's his trumpet that is declaring truth is on the Earth."
A tent full of people gathered, all waiting for this moment.
For Mormon residents, they have been wanting a temple in Tucson.
Tucson native Denean Jenkins has been waiting her whole life.
"It really does. Right now we work at the Mesa Temple so we drive up every Tuesday. And so to have one in our own town is really dear to my heart," said Jenkins.
This temple located on the northwest side will be the sixth temple in the state.
"It is very special temple. Families are forever," said Jenkins.
The temple should be fully constructed by next year.
Moments after the 300 pound fiberglass angel was placed on top of the new Mormon temple. @kgun9 pic.twitter.com/Ay1t4YGe1F
— Priscilla Casper (@priscillacasper) July 7, 2016
The temple is being built where East Ina Road curves into Skyline Drive.
