I was able to your the Gilbert Temple last week. It's difficult to describe it's beauty and grandeur. It has an agave cactus theme throughout which is reflected in the wood carving, rugs, fabric, windows, travertine, and more. It has amazing crystal chandeliers. We were able to view the changing rooms, a baptismal that they use to baptize dead relatives, a serenity or celestial room used for reflection after receiving instruction, and a sealing room where they are wed for eternity. That room was especially neat as they have mirrors that face each other & reflect to what looks like eternity. While it was gorgeous, I never felt the "spirit" during my tour. I was in awe of the architecture and design, but never felt a religious presence.
Now my practical side comes out... The amount of money that had to have been spent to build this grand temple probably could have fed a starving country for 6 months. Or built a factory to put Americans to work. Or a recreation area for kids to play at and employed staff for a year. Or provided health care for those in need. If there is a god did he really want temples bulit in this style and dollar figure? Organized religion really baffles me in most aspects. But like I said, it has indescribable beauty and I'm really glad I was able to see it in person.
