Ensign on a hill, resource to the community
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OAKLAND, Calif. — The Oakland California Temple visitors center, featuring all new exhibits, reopened over the Independence Day weekend. It had been closed for remodeling since February.
The fixtures and finishes of the center have been replaced with new materials in colors that complement the temple and its surrounding grounds, according to Mark Lusvardi, manager of Church exhibits.
The center emphasizes the birth, ministry and atonement of Jesus Christ, and the restoration of His gospel, said Elder Sylvan F. Seely, the center director. He added that the theme "Restoration" is carried throughout the visitors center. With its new exhibits, it is open to anyone who would like to learn more about Jesus Christ and the restoration of His Church, Elder Seely said, noting that it gives people a chance to leave the city and enjoy a place of peace and tranquility.
An open house for area priesthood leaders and their families was held on June 30. The official opening was July 4.
The visitors center "Christus" statue has a dramatic new background mural depicting the universe.
One of the new exhibits is "God's Plan for His Family," and can be seen only in the visitors centers in Oakland and Mesa, Ariz. Missionaries escort visitors through the exhibit's six different scene areas that teach the principles of the restoration of the gospel through prophets in the context of a family setting.
Among the other exhibits is the Book of Mormon scripture table which includes copies of the Book of Mormon in many languages There are two interactive kiosks that present the teachings and doctrine of the Book of Mormon.
"Teachings of Modern Prophets" is an exhibit which includes the testimonies of the First Presidency and members of the Quorum of the Twelve in 16 languages.
"The Savior of the World" exhibit features an interactive topographical model of ancient Jerusalem as well as art depicting the life of the Savior.
"The Proclamation on the Family" exhibit teaches about the importance of families, while the Temples and Eternal Family exhibit contains images of the Oakland Temple along with explanations of the blessings available in holy temples.
Family Search gives visitors an opportunity to research their own family history by accessing the Church's family history Internet site www.FamilySearch.org
Two films are shown in the center. One is on the life of Joseph Smith, helping viewers gain an understanding of his role in the restoration of the gospel. "Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd" is also shown, and the two films will be made available in Spanish and other languages, according to Brother Lusvardi.
He said the center's new design encourages visitors to explore the exhibits at their own pace according to their individual interests. Missionaries make presentations to introduce the various exhibits and help visitors understand the doctrines as well as feel the spirit of their testimonies.
Brother Lusvardi noted that the visitors center is a tremendous resource to the community, associated with the temple, which is an ensign on the hill visible from many places around the San Francisco Bay area. Members are encouraged to visit the center with family, friends and neighbors, he said.
