“The Spirit was poured out – I saw the glory of God, like a great cloud come down and rest upon the house, and fill the same like a mighty rushing wind. I also saw cloven tongues, like as of fire rest upon many.” — Oliver Cowdery1
On March 27, 1836, the Kirtland Temple was dedicated in a grand ceremony attended by over a thousand Saints. This marked the completion of the first temple built in this dispensation—a place for the Lord to manifest Himself to His people.2 The temple dedication involved several key events, including the dedicatory prayer offered by Joseph Smith, which he had prepared with Oliver Cowdery and Sidney Rigdon.3 This prayer, now recorded as Doctrine and Covenants Section 109, asked for divine acceptance of the temple and sought blessings for the Saints and their missionary endeavors worldwide.3
During the service, Sidney Rigdon delivered a powerful sermon and then Joseph Smith gave dedication, which emphasized the temple's role as a house of prayer, learning, and order—a beacon for the divine presence.3 The ceremony concluded with the congregation singing William Phelps's hymn, "The Spirit of God," and shouting "Hosanna!”2 Lydia Knight, among the attendees, described feeling the glory of God fill the temple.2
Attendees also reported seeing angels sing, hearing people speak of tongues, and experiencing the glory of God descend like a cloud.4
