New statue of Jesus Christ unveiled at Oakland Temple Visitors’ Center

By Janene Baadsgaard

The Visitors’ Center at the Oakland Temple announces the acquisition of a stunning new statue of Jesus Christ. Displayed on a pedestal in the entrance to the center, this inspiring replica of the famous Christus statue welcomes all visitors. The new statue was installed on Wednesday, June 26, 2024.

The original Christus statue, considered by many to be one of the greatest sculptures of Christianity, was crafted by Bertal Thorvaldsen in the early 1800s and is in the Church of Our Lady in Copenhagen, Denmark. Learn more about the original Christus statue here: 

A Thing of Beauty: Bertel Thorvaldsen’s Christus

This thought-provoking new statue features Jesus’s resurrected body with outstretched, welcoming arms. As the viewer approaches the statue of Christ, the signs of His crucifixion can be seen as wounds in His hands, feet, and uncovered side. Those who take a moment to pause, feel a sense of reverence as they look up into the loving face of Jesus and contemplate the transforming power of Christ’s love.

Comfortable benches surrounding the statue give visitors a chance to be still and listen to a recording of Christ’s healing words in their own language. Those feeling weighed down by life’s challenges can rest in this space and contemplate what Christ’s mission and teachings mean to them. Being near the Christus helps to recall His words, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

Children are always welcome at the Visitors’ Center, and bring a happy curiosity and enthusiasm as they view the new statue reminding observers of Christ’s words, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not to come unto me for of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:4).

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has crafted many replicas of this famous Christus statue and displays them all around the world in visitors’ centers to proclaim the devotion of church members to the Savior and His teachings.

Elder and Sister Childs serve as directors at the Visitors’ Center. They, along with several other senior couples, volunteer their time to assist the visitors. Young women from all over the world who speak many languages also serve there. Why would these senior couples and young women leave their homes and families to serve at their own expense? “I love my Savior with all my heart and want to serve Him until I take my last breath,” Elder Childs said. “Each day I see visitors look at the statue, then kneel to pray. After listening to Christ’s recorded narration in their own language, many weep.”

“I feel so honored to serve here,” Sister Childs said. “When visitors come, they often tell me they feel so much peace. Others say they have never been in a place where they feel so loved and welcomed.”

Prophet and President Russel Nelson, of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, announced a new symbol for the church on April 4, 2020, which features this Christus statue. This image of the Christus Statue is used by the church on its webpages and other official publications.

The Oakland Temple Visitors’ Center is free and open to the public daily from 9:00 AM–9:00 PM. Visitors can take a casual walk through the center, ask for a guided tour, or simply enjoy a spectacular view of the Bay Area from the back windows. For more information about the tours the Visitors’ Center offers, check out the Oakland Temple Visitors’ Center Facebook page.