The North Jordan Stake meetinghouse, affectionately known as the Lighthouse Church, is saying goodbye after serving the community for nearly 76 years in what is now West Valley City.
Built in 1949 amidst a post-World War II suburban boom, the church became a beacon for new residents attracted to the burgeoning Salt Lake Valley.
Initially organized due to rapid population growth, the church was designed by architect William Frederick Thomas, known for his innovative work, including midcentury modern designs.
The Lighthouse Church features a striking rectangular steeple topped with a large glass lamp, high entryway, parquet floors, and additional wings for various activities.
At the time of its dedication, over 5,400 members were part of the newly formed stake, and excitement was high for the surrounding area’s development, heralding new opportunities for residents.
In the present, following discussions between city officials and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there are plans in the air for the future of the beloved building.
City staff are negotiating to take ownership of the property with an eye toward transforming it into a community resource center run by MyHometown, a nonprofit focused on education and community engagement.
“It is still all under discussion,” stated city spokesperson Sam Johnson, mentioning that no concrete agreement has yet been reached.
As leaders explore future possibilities, one resident, Sheri Biesinger, hopes to see a portion of the building converted into the first permanent history museum for Utah’s second-largest city.
Biesinger, who runs a website dedicated to West Valley City history, expressed the need for a dedicated space to preserve and showcase the city’s rich heritage, stating, “We’ve got basements full of the history of West Valley City as residents, and we just need a place to put [those artifacts].”
The potential museum aims to not only protect historical artifacts but also to highlight the stories of the community, bridging generations and fostering a sense of local pride.
Biesinger’s efforts to establish a museum have garnered significant community support, including over 800 signatures on a petition aimed at preserving part of the Lighthouse Church for historical purposes.
Many longtime residents recall fond memories spent in the church, with Biesinger noting, “It was the best place to go for dances. It was a place for Scouting and activities, whether LDS or not. It housed a lot of wonderful things for our community, and we just love it.”
As discussions continue regarding the future of the Lighthouse Church, the nonprofit MyHometown currently operates four community centers in West Valley City, aiming to expand its offerings to include various classes and services.
According to church spokesperson Lester Rojas, the decision to retire the chapel stems from a broader effort to align meetinghouse capacity with the current needs of the church.
Rojas stated, “This chapel has served church members for more than 75 years and is in need of significant upgrades and maintenance. The church is in discussions with potential buyers to see how this property can best serve the community in the future.”
Amid the uncertainty, Biesinger is hopeful that the city will take steps to honor the building by designating it a historic landmark, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its historical significance.
The outcome of these negotiations will ultimately shape the legacy of the Lighthouse Church and its impact on the community, whether it transforms into a resource center, a history museum, or perhaps a blend of both.
As history unfolds, West Valley City stands at a pivotal moment, with the Lighthouse Church symbolizing not just a place of worship but a central piece of the city’s cultural and historical narrative.
image source from：https://www.sltrib.com/news/2025/05/31/lds-church-is-selling-an-iconic/
