Joseph Smith's First Vision

This statue on Temple Square depicts a sacred moment from 1820, when 14-year-old Joseph Smith knelt in prayer in a grove of trees near his home in upstate New York. Seeking truth, he prayed sincerely—and in answer, God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, appeared to him. God called Joseph by name and introduced His Son, saying, “This is my Beloved Son. Hear Him.”

This experience, known as the First Vision, marked the beginning of the Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Through Joseph Smith, Christ restored His Church, His priesthood authority, and the fulness of His teachings, offering renewed hope, peace, and purpose.

The statue invites personal reflection. It reminds visitors that God and Jesus Christ know each of us personally, hear our prayers, and continue to speak through living prophets today.