by Janene Wolsey Baadsgaard
The Visitor’s 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 original Christus Statue, considered by
many to be one of the greatest sculptures of Christianity, was crafted by Bertal Thorvaldsen in
the early 1800’s and is in the Church of Our Lady in Copenhagen, Denmark.
To learn more about the original Christus Statue, click here: A Thing of Beauty: Bertel Thorvaldsen’s Christus (youtube.com)
This thought-provoking new statue features Jesus in his 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 visitor’s 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
Eliana points enthusiastically to the new statue of Christ with her parents Selena and Saidu Conteh.
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 visitor’s centers to proclaim church
member’s devotion to the Savior and his teachings.
Elder and Sister Child, Visitor’s Center Directors. Sister Missionaries are eager to assist visitors
Elder and Sister Childs serve as the directors at the Visitor’s Center. They along with
several senior couples volunteer their time to assist visitors. 
Young women from all over the world, who speak many languages, also serve there. Why would these senior couples and young
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 here, 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, that features this
Christus statue. This image of the Christus Statue is used by the church on its
webpages and other official publications.
