A man broke into the St. George LDS Temple early Saturday morning by smashing a window. He then damaged artwork and furniture inside before being arrested.
After entering the temple at about 5 a.m., he made it to the fifth floor, where he caused additional damage, said Eric Hawkins, spokesman for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
“He was contained by temple workers (no physical restraint was required) until police arrived, and he was arrested,” Hawkins said in a statement.
The temple was closed to address the damage after the break-in, but resumed normal operations by 11 a.m.
LDS temples are considered houses of God, places where Mormons can participate in their religion’s highest ordinances, including eternal marriage. Only members in good standing are allowed to enter.
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