The intent to build the temple was announced on October 4, 2008, by church president Thomas S. Monson, during general conference.

[5] Church president Thomas S. Monson announced the intent to build the Calgary Alberta Temple on 4 October 2008, during general conference.

[8][9] The groundbreaking on May 15, 2010[10] was presided over by Donald L. Hallstrom, with other church general authorities and area leaders in attendance, including William R. Walker and Richard K.

[19] The exterior has a single attached central spire topped with a statue of the angel Moroni,[3] chosen for their symbolic significance and alignment with temple traditions.

The interior has stained-glass windows and other decorative elements like railings and doorknobs centered around a wheat stalk motif to represent Alberta’s agriculture.

The design uses elements representing the history and heritage of Alberta, to provide deeper spiritual meaning to the temple's appearance and function.

Symbolism is important to church members and includes the wheat stalk motif found throughout the temple, which represents the region’s long agricultural history.