The Spruce Building, a cherished meeting house for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, ceases operations as a place of worship and community gathering on October 1, 2025.

After more than 50 years of service, this historic building closes its doors as we reflect on the significant role it has played in the lives of many.

Built in 1972 and named for its location at 1095 Spruce Street in Minden, the Spruce Building has been a vital landmark in our community, not just as a place of worship, but as a hub for social and spiritual connection. The construction of the building was a labor of love, with members of the Church alongside local community members, rolling up their sleeves together to create a space that would serve generations to come. This collective effort reflected the spirit of unity and commitment to strengthening our community through worshipping Christ and serving others.

Over the years, the Spruce Building has witnessed countless moments of joy and sorrow, from baptisms to funerals, and from scouting ceremonies to seasonal celebrations. It has hosted weekly church services, uplifting activities for all ages, and has served as a sanctuary for families and individuals alike. The building has been a place where lives were changed for the better, where friendships were forged, and where the gospel of Jesus Christ was shared.

Despite its sentimental and spiritual value, the Spruce Building has become increasingly difficult and costly to maintain. After thorough evaluation, Church leaders determined that the best stewardship of sacred funds moving forward would be to have the two congregations in Carson Valley, currently meeting in separate locations, share use of one more modern building.

The Mahogany Building, named for its location on Mahogany Street, is located less than two miles away from the Spruce Building and has the necessary space to accommodate both congregations, or wards, making it a practical choice for the future. This decision ensures that resources can be better utilized for the broader needs of the community, while still maintaining a welcoming and functional environment for worship, learning, and service.

Though the Spruce Building will no longer be in use as a church meeting house, its legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who have been a part of its history. It stands as a symbol of faith, commitment, and the power of community collaboration.

In recognition of the many beautiful memories and moments shared at the Spruce Building, a special community celebration will be held on Saturday, September 27th, at 8:30 AM. This event will be an opportunity for everyone—whether members of the Church or the broader community—to come together and honor the legacy of the Spruce Building.

The celebration will begin with a flag ceremony, followed by breakfast and a special program. The program will highlight the rich history of the building, telling stories through video and by those who worked together to bring it to life and those who have filled it with spirit and joy over the years. It will also commemorate the countless moments that have taken place within its walls—baptisms, weddings, memorials, community service, scouting activities, and so much more.

This celebration will be a time of reflection and gratitude, as we celebrate the enduring impact the Spruce Building has had on the lives of all who have been a part of it.

When asked to comment on the upcoming closure of the Spruce Building, Bishop Carter Christensen, current Bishop of the Job’s Peak Ward, shared the following: “While we are sad to say goodbye to our beloved meeting house, we are excited to come together to celebrate the memories and friendships that were created in this building. Generations of Carson Valley residents will remember it as a place where their relationship with their Savior Jesus Christ was first developed. It is amazing to consider the impact that this building had on the spiritual growth of so many who lived in Carson Valley.”

While the closure of the Spruce Building marks the end of an era, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter. The spirit of community, fellowship, and faith that has flourished in this beloved building will undoubtedly continue in the Mahogany building and beyond, as we all move forward in our shared journey of faith and service.

As we bid farewell to the Spruce Building, we do so with grateful hearts and fond memories. Bob Ellison, long-time resident, local historian, and former Bishop, shares it this way: “There [is] reason for sadness. However, the Lord’s work goes on. To guide us to our eternal joy, we have all been given the wise admonition: Bloom where you are planted.” The legacy of this special place – community, faith and service – will continue to inspire future generations of families and friends in the Carson Valley.

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