Washington Spokane Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Spokane's culture is a vibrant mix of historical significance and modern innovation, heavily influenced by its agricultural and educational heritage. The city's culinary scene features local favorites like Pacific Northwest cuisine and fresh farm-to-table dishes. Music and arts thrive in Spokane, with performances at the Spokane Symphony and exhibits at the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture. Historical sites such as the Bing Crosby House offer insights into the region's past, particularly its growth during the early 20th century.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of urban landscapes, river valleys, and forested hills, with natural landmarks such as the Spokane River and the nearby Mount Spokane, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

CLIMATE

The climate is characterized by four distinct seasons, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Summer temperatures average around 85°F, while winter temperatures average around 28°F. Rainfall is moderate, with the wettest months being November and December.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are English and Spanish.

RELIGIONS

Major religions in the region include Roman Catholicism, Baptist, and Lutheran.

INDUSTRIES

Agriculture: The area supports a strong agricultural industry with major employers like Farmers Insurance excelling in agribusiness and crop insurance.

Healthcare: The region has a robust healthcare sector with companies like Providence Health & Services excelling in medical services and patient care.

Education: The area has a significant education sector with institutions like Gonzaga University excelling in higher education and research.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the Lilac Bloomsday Run, celebrating fitness and community; the Spokane Interstate Fair, showcasing local agriculture and entertainment; and the Spokane Hoopfest, featuring the world's largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the Riverfront Park, known for its scenic views and attractions; the Manito Park, featuring beautiful gardens and walking paths; and the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture, offering exhibits on regional history and culture.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, skiing, and fishing, with major parks like Mount Spokane State Park and Riverside State Park being popular destinations.

MISSION HISTORY

In 1854, four missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in California were sent to labor in the Washington and Oregon territories. Enough converts joined to form a congregation along the Lewis River. During those early years, animosity against the Church members was so strong in Washington that when one convert died in 1911, her grave was dedicated secretly at night.

Many Church members helped with Washington's railroad construction for the Northern Pacific Oregon Short Line in the 1880s. In 1930, Church membership in Washington was 1,900 in eight congregations, with chapels in Everett, Spokane, Seattle, and Olympia. Many members flocked to the state with the completion of the Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River in the early 1940s. A temple was completed in Seattle in 1980.

The Spokane and Columbia River Washington Temples were completed and dedicated in 1999 and 2001, respectively.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

Spokane Mission Alumni Facebook Group

Spokane Reunion President Call 1991-94 Group

Spokane President Philip Thorpe 1980-83 Group

Spokane Mission President Norwood C. McCoy Group

Spokane President Bruce A. Lloyd (1986-89) Group

Spokane Mission President Thorpe Group