Temple of ECK

Five hundred residents of the Chanhassen signed a petition opposing the construction of the building.^[5] Some residents were worried about property values and an allegedly cult-like nature of the religion.^[1] Others found it to be a poor use of land, thinking it should be used for development that would create a larger tax base. 2,576 people signed a petition asking the city to purchase the land.^[6] Nonetheless, after hearing 21⁄2 hours of feedback from residents,^[7] the Chanhassen Planning Commission voted on March 1, 1989, to recommend to the city council that a construction permit be issued.^[1] The city council approved the permit for the 800-seat church on May 22, 1989.^[8]

Excavation began in October 1989, and the temple was dedicated a year later on October 22, 1990.^[9] Its architectural style is defined by a "golden ziggurat", though more closely resembling a pyramid, symbolizing ascension.^[10] Some 52,000 concrete blocks and 225 tons of steel were used in the building of the 50,000-square-foot (4,600 m²) temple. The building contains classrooms, worship spaces, and other meeting areas.^[11] Photos of the religion's founder, Harold Klemp, are in every room.^[12] A golden "EK" emblem sits above the main glass doors.^[11] The main 8,000-square foot sanctuary has seating for 800 people and a 1,000-square stage. A large, six-pointed stained glass blue star representing the Holy Spirit is on the ceiling.^[13]

The temple sits on 173 acres (70 ha) of land, making Eckankar the fourth-largest landowner in the city.^[14] Some 2 miles (3.2 km) of prairie walking paths for contemplation are open to the public.^[12]

Prior to the construction of the temple, the Eckankar headquarters were in New Hope, Minnesota.^[5]