Tuesday, September 1, 2026 began the opening day of the Messiah's Mansion exhibition located at the Southeastern California Conference (SECC) office campus in Riverside. For six days, visitors can take a step back more than 3,000 years to experience the biblical sanctuary in a new way.

Messiah's Mansion, a traveling life-sized replica of the Hebrew Tabernacle, is open for tours September 1-6 at the SECC office. Through a guided, five-station experience, visitors journey from the courtyard into the Holy Place and Most Holy Place to learn about the altar of sacrifice, laver, table of showbread, altar of incense, candlestick, Ark of the Covenant, and garments of the high priest.

This historical exhibit brings the biblical story of the sanctuary to life and provides opportunities for guests of all ages to better understand its symbols, their significance, and God's plan of salvation for humanity.

For generations, Seventh-day Adventists have studied the sanctuary as more than an ancient structure. Its furnishings, sacrifices, priests, and services tell a larger story—the story of salvation and the ministry of Jesus Christ. The earthly sanctuary was designed as a place where God would dwell among His people, but Scripture also describes its services as a “copy and shadow of the heavenly things.” Throughout its worship system, the sanctuary pointed forward to Christ—His sacrifice for humanity, His role as our High Priest, and His continuing ministry on our behalf in the heavenly sanctuary.

In this way, the sanctuary message is not simply about understanding ancient Israel. It offers a picture of a God who desires to be near His people and has made a way for humanity to be restored to Him.

Walking through Messiah’s Mansion provides an opportunity to see familiar biblical passages in a new way. The altar can remind visitors of Christ’s sacrifice. The priesthood points toward Jesus as our High Priest. And the journey toward the Most Holy Place can invite reflection on God’s desire to ultimately restore His people fully into His presence.

Messiah’s Mansion has traveled across 38 states and seven countries since 2003, welcoming churches, schools, families, and communities along the way.

Free tours are available daily from 1:00 to 6:30 p.m. at 11330 Pierce Street in Riverside. Walk-ins are welcomed, but reservations are preferred. Visit https://www.messiahsmansion.com/riverside to book a tour.