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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has reaffirmed its support for the Hindu community in Utah by donating $50,000 to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Kearns. The announcement was made during a gathering at the temple on November 22, 2025.
A letter from Elder Matthew S. Holland of the Seventy, read by Michael Frandsen from the Church Communication Department, stated, “This contribution reflects our deep respect and desire to strengthen the bond between us. We hope this contribution supports your mission to serve as a center of worship and cultural connection for Hindus and all people.”
BAPS is an international Hindu organization focused on spiritual living and community service. Its temples serve as places of worship and centers for peace and community engagement.
Kirtan Patel, a volunteer with BAPS, said, “This gift is a symbol of the shared vision between BAPS and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—our mutual commitment to strengthening family, uplifting community, and encouraging moral and ethical living. We view this support as an encouragement to our mission of service (seva). It shows that we are unified in our desire to make Salt Lake City and the world a better, more virtuous place.”
The building now housing the mandir was previously used as a meetinghouse by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In September 2025, church leaders attended its opening as a Hindu sacred space. Elder Michael Cziesla of the Seventy commented at that event, “We are so pleased with this wonderful relationship that we have established over so many years. There is so much that brings us together. We are a temple-building people, and you are a temple-building people.”
Elder Holland’s letter also noted ongoing cooperation: “I reiterate the prayer expressed last September that our two worldwide religious organizations will continue working together in harmony to inspire goodness and uplift communities. May this mandir bless countless lives for generations to come, and may our collaboration continue to flourish in mutual appreciation and love.”
Leaders from both organizations have met several times throughout 2025. Elder David A. Bednar met with Pujya Brahmaviharidas Swami in Abu Dhabi on November 15; earlier in June, The Church’s First Presidency met with Brahmaviharidas Swami on Temple Square; Elder Holland also attended a Diwali celebration hosted by Utah Governor Spencer Cox alongside members of Utah’s Hindu community.
Elder Holland concluded: “Our two faiths share a commitment to strengthening spirituality, nurturing families, and uplifting the weary through humanitarian work.” People from all backgrounds are invited to visit the Kearns mandir and participate in service projects benefiting the local community.
