SALT LAKE CITY — President Dallin H. Oaks of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints welcomed international religious leaders to Salt Lake City on Thursday for the opening of the G20 Interfaith Forum, urging participants to unite as peacemakers while respecting distinct theological beliefs.
Speaking in the historic Salt Lake Tabernacle, Oaks noted that the gathering represents the most prominent constellation of religious leaders ever assembled in the city. He emphasized that true peacemaking thrives on mutual respect rather than the erosion of individual convictions.
“People of goodwill, compassion, and a desire to understand and help one another — without demanding a compromise of distinctive commitments — are at the core of peacemaking,” Oaks told the capacity crowd.
The event, centered on the theme “Resilient Hope, Shared Future,” marks the first time the G20 Interfaith Forum has been hosted in the United States. Established in 2014, the annual forum brings together scholars, public officials, humanitarians, and faith leaders to integrate religious insights into pressing global issues, from poverty and economic development to religious freedom.
Thursday’s opening ceremony featured leaders from Muslim, Christian, Hindu, and Jewish traditions. Dr. Mohammad Abdulkarim Al-Issa, secretary-general of the Muslim World League, delivered the keynote address, stressing that natural human differences should never incite conflict or a clash of civilizations. Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States, read a message from Pope Leo XIV, praising the assembly as a “shining example of the solidarity of the human family.”
Musical performances by The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square highlighted the evening, prompting Metropolitan Emmanuel of Chalcedon to compare interfaith work to choral harmony, where unique voices maintain their distinct lines while creating collective beauty. Other speakers—including Hindu leader Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati and Rabbi Mark Dratch of the World Jewish Congress—challenged attendees to turn hope into practical action against violence, oppression, and environmental degradation.
Prior to the main ceremony, Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles welcomed delegates at a dinner, highlighting the Savior’s call for peacemakers. A separate panel discussion featuring Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, former South Carolina Gov. David Beasley, and Martin Luther King III focused on the art of civil disagreement, emphasizing the power of personal relationships and listening.
The multi-day forum will conclude on Saturday with final sessions at the Cathedral of the Madeleine.