2026 G20 Interfaith Forum Begins in Salt Lake City
The international summit, bringing together leaders from diverse faiths and cultures, opened its doors at the historic Tabernacle on Temple Square.
President Dallin H. Oaks welcomed religious and civil society leaders from around the world at the opening of the 2026 G20 Interfaith Forum, held under the theme "Resilient Hope, Shared Future."
Opening Ceremony of the Summit
President Dallin H. Oaks hosted the international gathering held on Thursday, October 15, at Temple Square in Salt Lake City.
This three-day comprehensive event began with contributions from participants aiming to bring together different faith groups and communities.
Significance of the Historic Meeting
Officials speaking at the opening ceremony noted that this organization represents the most significant gathering of religious leaders in the city's history.
Emphasis was placed on the collective efforts made by people from diverse backgrounds to build stronger communities.
International Participants
The opening program featured speeches by Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, and Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States.
The event also included figures such as W. Cole Durham, Katherine Marshall, Grand Mufti Allahshukur Pashazade, Metropolitan Emmanuel, Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, Mark Dratch, and Francis Kuria Kagema.
Policy Recommendations and the Summit
Policy recommendations prepared throughout the interfaith forum will be presented to heads of state ahead of the G20 Leaders' Summit to be held in Miami on December 14-15.
This significant meeting in Salt Lake City was supported by the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University and the International Center for Law and Religion Studies at Brigham Young University.