India. A land of diverse religions.
At a joyous celebration in Pune,
a new statue was unveiled at the famed World Peace Dome on the campus of
the MIT World Peace University.
Like many of the other statues under the dome recognizing religious leaders,
including Jesus Christ, a new statue honors the founder of the global faith:
Joseph Smith, the first prophet of
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
[live music]
“I feel a great sense of friendship.
I'm gratified that you would honor us, as members of
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as you honor
the Prophet Joseph Smith with this statue in this majestic hall built to
promote world peace. I honor each of you and express gratitude
for your generosity and kindness.”
Elder D. Todd Christofferson, an Apostle of the Church of Jesus Christ,
represented the Church and receiving the distinguished honor.
In 2015, the president and founder of the World Peace University visited with
the Church leadership in Salt Lake City, Utah,
and was impressed with the similar values he observed.
“So similar, so matching with what Indian culture stands for,
these were the people who showed me
a glimpse of what India would like to convey and proceed and promote.
A very unique event is taking place today. And what a good fortune, friends.”
“To be clear, we do not worship Joseph Smith. He is not a deity.
He is not a god. But we readily acknowledge that his continuing
influence for good in the world,
the revelations that he brought forth, his example of service and sacrifice,
and his devotion and witness of the living God,
we revere him as a prophet.,
One of the many key teachings of Joseph Smith is to gain an education.
“I hope each of you will have
an understanding of what Joseph Smith meant when he said,
’In knowledge there is power,
power to fulfill our divine destiny as children of God.’”
The revealing of the statue was a part of the
World Interfaith Harmony Conference.
“I conclude with this statement from the Prophet Joseph Smith:
’Friendship is one of the great fundamental principles of our faith
and doctrine. It is designed to revolutionize and civilize the world and
cause wars and contentions to cease and men to become friends and brothers.’”
“This day I had never even imagined in my life.
The Prophet Smith had thought about friendship
and who believed also in freedom of religion.”
“This was a historic day, a wonderful day. To see
the Prophet Joseph Smith honored in this way in India was quite unexpected.
This has been a perfect example, this day, of people of faith coming together
in that way, showing appreciation for the beliefs of another. Special day.