The Church of Jesus Christ participated for the first time in Azerbaijan’s “Color of Diversity” inter-religious event

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints took part for the first time in the “Color of Diversity” Festival held at the Baku Expo Center on November 5, 2025. The event, organized by the State Committee on Affairs with Religious Associations of the Republic of Azerbaijan, brought together representatives of 33 religious communities from across the country under the theme “Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty.”

Elder Rubén V. Alliaud, President of the Europe Central Area of the Church, headed the delegation at the event and met with government officials, interfaith leaders and other dignitaries. “We are honored to join with friends of many faiths in celebrating the beauty of diversity and the shared values that unite us as children of God. Azerbaijan’s example of inter-religious harmony is an inspiration to the world. We look forward to continuing our friendship and service in this remarkable nation”, said Elder Alliaud.

The festival celebrates Azerbaijan’s long-standing traditions of religious tolerance and cultural harmony. The program included exhibitions from faith communities, musical and cultural performances, and a joint interfaith prayer ceremony.

Festival organizers welcomed the Church’s involvement in the national event, noting the inclusive spirit of Azerbaijan’s religious life. Chairman Ramin Mammadov, head of the State Committee on Affairs with Religious Associations of the Republic of Azerbaijan said ‘the presence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints enriches our dialogue and reflects the openness that defines our nation. This festival shows that unity and respect among different faiths are not only possible but essential to our shared future.”

The Festival commenced with the introduction to the stands of religious communities and it was followed by an official opening ceremony featuring Azerbaijan’s National Anthem and with a video presentation on Azerbaijan’s traditions of tolerance.

Cultural performances and presentations from various religious groups and their leaders in Azerbaijan were also part of the program, which concluded with a joint prayer ceremony and a group photo of the participants.

President Peter Huber, who leads the Europe Central Turkic and Persian-Speaking Mission, was selected to pray at the end of the Festival, among eleven other religious leaders. "I prayed for the well-being of all of God's children in this part of the world, so they continue to enjoy the freedom to worship God according to their conscience and belief", he expressed.

The Church’s participation in the festival precedes another historic milestone — the inauguration of the first meetinghouse of the Church in Baku, scheduled for November 13, 2025. This event marks a significant step in the Church’s growing presence in the Caucasus region and underscores its commitment to supporting faith, family, and community wherever it is established.

Government officials, religious representatives and other dignitaries will be participating in that momentous event. In the evening, there will be a public open house celebration that is being prepared to welcome members and friends of the Church. The formal dedication of the building will be performed by a senior leader of the Church.

Read the article in Azeri here.