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SALT LAKE CITY -- Two members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints running for President. A hit Broadway musical called "The Book of Mormon." Mormons have held the spotlight this year. But across our state milestones have been marked for many faiths that make up the religious background of Utah.
From politics to arts, many throughout the country dub this "The year of the Mormons." Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney was on the cover of Newsweek in June, his head atop the body of a dancing missionary actor from "The Book of Mormon" Broadway musical, which won 9 Tony Awards. Former Ambassador to China, Jon Huntsman is also a GOP candidate. Newsweek writers, including a Latter-day Saint, say this Church is 'having a moment'.
"It says a lot for Mormonism that it is being discussed in serious national magazines and being lampooned on Broadway. I think it's a good thing for the church, really," said Newsweek writer McKay Coppins.
Immediately following the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Latter-day Saint Church leaders moved missionaries out temporarily and humanitarian aid, by the tons, in. Then missionaries returned to help clean up.
Workers building the new Brigham City Temple placed an Angel Moroni statue atop a steeple in July, while 5000 from the surrounding area watched with enthusiasm.
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir led the festivities celebrating the 100th anniversary of the old Hotel Utah, now the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. President Monson cut the ribbon and thousands shared memories of special family events there.
In April, Utah's Buddhist community celebrated the opening of a new temple in West Valley City. Members worked for ten years to raise the money for it.
In June, This Is The Place Heritage Park opened a new Walk of Pioneer Faiths, representing 11 different churches and their settlers in Utah.
People of many faiths marked the 10th anniversary of September 11. The leader of each congregation spoke of improving relations.
"How can we become better individuals so that events that are linked to the 9/11 (do) not take place again," said Imam Muhammed Mehtar of the Khadeeja Mosque in West Valley City.
Two Latter-day Saint missionaries, Elders Derek Walker from Fairfield, Idaho and Trevor Strong from Taylorsville, Utah, were hit and killed while riding their bikes in a small Texas town in November. Their companion, Elder Zachery Harris from Huntsville, Alabama was injured.
Utah's Greek Orthodox community in November held a key vote defining use of parish funds and property. It could have led to a split between two congregations but did not.
Monsignor Joseph Mayo took KSL on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Cathedral of the Madeleine, both a beloved house of worship and a beautiful landmark, the site of concerts throughout the year. We went where very few have ever gone - to the roof - for a spectacular view.
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