The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has donated $250,000 to support the ongoing reinstatement of Christ Church Cathedral.

The contribution has been announced as work continues to restore one of Christchurch’s most recognisable and significant landmarks.

Church leaders said the donation reflected a commitment to strengthening communities and supporting projects that preserve places of cultural, historical and spiritual importance.

Christ Church Cathedral has long been a defining symbol of the city. Its reinstatement has been described as not only the restoration of a building, but also a symbol of renewal and hope following the devastating 2011 earthquakes.

Elder Peter F. Meurs, Pacific Area President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said the contribution was offered in a spirit of goodwill and unity.

“We recognise the deep significance of Christ Church Cathedral to the people of Christchurch and to many across New Zealand,” Meurs said.

“As followers of Jesus Christ, we believe in building strong communities and extending friendship across faiths. We are grateful for the opportunity to support the restoration of this important place of worship and heritage in the city of Christchurch.”

Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Ltd Chair Steve Wakefield said the organisation was immensely grateful for the support.

“Across faiths, there is a shared understanding that spiritual places matter. They provide reflection, sanctuary and connection for communities,” Wakefield said.

“When Christ Church Cathedral reopens, it will welcome people of all faiths and none.”

It is not the first time the reinstatement project has received interfaith support. In 2023, the project received a significant gift from the New Zealand Buddhist community.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said it worked closely with community, civic and faith leaders throughout the Pacific to foster cooperation, encourage service and promote mutual respect among people of all beliefs.

It said the donation formed part of broader efforts to support community resilience and recovery, while backing projects that bring people together and strengthen the social fabric of Christchurch and New Zealand.