100-Year-Old Church in the U.S. Transformed into Hindu Temple by Swaminarayan Sect
A 100-year-old church in the United States has been transformed into a Hindu temple. Idols of Hindu deities have now been installed, and regular worship and rituals have begun.
While stories of religious conversions—either voluntary or through coercion—are not uncommon, this case is very different. It’s not about the conversion of people, but of a place of worship.
The transformation took place in Cleveland, Ohio, where the Swaminarayan sect purchased the old church for ₹180 crore (approximately $22 million). Over two years, the church was carefully renovated into a temple, without altering its original architecture. The temple now features domes and spires inspired by traditional Indian temple design.
The total land area of the property is 4.13 acres, and the building—previously a church—covers 19,000 square feet. Nearly $1 million was spent on the restoration to make the space suitable for temple use while preserving its architectural integrity.
This story reflects how Indian communities abroad are preserving and strengthening their cultural and religious identity.
Dr. Santvallabh Swami, president of the Vadtal Gadi, provided details about three temples established in the U.S. by the Swaminarayan sect:
- Nitya Swaroop Swami Sardar in Cleveland, Ohio
- Bhaktiprakash Swami in Raleigh, North Carolina
- Devprakashdasji Swami in Fremont, San Jose, California
All three temples feature intricately crafted idols and thrones made in India and sent by the Vadtal institution. Rakeshprasadji Maharaj will conduct the consecration (Pran-Pratishtha) ceremonies at all three temples. The temples house idols of Lord Swaminarayan along with other Hindu deities.
Government Approvals for Temple Conversion
Over 15 types of official approvals were required to convert the church into a temple, including:
- Zoning approval
- Building permits
- Fire safety compliance
- Water and sanitation clearance
- Construction and plan approvals
- Electrical and roofing clearance
- Glass thickness compliance
- Water and drainage permits
- Landscaping and parking permits (traffic management)
Only after a final inspection by city building officials is the Certificate of Occupancy (CO) issued, permitting the building to be used as a temple.
What Does This Temple Mean for the Local Gujarati Community?
- A center for religious and cultural connection
- Blessings and daily spiritual guidance from saints
- Moral education for children and youth
- Preservation of community values and traditions
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