James D. and Diane Mathews

We often quote and feel like President Spencer W. Kimball who said that “every Latter-day Saint should visit the Holy Land.” He said, “It helped me and I know that it would help you to visit the land of Israel, which is one of the greatest highlights in an individual’s life.” We love the land and the people, and we find so much gratification in taking others to this special place and in sharing with them my knowledge and feelings.

James D. Mathews was born in Delta, Utah, and grew up in Nephi, Utah. He received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Religious Education degrees from Brigham Young University. He has taught with the Church Educational System for 38 years, serving as Institute Director at Utah Technical College, LDS Business College, and South City Institute of Religion, adjacent to Salt Lake Community College. He has also been a Division Coordinator for CES in the North Central States and Principal of Indian Seminaries in Brigham City, Utah, and Riverside, California.

Brother Mathews served in the Southwest Indian Mission (1954–56).  He received the Lamanite Leadership Award and an Outstanding Leadership Achievement Award from LDS Business College. He has been a Bishop, Branch President, and counselor in two mission presidencies. He was a tour host at Temple Square in Salt Lake City. He is still teaching Church Education Classes in the Davis area.

Diane Malmgren Mathews grew up in Gunnison, Utah. She has a Cosmetology Instructors License, has been a Beauty Salon owner and is a Real Estate Specialist.

James & Diane have directed numerous tours to the Holy Land, Israel & Egypt also Athens, Greek and the Turkey Islands. They have also directed tours to the Book of Mormon lands in Mexico and Guatemala.  James studied Hebrew at the Jewish Community Center in Salt Lake City and also spent time in Israel at a Jewish School.

The Mathews have eight children and several grandchildren that have traveled with them.  Elder & Sister Mathews served a two year mission to Calgary Canada Mission (2003- 2004).   In 2005, they served a mission in Salt Lake City, Utah in the Church History department. 

The Mathews reside in Bountiful, Utah and enjoy their family, gardening and traveling.

Tours Guided by James D. and Diane Mathews



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