Uploaded May 2017 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago

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Kearns, Utah — (KUTV) Tragedy at a reservoir led to healing at a recreation center for a Methodist church in Kearns, Utah.

It all has to do with swimming lessons taught by the pastor.

On June 25, 2016, 31-year-old Penoni Mounga, also known as Noni, lost his life when he drowned while swimming across Blackridge Reservoir in Herriman during a church activity.

Timote Houma, 27, was on the shoreline, and felt helpless because no one knew how to swim.

"It was difficult sitting there on the beach, watching him struggle," Houma said.

Mounga was a member at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Kearns where he was known for his beautiful voice. His death was a devastating blow to members, including Houma.

"He was always happy every time at church," he said. "You could hear his voice singing every time we walked through the halls. His voice uplifted everyone at the church."

That's why the church's pastor, Rob Bruendl, decided to teach his members how to swim.

"Our slogan is 'Never Again.' We never want to lose a person because they can't help themselves," Bruendl said.