Apostle Encourages South American Young Professionals to be Examples of Jesus Christ

Between his ministry visit to Brazil and the dedication of the Bahía Blanca Argentina Temple, Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints participated in the 7th annual Seminario Sudamericano (or Latter-day Saint South American Seminar) on Friday, November 21, 2025, in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

“Today’s world needs integrity, empathy and moral clarity. These qualities grow where discipleship runs deep. That is why it is so important to reinforce the idea that, as disciples of Christ, we set an example not only in religious matters but in conduct, integrity, compassion and relationships — with people, with governments, with everyone in the world,” said Elder Soares.

This year marks 100 years since Elder Melvin J. Ballard, an Apostle of the Church, traveled to Argentina and offered a dedicatory prayer for the preaching of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ in South America on Christmas Day, December 25, 1925.

“Bless the presidents, governors and leading officials of these [South] American countries that they may kindly receive us and give us permission to open the doors of salvation to the peoples of these lands. May they be blessed in administering the affairs of their several offices that great good may come unto the people, that peace may be upon these nations,” Ballard prayed.

Before leaving Argentina, Ballard predicted that the Church would initially grow “just as an oak grows slowly from an acorn.” But, he promised, the day would come when “thousands would join the Church [in South America.]”

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This centennial anniversary inspired the conference’s theme: “Roots of the Restoration in South America: A Century to Inspire the Next Decade.”

“The same spirit that inspired Elder Ballard to dedicate this land speaks to hearts today and continues to inspire us, calling teachers to elevate minds, leaders to defend freedom, families to build Zion in their homes, and youth to carry the light of the gospel to every nation,” said Elder Soares.

He continued, “We are not merely witnessing the fulfillment of prophecy; we are participants in its unfolding. The Lord’s work is not static but dynamic. Its vitality depends on our courage to act, our willingness to serve, and our faith to believe that miracles are still possible.”

“Listening to Elder Soares’s perspective on the vision Elder Ballard had 100 years ago fueled us with joy and renewed energy to have courage and joy when we go forth and open our arms and our hearts to our South American brothers and sisters,” said Romanna Remor, President of the Roble Sul Foundation.

This annual initiative includes a conference designed to engage young Latter-day Saints from 10 South American countries who want to give back to their communities and nations through public engagement and service.

“It is often said, “Preach the gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words.” I believe that participating in and serving the community is a way of preaching the gospel,” said Mauricio Pacheco, a participant in the event from Ecuador.

“We strongly believe that our young professionals have great potential to go forth and make a difference in their communities by applying the principles of the gospel and by being examples of Jesus Christ. We know that leaders can be better leaders if they follow the example of Jesus Christ,” Remor said.

Scholars and early Church members presented the history of the Church in South America and explored its historical relationship with governments across the continent.

“The Church is very careful about respecting the laws of each country. This relationship between the Church and local governments [allows] the Church to bring more people to Christ,” said Clara Schettini, a historian who presented during the conference.

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Other topics discussed during the four-day seminar included religious freedom and public policy.

“An intellect grounded in faith is one of the greatest positive influences in the modern world. In interfaith dialogue, building bridges means discovering common moral ground while respecting doctrinal differences. It means finding a shared cause in defending the dignity of every soul, protecting religious freedom, and promoting peace,” said the Apostle.