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Elder Ulisses Soares of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed global faith leaders in Washington, D.C., emphasizing that religious freedom is crucial for achieving peace and stability worldwide. Speaking at the opening reception of the 2025 International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit, held at the House of the Americas, Elder Soares highlighted that dialogue and action are essential paths to peace.
He referenced Brazil as an example where religious harmony has been maintained despite diverse faiths. “Religious freedom scholar Brian Grim observed that, ‘Given the level of religious switching in Brazil, it is particularly notable that … there have been no reported incidents of hostility over conversions or proselytism,’” he said. He emphasized that while not perfect, dialogue between various religious communities has managed tensions.
Elder Soares explained why religious liberty is important: “These virtues flowing from a flourishing and diverse religious landscape serve to mend and tighten the fabric of our shared world in ways perhaps nothing else can, leading in turn to the united and peaceful societies for which we yearn.”
Concluding his speech, he referred to Church President Russell M. Nelson’s call for peacemakers: “While peacebuilding does not always come easily or naturally, it is a prize worthy of our finest and most determined efforts.” He encouraged all to become better peacemakers both locally and globally.
Later at a Q&A session with Baptist Pastor Bob Roberts Jr., cofounder of the Multi-Faith Neighbors Network (MFNN), Elder Soares discussed his background and interfaith interactions. He stated, “I don’t believe that differences in opinion or theology or the way we think cause us to be enemies or unfriendly to each other.” The two leaders met previously at an interfaith dinner in Dallas.
Pastor Roberts expressed enthusiasm about future collaboration with Elder Soares and The Church of Jesus Christ: “I want to do a whole lot together, and so does he.” He noted their shared belief in accountability for being blessings to others.
Both leaders underscored their commitment to promoting religious freedom through cross-cultural relationships and working together across faiths for common goals.
