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Elder Gerrit W. Gong of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints visited Mexico to share a message about the peace and inspiration found in temples. During a devotional broadcast on February 9, 2025, titled "The House of the Lord," Elder Gong encouraged individuals to seek a deeper connection with the divine in these sacred spaces.
"Mexico has been blessed with many temples," Elder Gong stated, highlighting the benefits of regularly visiting these holy places. He was joined by his wife, Susan, Elder Marcus B. Nash of the Presidency of the Seventy, and other church leaders from Mexico.
Speaking in Spanish, Elder Gong expressed his love for these sacred sites: "[God] would say to us, 'My house is your house.' Holiness to the Lord makes daily life sacred, brings us closer to the Lord and makes us happier." He emphasized that temples prepare believers for eternal life with their Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ.
Elder Gong urged church leaders to help new members understand the importance of temple visits and encouraged bringing ancestors' names as a way to strengthen family bonds. "In the chain of our eternal family, each of us can be a strong link," he said. "During life's challenges, the holy house of the Lord gives us faith, hope, and strength."
He also noted developments such as temple growth in Mexico and invited everyone to find peace within these sacred spaces.
In another meeting with new church members in northern Mexico City, Elder Gong advised them to be "a strong link in their generations." Elder Nash reminded them that following Christ involves faith and repentance: "If we have a close relationship with Him and trust Him, the path will be joyful."
Listening to conversion stories from attendees, including those returning to church activity or learning from missionaries, Elder Gong promised: "Your future is full of divine potential. Prepare for the temple."
Elder Sean Douglas emphasized baptism as "the gateway to the temple," while Sister Ann Douglas encouraged steadfastness in Christ. Sister Gong highlighted prayer's importance and accepting callings within church communities.
Addressing seminary teachers and institute directors in Mexico, Elder Gong used an analogy about seeds and apples to illustrate their role in preparing young people as disciples of Christ. He stressed teaching with love through scriptures: "Great teachers love their students... Your task is to ignite the spirits of young people so that they become disciples of Christ."
