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Religious leaders gathered in Buenos Aires for the World Congress on Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue, an event aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and understanding among faith communities. The congress, titled "A Path Towards Peace," took place on March 17, 2025.
Sister Tamara W. Runia, First Counselor in the Young Women General Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, addressed the gathering with a focus on religious freedom. She emphasized that protecting religious rights involves safeguarding the rights of others, even when disagreements arise over beliefs. Sister Runia participated in a panel called “Young Leaders: The Foundation of Interreligious Dialogue in Argentina.”
Another panelist was Sister J. Anette Dennis, First Counselor in the Relief Society General Presidency of the Church. She spoke during a session titled “Solidarity and Social Action: Religions, Politics, and NGOs in Humanitarian Aid.” Sister Dennis highlighted how collaboration between religious groups and humanitarian organizations can amplify social aid efforts.
"Humanitarian work is the common ground that can unite diverse groups in a shared goal,” she stated. “This includes religious institutions and humanitarian organizations, which, by collaborating, achieve greater reach and impact.”
Sister Runia discussed the importance of religious freedom as well as shared responsibility for protecting everyone's rights. She reflected on the "overview effect" experienced by astronauts to illustrate how unity can transform societal interactions.
“We can create this feeling of unity right here in this space and carry it with us when we leave,” she expressed.
Sister Dennis pointed out The Church's recent assistance to families affected by floods in Bahía Blanca as an example of interfaith cooperation during crises.
"We collaborate with other religious and governmental organizations to provide aid and relief to those in need, regardless of their religious affiliation," she added.
Elder Joaquín E. Costa, President of the South America South Area of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, delivered opening remarks emphasizing interreligious dialogue's role in defending religious freedom and promoting faith values.
The congress coincides with The Church's Centennial celebration in South America—a year marked by activities focused on service and interfaith collaboration.
To learn more about these Centennial activities visit centenariosas.org.
