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Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles dedicated the Antofagasta Chile Temple on June 15, 2025. During the dedication, Elder Stevenson emphasized that temples are places where individuals can learn about God's plan and make covenants with Him and Jesus Christ.
"We are children of a loving Heavenly Father who desires that we return and live in His presence as an eternal family," Elder Stevenson stated, coinciding with Father's Day celebrations in many parts of the world.
He highlighted that temples play a crucial role in helping people reach their divine potential and are centered on families. "Understanding the eternal nature of the temple will draw you closer to your family; understanding the eternal nature of the family will draw you closer to the temple," he explained. He added that sacred ordinances performed in temples bind families together eternally.
"This is, as words carved over its doors proclaim, 'The house of the Lord,'" Elder Stevenson remarked about the new temple.
The Antofagasta Chile Temple is now one of 207 dedicated temples for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints worldwide and is the third in Chile. Three more temples have been announced or are under construction in Chile.
"This temple dedication serves as a testament to the patience, strength, and devotion of the Saints who reside in this beautiful region of Chile," said Elder Stevenson. "For me, this shows the love of the Lord for His Latter-day Saints in Chile and allows us to rejoice in being together at this temple dedication today."
President Russell M. Nelson had announced plans for a temple in Antofagasta during an April 2019 general conference.
Accompanying Elder Stevenson at this dedicatory service were his wife Lesa; Elder Kevin R. Duncan, General Authority Seventy and executive director of the Church’s Temple Department; his wife Nancy; Elder Eduardo Gavarret, General Authority Seventy and Second Counselor in South America South Area Presidency; and his wife Norma.
Missionaries first arrived in Antofagasta in 1966, with its first stake organized by 1980. Today, eight stakes and one district form part of its temple district.
President David A. Reyes Torres from Antofagasta Chile La Portada Stake expressed gratitude for having a house of worship nearby: “A testament to His mercy and a demonstration...that He hears prayers.” President Reyes also noted how it brings joy through unity within families by connecting them eternally through Christ's Atonement.
