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As part of the 100th anniversary celebration of the dedication of South America for the preaching of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ, an event filled with music, dance, and remembrance took place in Santiago, Chile, on June 14, 2025. Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles addressed 4,000 members and friends of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who attended in person, while over 10,000 participated via a nationwide broadcast.
“It was stunning to see their hearts filled with happiness and joy," Elder Stevenson said. He described the event as a vibrant display of pageantry and music that brought smiles to both participants and audience members.
Elder Stevenson emphasized that such celebrations embody “the essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ, a gospel of glad tidings.” He noted that this night offered attendees an opportunity to reflect on the century-long growth facilitated by countless Latter-day Saints.
Anne Sánchez, a local member, expressed her feelings about commemorating sacrifices made over the years: “An opportunity to celebrate that the Church is here and living.” Washington Calquin, another member with deep family roots in the Church, remarked on witnessing significant growth across all Americas due to Jesus Christ's influence.
The centennial marks a hundred years since Elder Melvin J. Ballard's historic prayer in Argentina on December 25, 1925. Ballard predicted slow initial growth akin to "an oak growing from an acorn" but foresaw thousands joining eventually. Today there are over four million Church members in South America.
Celebrations focusing on different countries' histories will continue throughout the year. In addition to events in Chile, Elder Stevenson visited Omner Pratt’s gravesite—a site marking early missionary efforts by Parley P. Pratt—and thanked cemetery caretakers for honoring Omner’s memory despite past earthquake damage.
Prior to his time in Chile, Elder Stevenson traveled with Elder Joaquin Costa to Ushuaia, Argentina—known as “End of the World”—where they met with Mayor Walter Vuoto. They shared messages encouraging families within local congregations.
