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The Congress of Colombia has awarded The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints the Order of Democracy Simón Bolívar in the rank of Commander’s Cross. The ceremony took place on July 24, 2025, in Bogotá and recognized the Church’s contributions to spiritual development, morality, and service.
Elder Juan Pablo Villar from the South America Northwest Area Presidency accepted the honor from Congresswoman Betsy Pérez Arango. “We are very grateful and humbled to receive this recognition from such an honorable institution as Congress, which represents all citizens of this great nation,” Elder Villar said. “As members of the Church, we follow the example of Jesus Christ by helping those most in need.”
Elder Villar also emphasized collaboration with local organizations to expand their community impact. “We know that we can achieve much more when we serve together,” he stated.
Congresswoman Pérez Arango commented on the significance of service: “This recognition of the Church of Jesus Christ stems from appreciation for its vocation of service. One does not serve to receive praise but because it is an act of faith and love. The best way to serve the Lord is to serve His brothers and sisters.”
Elder Villar added, “The Lord Jesus Christ extended His hand to comfort and heal. That is what we seek to do. This distinction motivates us to continue holding hands and easing burdens.”
The Church currently has over 217,000 members across 260 congregations in Colombia. Over the past fifty years, it has carried out 154 humanitarian aid projects throughout the country.
Elder Yan Carlos Vega, an Area Seventy, remarked on receiving the award: “It has been a wonderful experience for the Church to receive the Commander’s Cross in recognition of all the humanitarian aid it provides in our country and around the world. The Church does not seek this type of recognition, but feels deeply honored by this important distinction. This motivates us to be more Christian, more kind, more charitable, and to follow the example of the Savior Jesus Christ.”
The ceremony was held at Congress’s Elliptical Hall with legislative authorities, religious leaders, representatives from The Church of Jesus Christ and media present.
