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The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square has arrived in Buenos Aires, Argentina, as part of its “Songs of Hope” world tour. The visit coincides with the centennial celebration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ presence in South America.
Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Mary, are accompanying the Choir during this stop. The Choir’s three concerts in Argentina mark 100 years since missionaries began preaching the restored gospel in South America.
“We are here to celebrate the growth of the Church, and [we] know that more growth will continue to happen in the coming years,” said Kristi Burgess, a member of The Tabernacle Choir. “And more than anything, we have the opportunity to share our testimonies of Jesus Christ.”
Other Church leaders present include Elders Joaquin E. Costa, Alan R. Walker, and Eduardo Gavarrett from the South America South Area Presidency; President Michael O. Leavitt, L. Whitney Clayton, and Gary B. Porter from The Tabernacle Choir Presidency; and Gordon and Sharon Smith from Church Hosting.
On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, these leaders attended a ceremony at Buenos Aires’ Senate building where Senator Carolina Losada presented a diploma honoring the Church’s century-long service in Argentina.
This recognition highlighted both the anniversary and what was described as “invaluable service and contribution to Argentine society, promoting values of faith and community service.”
“We are celebrating 100 years of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Argentina — a Church that has been an example of solidarity and of the values we all should uphold: Love for others, regardless of political views, religion or nationality, is what truly matters,” Sen. Losada said. “I thank you for your interest in our country and your commitment to growing your Church in Argentina.”
Elder Cook expressed appreciation for this honor while recalling how Elder Melvin J. Ballard visited Buenos Aires a century ago to pray for acceptance of their message across South America.
Initially slow-growing as predicted by Elder Ballard at that time, membership on the continent now exceeds two million people.
“[South America] is a powerful force in the Church and a powerful force for good,” said Elder Cook.
Senator Losada also spoke about members striving to be good neighbors—an idea echoed by Elder Cook: “She talked about being good neighbors, and for us accountability to God means that we will try and be good neighbors. It means we will participate in humanitarian efforts. It means that we will work with others for religious freedom. It means that we will be kind and generous with our neighbors,” he said.
Gustavo Guillermé—president of the World Congress for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue—attended both events: “I want to congratulate you for being part of a Church that continually works to support others regardless of their faith,” he stated during his remarks at the senate ceremony before referencing humanitarian work done globally by church members including responses after hurricanes or famine crises abroad as well as local outreach within Argentina itself.
Guillermé added: “In 100 years they’ve grown tremendously—not just in members but in their outreach across the country... When leaders live what they preach... They have leaders I truly admire for the work they do.”
The first concert took place at Palacio Libertad on August 19 featuring guest artist Raúl Lavié performing traditional Argentine songs alongside the Choir—a moment audience member Richard Crespo called spectacular: “With inclusion of great singer Raúl performing songs from our own culture—it was truly spectacular... just incredible.” Guillermé noted afterward: “Honestly after hearing these hymns you leave theater with your spirit changed.”
Brenda Scazzina—a local church member—shared her reaction after attending both arrival festivities at airport and opening concert: “I felt my heart beating whole time... For me it was dream come true... They’ve brought me peace joy hope love—and above all desire follow Jesus Christ.”
The program included hymns such as "Three Hallelujahs," American spirituals like "My God Is So High" along with Argentine pieces such as "Golondrinas" plus inspirational selections like "The Spirit Of God."
“It was deeply moving,” Crespo said about his experience at Palacio Libertad.“It felt like there were two pillars—one supporting all structure/perfection behind choir’s work another something spiritual hard put into words…a spiritual experience created truly touching.”
Additional performances are scheduled Friday August 22nd & Saturday August 23rd at Movistar Arena—with Saturday’s event set for broadcast throughout South America & Caribbean regions.
