Elder Gary E. Stevenson concludes 10-day ministry to Latter-day Saints in West Africa

Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles recently concluded a 10-day ministry to West Africa, where he delivered messages on identity, discipleship and covenant belonging, according to ChurchofJesusChrist.org, the Church’s website. From Aug. 22 to 31, Elder Stevenson visited five countries: Ghana, Benin, Senegal, The Gambia and Ivory Coast. He was accompanied by his wife, Sister Lesa Stevenson, and by Elder Alfred Kyungu, a General Authority Seventy and president of the Church’s Africa West Area, and Sister Lucie Kyungu.

Throughout the trip, Elder Stevenson noted the rapid growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in these countries. He encouraged local members to build upon Jesus Christ as their sure foundation and taught core doctrines of the Restoration, the role of the Holy Ghost, and the responsibilities of leaders and missionaries.

In Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, Elder Stevenson spoke to youth about the fruits of the gospel, comparing them to the fruits grown in their country. He named the Book of Mormon, the Bible and the temple as spiritual fruits. “The Holy Ghost is your constant companion who assists and supports you at all times,” Elder Stevenson said. “To keep Him, you must pray and obey. He will protect you and bless you if you do your best.”

Elder Stevenson also addressed 181 missionaries, emphasizing the divinity of their calling. “You are the full-time representatives of God,” he said. “You will face challenging situations. Know that this is part of God’s plan and that the Lord will consecrate your trials for your benefit.” He also stressed the importance of extending invitations: “A lesson without an invitation is a waste of time. It should be accompanied by follow-up and blessings. Bear testimony at the end of the invitation.”

In Cotonou, Benin, more than 3,200 Church members and friends attended a special stake conference with Elder Stevenson, according to the report. It was only the second time an Apostle has visited the country. His message focused on five foundational truths of the restored gospel, and he invited listeners to consider the vision of the tree of life, which the report says symbolizes the gospel’s joy. He also spoke of the Holy Ghost as a divine companion and promised that those who devote their daily efforts to living the gospel “will come to know Jesus Christ as their Savior and understand the power of His Atonement.”

In Kumasi, Ghana, Elder Stevenson met with 674 leaders from six stakes and five districts. He counseled them on their responsibilities of living the gospel, caring for those in need, inviting all to receive the gospel and uniting families for eternity. He told the leaders that this work “is not merely a program but is the essence of their service,” and encouraged them to focus on these fundamentals to build a strong, resilient community of Latter-day Saints.

In The Gambia, Elder Stevenson urged missionaries, priesthood leaders and members to guard their testimonies and press on with faith. He assured them the Church will grow in the country and encouraged local members to “be proud pioneers.” He also exhorted those gathered to love, share and invite others to come unto Christ in more normal and natural ways.

In Dakar, Senegal, Elder Stevenson met with Church members in small hotel conference rooms. He first met with the missionaries serving in Senegal, eight young companionships and one senior couple, and emphasized two messages: the significance of the First Vision and the divinity of a missionary’s call and assignment (Colossians 3:23).

Source: Read the original report