The following is excerpted from the Church Newsroom. To read the full article, CLICK HERE.
On Sunday, August 31, 2025, Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles concluded a 10-day ministerial tour of West Africa, delivering messages of identity, discipleship and covenant belonging to Latter-day Saints in multiple nations. Accompanied by his wife, Lesa, and also by Elder Alfred Kyungu, President of the Africa West Area, and his wife, Lucie, Elder Stevenson took time to visit with and strengthen members, missionaries and leaders across the region.
Elder and Sister Stevenson visited five countries during their visit, including Ghana, Benin, Senegal, The Gambia and Côte d’Ivoire. Throughout his ministry, Elder Stevenson noted the rapid growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in West Africa, and he encouraged Saints to build upon the sure foundation of Jesus Christ. Elder Stevenson’s teachings focused on the core doctrines of the Restoration, the role of the Holy Ghost and the responsibilities of leaders and missionaries.
Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and his wife, Lesa, visit with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints following a stake conference in Cotonou, Benin, on Sunday, August 24, 2025.
Côte d’Ivoire: A Charge to Youth and Missionaries
In Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, Elder Stevenson addressed a gathering of youth, comparing the spiritual fruits of the gospel to the renowned fruits of the country. He listed these spiritual fruits as “the Book of Mormon, the Bible, the Liahona, the Temple,” and asked the youth to consider their effect in their lives.
He taught the youth, “The Holy Ghost is your constant companion who assists and supports you at all times. To keep Him, you must pray and obey. He will protect you and bless you if you do your best.”
In a separate meeting with 181 missionaries, Elder Stevenson emphasized 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 stressed the critical 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.”
To read the full article, CLICK HERE.
