A young elder serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from São Paulo, Brazil, passed away Monday after collapsing during a soccer game with other missionaries.
Elder Joao Victor Rodrigues Gondim was 20 years old and had been serving in the Portugal Lisbon mission since July 2017.
The cause of his death is, as yet, unknown.
“Our hearts go out to his family as they mourn his passing,” the Church said in an official statement, “We pray they will feel peace and support during this difficult time. The Church is working to provide counseling to those missionaries who witnessed this tragedy.”
Erika P.January 30, 2019
Imagine the joy this young Missionary will feel when reporting to the Lord. I am sure that his work is continuing on the other side of the veil and that his ancestors were waiting.. even though the family will miss him, imagine the joy the reunion with him and the family members he will be teaching will bring. I hope that you, despite the temporary loss, can feel the love of the Lord. May he bless you for all you are sacrificing now.