Imagine a wave of hope sweeping across Central Africa, a surge of faith transforming lives. Elder Ronald A. Rasband, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently concluded a powerful five-country ministry in East and Central Africa, leaving behind a message of optimism and growth. His visit, which ended on Sunday, November 2, 2025, painted a vibrant picture of the gospel's expanding influence in the region.
Elder Rasband declared, "We are on the front edge of the gospel in the Africa Central Area." His statement underscores the significant strides the Church is making in this part of the world. He emphasized that their efforts are laying a solid foundation for the Church to flourish, attract new members, and guide them toward Jesus Christ. This isn't just about adding numbers; it's about building a community of faith.
During this important mission, he was accompanied by his wife, Melanie, Elder Kevin R. Duncan of the Presidency of the Seventy, along with his wife, Nancy, and dedicated members of the Africa Central Area Presidency. Their collective presence symbolized unity and commitment to the Church's mission.
In the Republic of the Congo, Elder Rasband connected with young adults at the BYU–Pathway Global Education Center in Brazzaville. This institution, one of only four such centers worldwide, offers a spiritually enriching, online-based education. Think of it as a beacon of opportunity, providing accessible learning for individuals seeking personal and professional growth.
"As I went from room to room, they were packed with students. They’re not only there for Pathway, but they’re there for institute," Elder Rasband remarked, highlighting the students' eagerness to learn English and deepen their understanding of the gospel. The other Global Education Centers are located in Nigeria, the Philippines, and South Africa, showcasing the global reach of this initiative.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that focusing on English language acquisition is a form of cultural imperialism. Is it truly about empowering individuals, or is it inadvertently prioritizing Western languages and norms? What do you think?
Elder Rasband's journey continued with a boat trip across the Congo River to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This area is experiencing rapid growth within the Church, marked by the establishment of new missions. A monumental event during his visit was the dedication of a brand new missionary training center (MTC) in Kinshasa. "Many young converts are of missionary age, and they want to go on missions. And so, this MTC in the Congo will cater more to the Congolese missionaries," he explained. It's a testament to the local members' dedication and their desire to share their faith.
President Myles Proudfoot, the mission leader at the Democratic Republic of the Congo MTC, added that the center also serves missionaries from other parts of Africa, facilitating language learning in both French and English. Elder Khalifa Kikuli, a missionary from Tanzania, shared his excitement about improving his English skills before serving in the South Africa Johannesburg Mission. Elder Deniel Siles Acquaah, the first Ghanaian missionary to train at the Kinshasa MTC, expressed his honor at being part of this historic event. Sister Julie Proudfoot emphasized the significance of the Apostle's visit in inspiring and encouraging the missionaries to serve wholeheartedly.
In Nairobi, Kenya, Elder Rasband had a heartwarming reunion with young men from South Sudan whom he had met two years prior. He was especially pleased to see that several had accepted his challenge to serve as full-time missionaries. Ten of these young men are currently serving missions, while others are actively involved in their local congregations. This is a powerful example of how personal connection and encouragement can inspire dedication and service.
And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about the numbers of missionaries; it's about the ripple effect of their service, influencing their families, communities, and future generations.
Throughout his ministry, Elder Rasband engaged with high-level government and faith leaders. In Ethiopia, he met with President Taye Atske Selassie and His Holiness Abune Mathias I, the Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. These historic meetings in Addis Ababa fostered mutual understanding and cooperation. In Seychelles, he was warmly received by the new vice president. The Rasbands also joined a local congregation of Latter-day Saints for a sacrament meeting. Pioneers Evan and Marie Healy, returning from Australia, are serving as group leaders in Seychelles, driven by a desire to share the gospel with the people of the island nation.
Reflecting on his ministry, Elder Rasband concluded, "It has been a very broad, excellent trip. I think we have brought people closer to Jesus Christ, which was my ultimate goal everywhere I went." His words encapsulate the essence of his journey: to strengthen faith, build community, and bring individuals closer to the Savior.
What are your thoughts on the Church's growth in Africa? Do you believe that focusing on education and missionary work are the most effective ways to support communities and spread faith? Share your perspective in the comments below!
