Belonging and Bridge-Building: Elder Gong Inspires Communities and Leaders in Central Europe

Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints completed a ministry tour to Central Europe from June 5–15, 2025, inspiring thousands and strengthening ties with civic and religious leaders in several Balkan countries. His trip also included visits to Germany and Switzerland.

Germany: Messages of Belonging and Hope

Elder Gong began his visit with a multiregional conference in Wiesbaden, Germany, with over 3,000 members and friends of the Church. He taught, using German expressions of belonging and peace, that the restored gospel is a home for all and no one should sit alone — in church or in life.

The full article on his visit to Wiesbaden can be read here.

This same spirit continued at a special stake conference held at the Munich Science Congress Center on June 15, with more than 1,000 participants from the Munich and Salzburg areas. Elder Gong invited everyone to promise to be the most welcoming people—like the Good Samaritan who ensured that no one was left alone. Elder Gong was accompanied by his wife Sister Susan Gong, as well by Elder Jack N. Gerard of the Europe Central Area Presidency and his wife, Claudette. Other leaders present were  Elder Yves Weidmann, an Area Seventy; President and Sister Bates, Mission Leaders of the Alpine German-speaking Mission; and the Stake Presidents for the invited regions, President Jendrik Hasse from Munich and President David Roth from Salzburg.

Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo: Strengthening Friendships and Service

In Tirana, Elder Gong met with Ms. Silda Cepe, Albania’s Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, to express gratitude for religious freedom and discuss building strong, responsible communities. He then encouraged local members to strengthen families and share Christ’s light.

In Skopje, North Macedonia, Elder Gong visited a major hospital where Church donations have saved lives and announced further support for expanding emergency care. He also met with Mr. Zoran Dimitrovski, the Deputy Foreign Minister, highlighting the Church’s collaboration with local institutions and its emphasis on cultivating law-abiding, responsible youth.

In Kosovo, Elder Gong held thoughtful discussions with Sheikh Naim Ternava, the Grand Mufti and spiritual leader of the Islamic community in the country, as well as Mr. Albin Kurti, the Prime Minister, about helping youth navigate modern challenges with faith, education, and family identity.

A local devotional included a touching moment with Elder Gong greeting a blind young man, gently guiding the individual’s hands to his face - allowing him to “see” through touch. The gesture brought joy and reverence, echoing the compassion seen in the Savior’s ministry and left lasting warmth and hope.

A full report on Elder Gong’s visits to Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo can be read here.

Messages of Hope and Preparation for People from Switzerland, Austria and Southern Germany:

On their stop in Switzerland, Elder and Sister Gong visited with several members, including Young Adults, for a special devotional at the Bern Switzerland Temple.

Back in Germany, at the Munich stake conference, Sister Gong shared the concept of Kintsugi — the Japanese art of golden repair — teaching that when something broken is repaired with care, it becomes more beautiful and precious: our healed scars can make us more beautiful and strong.

Elder Gerard reminded the audience what a blessing it is to hear the Lord’s voice through His chosen servant and spoke of the power of sincere prayer — and the importance of listening quietly for answers, just as young Joseph Smith did when he testified, “I have learned for myself.”

Sister Gerard invited everyone to spiritually prepare for the new temple in Vienna Austria, encouraging all to draw physically and spiritually closer to the Lord.

Other speakers, including President Jendrik Hasse and President David Roth, testified that no situation is too hopeless to repent and that through Christ, captives are freed as we let God prevail in our lives. They urged listeners to examine whether their daily actions lead to spiritual freedom or captivity.

Throughout his 10-day ministry, Elder Gong’s message was consistent: the gospel of Jesus Christ offers belonging, hope, and refuge for all — and each of us can help ensure no one walks life’s path alone.