Chile, Peru Officials Visit Church Leaders to Promote Religious Freedom

Government authorities in both Chile and Peru recently met with leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, highlighting ongoing collaboration on humanitarian initiatives and promoting religious freedom and interfaith dialogue.

Chile: Strengthening Interreligious Dialogue and Cooperation

Chilean government authorities made an official visit to the Church’s South America South Area headquarters in Chile on January 30, 2026, to strengthen interfaith dialogue, institutional cooperation and promote religious freedom.

The meeting was led by Elder Joaquín E. Costa, President of the South America South Area, who welcomed Macarena Lobos, Minister Secretary General of the Presidency; Justice Undersecretary Nicolás Facuse; and representatives from the National Office of Religious Affairs (ONAR).

Minister Lobos expressed gratitude for the Church’s consistent support in humanitarian aid, education and community service. She also mentioned the Church’s efforts with ONAR to defend and promote religious freedom in the country.

Discussions focused on the role of faith communities in Chilean society, their contributions to democratic coexistence and the continued importance of collaboration between the government and religious organizations.

ONAR representatives emphasized that these opportunities for dialogue strengthen ties between the state and religious communities while promoting mutual respect and understanding.

Peru: Justice Ministry Leaders Visit Church Offices and MTC

In Peru, Dr. José Fernando Reyes, Director General of Justice and Religious Freedom for the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights, visited the administrative offices of the Church’s South America Northwest Area. He was accompanied by María Esperanza Adrianzén, Director of Interfaith Affairs.

The visit on Tuesday, February 3, included a tour of the Peru Missionary Training Center (MTC), where officials observed missionary preparation and training programs. The Directorate General of Justice and Religious Freedom conducts periodic visits to religious organizations in the country with the aim of learning more about their structure and work.

Elder Juan Pablo Villar, President of the South America Northwest Area of the Church, welcomed the delegation and discussed the importance of religious liberty and several initiatives designed to strengthen it nationwide. Elder Villar also presented the delegation with a copy of the Book of Mormon.

The Directorate General of Justice and Religious Freedom is responsible for coordinating with public and private institutions and facilitating relations between the executive branch and religious organizations.