LDS Scene

The city of Campinas, Brazil, second largest in the state of São Paulo, has named the public square in front of the Campinas Stake Center “Joseph Smith Square.” Campinas followed a precedent set by Curitiba, capital of the state of Parana, which named a public square there in honor of the LDS Prophet and Church founder. Campinas Brazil Stake President Sebastião Oliveira participated in the ceremonies, along with city officials. A large marker in the square contains the Prophet’s name, information about his position, and the words “The glory of God is intelligence” with the scripture reference (D&C 93:36). It is a custom in Latin America to name public squares after important individuals, and the number of LDS Church members in Brazil makes them a significant group.