Chile

In May 1955 the Argentine Mission received First Presidency approval to send missionaries to Chile. The next year elders arrived in the capital, Santiago. Elder Henry D. Moyle (1889–1963) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles joined them in July 1956 to establish the first Chilean branch. Just a few months later, the first Chileans were baptized.

As membership grew, so did the Church organization. In October 1961 the Chilean Mission was organized, and in 1983, Chileans were blessed with their own temple, dedicated in Santiago by President Gordon B. Hinckley (1910–2008). Following extensive renovations to the temple, President Hinckley rededicated it in 2006.

Here are a few facts about the Church in Chile today:

Membership	548,628
Missions	9
Stakes	75
Districts	24
Wards and Branches	612
Temples in Operation	1

Peace in the Temple

I prepared spiritually to go to the temple, but even so, I didn’t feel worthy. Then the bishop told me that because I was trying to keep the commandments, I was worthy. I didn’t have to be perfect.

Since entering a holy temple, I realize that I am blessed for performing sacred ordinances. I feel safe and protected.

Luis Medina Chávez, Chile

A view of Santiago, Chile’s capital city.

In 1956 Elder Henry D. Moyle of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles organized the first branch in Chile.

The celestial room in the Santiago Chile Temple.