General Authorities , Gerrit W. Gong
2 min read
జూన్ 5 నుండి 15, 2025 వరకు, యేసుక్రీస్తు కడవరి దిన పరిశుద్ధుల సంఘం యొక్క పన్నెండు మంది అపోస్తలుల సమూహానికి చెందిన ఎల్డర్ గెరిట్ డబ్ల్యూ. గాంగ్, మధ్య ఐరోపాలో పరిచర్య పర్యటనను నిర్వహించారు . ఈ పర్యటనలో జర్మనీ, స్విట్జర్లాండ్, ఆస్ట్రియా, అల్బేనియా, ఉత్తర మాసిడోనియా మరియు కొసావో దేశాలు ఉన్నాయి.
Accompanied by his wife, Sister Susan Gong, he shared messages of faith, hope, and unity. His words touched thousands of people and strengthened ties with religious and civic leaders.
The visit began in Wiesbaden, Germany. More than 3,000 people attended a multiregional conference. Using German phrases and a friendly approach, Elder Gong taught that the gospel should be a welcoming place for everyone.
“No one should sit alone,
neither in church nor in life.”
Days later, at a special conference in Munich, he encouraged members to follow the example of the Good Samaritan. He invited them to be compassionate, attentive, and willing to help others. He was accompanied by Elder Jack N. Gerard of the Central Europe Area Presidency and other local leaders.
During his time in the Balkans, Elder Gong held several significant meetings . In Albania, he met with the Deputy Foreign Minister. He expressed his gratitude for religious freedom and spoke about the importance of strong, supportive communities.
In North Macedonia, he visited a hospital that benefited from Church donations. There he announced new aid to strengthen emergency services. He also met with government officials and stressed the importance of educating young people in values and responsibility.
In Kosovo, he spoke with the Grand Mufti and the Prime Minister. Together they reflected on how to help young people face their challenges through faith, education, and family.
A touching moment occurred at a local devotional. A young blind man approached Elder Gong. The apostle took the man's hands and placed them against his face, allowing him to "see" him through touch. The gesture left a profound spiritual impression on those present.
In Switzerland, the Gongs led a devotional with young adults in the Bern Temple. Sister Gong spoke about kintsugi , the Japanese art of repairing with gold, as a symbol of the value of our healed scars.
Back in Germany, the messages continued. They focused on spiritual preparation and allowing God to prevail in daily life. Local leaders testified that it is always possible to change and find freedom in Christ.
Throughout the ten days, Elder Gong's message was clear and consistent: the gospel of Jesus Christ brings hope, comfort, and belonging. His invitation was direct: help ensure that no one walks through life alone.
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