Colombia Earthquake Relief Front and Center as Elder Stevenson Meets Cali Mayor

In the wake of a recent earthquake that struck southwest Colombia, Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints met on Monday, August 24, 2026, with Santiago de Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder to review ongoing emergency aid and discuss long-term recovery for affected families.

Church members, mental health professionals and local volunteers have mobilized across Cali — a critical healthcare hub for the region — to deliver food kits, assist at collection centers, and provide emotional support to survivors.

“Caring for those in need is at the very heart of the gospel of Jesus Christ,” Elder Stevenson emphasized, noting the Church’s priority to help families move beyond initial relief toward sustainable self-reliance.

The Apostle was joined by Elder Juan Pablo Villar, president of the Church’s South America Northwest Area. The South American leader outlined ongoing self-reliance and community aid initiatives, while Mayor Eder expressed gratitude for the prompt humanitarian support.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Elder Stevenson presented Mayor Eder with a framed copy of “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.”

Earlier in the day, Elder Stevenson and his wife, Lesa, visited the under-construction Cali Colombia Temple. Later that evening, he and Sister Stevenson mourned with, comforted and blessed Latter-day Saints affected by the earthquake.