Official Statement

Desmond Tutu will 'leave an indelible legacy'

The presidency of the Church in the Africa South Area shares its condolences with those who mourn the passing of South Africa's Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.

The leaders and members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Africa South Area join hands with millions around the world in mourning the loss of South African struggle icon and statesman Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.

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Desmond_Tutu_-_Kirchentag_Cologne_2007_(7137).jpeg
South Africa's Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu speaks in Cologne on June 7, 2007. © Raimond Spekking / CC BY-SA 4.0 (via Wikimedia Commons)
 

Nobel peace laureate Archbishop Tutu was a fearless opponent of oppression and a prominent leader in the fight against apartheid in South Africa.

His messages, from pulpits to tables of negotiation, were consistent: that all of God's children deserve equal opportunities; and that empathy, tolerance and forgiveness are transcendent principles that can help heal humankind.

Our thoughts and sincere prayers are with the people of South Africa, and all who knew him across the world.

We honour his life-long service. His pastoral ministry and inspiring work in promoting peace, reconciliation, and human rights will leave an indelible legacy for generations to come.

South African flag
South African flag
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We affirm our conviction of the soul’s immortal nature and the knowledge that we can join with loved ones after this mortal life has ended. We further testify that the atonement and resurrection of Jesus Christ opens that pathway to all.

May the comfort and strength that comes through the Saviour’s grace be felt by all—especially Mama Leah Tutu and the entire Tutu family.

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