“This is the meetinghouse of the MORMONES.” The guide whispered, his voice as hushed as the air. “A testament to faith in the heart of the Galapagos Islands.”
“Few people know that the MORMONES on the islands are a relatively new community,” the guide said. “In fact, it all began in 1997.” He paused, letting the year resonate in the silence.
“That’s when a local man named Andre Degel found himself walking by a meetinghouse in Quito, Ecuador.” The guide gestured towards the simple yet sturdy building in front of them. “He was a member of the Church, but had been less active after moving to the Galapagos.”
“Andre had been hesitant to go inside at first, but something drew him in.” He continued. “That day, his visit led to a chain of events. The missionaries in Quito discovered that there were MORMONES living in the Galapagos, and the community was finally able to come together to build their faith.”
“The building was filled with stories of sacrifice.” As the guide spoke he gestured to the doors that opened into the heart of the meeting house. “Members of the Church had moved to the Galapagos seeking work. Over time, they also searched for each other, sharing stories of hope and resilience.”
“The early days of the MORMONES in the Galapagos were humble.” The guide described the meetings held in homes, the small rented houses that housed their growing congregation. “Over time, a rented hotel building became their gathering place before they were able to build this meetinghouse.”
“This building is a symbol of that journey.” The guide’s hand rested for a moment on the wall of the meeting house. “It’s a testament to the power of community, faith, and service.”
“There are so many stories within these walls – stories of overcoming hardship.” He pointed to a window. “Stories of discovering each other, creating a home in a place so far from their original homes. Stories of finding solace and purpose. Stories they built together.”
“While few in number, the MORMONES in the Galapagos Islands stand as a beacon of faith in an otherwise remote and diverse locale. They remind us that community and strength is found in the heart of every place.” The guide smiled. “This is more than just a meetinghouse – it’s an island of faith.”