David Todd Christofferson is a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, which is the second leadership body of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The religious is North American and was in the brand new Salta Temple for the Dedication.
Said temple, located on Banchik Avenue, near the Airport, had its program open to the public, between May 3 and 18, 2024; From now on, with the Dedication, it will be only for its faithful. However, the temple may be restricted, but its authorities ensure that its doors are always open.
“We are a Christian religion. We follow in the footsteps of Christ; therefore we are brothers,” said David Todd Christofferson in an exclusive conversation with The Tribune moments before the religious service is offered.
At least 3,000 people arrived early this Father’s Day Sunday. “The presence of these people is only one part since the ceremony is transmitted by various electronic means. That is to say, there is a significant number of people who follow our transmission, not only in Salta but also throughout the region. For now it is our third temple in Argentina, so it is of great importance throughout the region,” said Todd Christofferson.
The man was born in American Fork, Utah, and graduated from high school in New Jersey. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, where he was awarded the Edwin S. Hinckley Scholarship. He earned a law degree from Duke University. Among other callings, he has served the Church as a regional representative, stake president, and bishop. As a young man, he served as a missionary in Argentina.
“I came to Argentina in ’65 and I got to know almost the entire country. Today a lot has changed, especially Salta. Argentina has incredible potential. Although it is going through a critical moment, we know of the enormous capacity of Argentines to escape forward. The doors of our temples are always open to collaborate with the community. In fact, in various parts of the world we carry out work with the community, and Salta is no exception and we offer our time and work in carrying out works and tasks. with the community,” said the religious.
“Salta is like a Homeland that I have, because I also have many friends and even a Güemes poncho. I know that they are going through difficult times, but they will pass because they are very hardworking, very devoted and faithful people. We can help build a better future. The idea is that the members of this church are the best citizens of the country to take care of economic progress, but also spiritual progress; if we are good disciples of Christ we will be able to contribute in everything to a better country. I will ask for dedication for the well-being of this people,” concluded the apostle.
The message is clear: they are Christians and charity is one of the tasks they perform as a religion. Now, this task is open to the entire community.
The man is not easy to find. The month before he was in Africa and then he was in the Middle East. By having such a great position in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he is considered a celebrity and produces enormous admiration and various emotions of euphoria in his followers.
Until yesterday, that building that attracts everyone’s attention was open to the entire community. From today only its faithful will be able to enter. The Salta Temple is number 194 of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is designed inspired by the local environment and cultural motifs. The architecture of the temple reflects the rich heritage of the Salta region, with design elements such as the cardón flower, a prominent plant in the area, and the decorated “guarda pampa”, which is traditionally used in regional costumes and crafts. The color palette incorporates shades of blue, green, yellow, red and ochre, reflecting the vibrant tones of the local landscape. As the temple takes shape in Salta, it stands as a symbol of spiritual importance and a testament to the community’s dedication to its religious beliefs.
About David Todd Christofferson
At the time he received his call to the Quorum of the Twelve, more than 15 years ago, he was serving in the Presidency of the Seventy. During his service in the Presidency of the Seventy, Elder Christofferson oversaw the North America West, North America Northwest, and North America Southeast Areas of the Church. He was also Executive Director of the Department of Family History and Church History. Previously, he was President of the Mexico South Area of the Church, based in Mexico City.
Before being called to serve as a full-time General Authority in the Church, Elder Christofferson was general counsel for NationsBank Corporation (now Bank of America) in Charlotte, North Carolina. Prior to that, he was the senior vice president and general counsel of Commerce Union Bank of Tennessee in Nashville, where he was also active in community affairs and interfaith organizations. From 1975 to 1980, Elder Christofferson practiced law in Washington, DC, after serving as a clerk to John J. Sirica, United States District Judge during the trials and proceedings known as the Watergate affair (1972). to 1974).
