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50 years ago
A report from Elder Harold B. Lee — then a member of the Quorum of the Twelve, following a visit to South Africa — was optimistic about the Church i that area, accordin to the Nov. 29, 1959, Church News
"The prospects are excellent for the future growth and stability of the South Africa Mission," Elder Lee stated, according to the article.
The article quoted Elder Lee: "One of the big problems of this mission has been the heavy emigration of members through the years to America. It is my feeling that with the new temples at London and Berne, many will be encouraged to go to these rather than plan emigration to America for temple privileges. This will build up the mission and stabilize the Church membership there.
"I found leaders in the districts who are striving to encourage young people in a program of planning and saving for temple marriage.
"With the prospects of more missionaries which may now be sent into the mission and with an increased number of local missionaries, it is hoped that new areas for missionary work will be developed."
Of his visit with government officials, he said, "They gave every indication of respect for our missionary work and for the mission program as it is now being carried forward."
Returning from the trip, Elder Lee and his wife, Fern, visited Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Switzerland, Germany, France and England before continuing on to Salt Lake City.
