Church of Jesus Christ meet with Palau President to strengthen humanitarian efforts

Leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints met with President Surangel Whipps Jr. of the Republic of Palau to review past contributions and discuss future partnerships. The delegation was led by Elder Christopher H. Kimof the Asia North Area Presidency, and included Brett Child and Jun Ochiai from the Area Humanitarian Department, as well as senior missionaries Elder and Sister Rottweiler. President Whipps was accompanied by his Technology Strategy Coordinator, Cullen Carlson, who also serves as second counselor in the local Koror Branch of the Church.

During the meeting, Church leaders shared that the Church has been present in Palau for nearly 50 years, since the arrival of the first missionaries. They highlighted past humanitarian projects and explored ways to continue supporting the community.

Brett Child noted the Church’s recent efforts, saying, “Over the last 18 months, we have donated more than in the past decade combined. We are committed to Palau.” These donations have benefited numerous organizations and individuals, including the national hospital and several schools. Over the past year, the Church provided basic school supplies, desks, chairs, computers, and updated technology to three schools. In November 2025, a large shipment of medical supplies arrived at the hospital, including wheelchairs, hospital beds, and other medical and dental equipment.

The Church also discussed its partnership with the Ebiil Society, which supports a seedling nursery to improve access to locally grown produce and promote food sustainability.

Elder Kim emphasized the Church’s focus on service, asking President Whipps, “What can we do to help the people of Palau? We are not here to preach to you; we want to help in meaningful ways.” President Whipps outlined several ongoing initiatives where collaboration could help, including addiction recovery programs, support for battered women, and prison ministry efforts. Elder and Sister Rottweiler, with professional backgrounds in higher education, also offered their assistance to Palau’s Ministry of Education.

The meeting also highlighted the weekly broadcast of Music & the Spoken Word on Palau’s government radio station, which President Whipps praised, commenting, “That’s great! You have a wonderful choir!”

The meeting concluded with Elder Kim presenting President Whipps with a Christus statue as a symbol of goodwill. President Whipps expressed appreciation for the Church’s contributions both in Palau and globally, stating, “We are grateful for all that your Church does here and throughout the world. We look forward to partnering with you on several great projects here on Palau.”