President Chibota Inspires Missionaries at the Philippines MTC to Trust the “Master Potter”

Primary General President Rosemary K. Chibota of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encouraged more than 240 missionaries at the Philippines Missionary Training Center (MTC) on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to trust in the Savior Jesus Christ and allow Him to “mold you and shape you to be strong” as they prepare to share His gospel throughout the world.

President Chibota leads the Church’s worldwide organization for children ages 18 months through 11 years. She visited the Philippines to meet with Church members, train local leaders and support humanitarian efforts that strengthen the well-being of children, families and communities.

She was accompanied by her husband, Joel B. Chibota. The couple previously served together as leaders in the Alabama Birmingham Mission.

“I want you to know that something is happening inside you, even when you cannot see it,” President Chibota told the missionaries. “The Lord will be working on you.”

Using the image of a master potter, President Chibota showed a video of clay being carefully shaped into a vase and refined through the heat of a kiln. She likened the process to the Lord’s refining influence as missionaries learn, grow and serve.

“Missionary work is hard,” she said. “It takes a special kind of person to endure this. And I can promise you that this is the best gift that you can give yourself and your future generations.”

Elder Carlos G. Revillo Jr., President of the Philippines Area, also spoke, encouraging the missionaries to rely on the Savior throughout their service.

“Please don’t forget the One who called you to serve,” he said. “He will walk with you. He will work with you. I hope you call upon Him, and He will be with you.”

Sister Cruz, who will serve in the Japan Nagoya Mission, said President Chibota’s message helped her see the challenges of missionary service in a different light. Though the Lord’s work may not always be easy, she said, she was reminded that “the Master Potter, Jesus Christ, is molding us into something divine.”

For Elder Quinto, who is assigned to the Philippines Iloilo Mission, the message strengthened his confidence in what he could become with the Lord’s help.

“President Chibota’s message made me realize that I can become what I want myself to be if I let myself be molded by God,” he said. “I know that I will succeed in this work because I have Him.”

Sister Marquez, who is preparing to serve in the Japan Tokyo North Mission, said her call to serve was not by accident but “a divine calling.” President Chibota’s message, she said, strengthened her desire to trust in Jesus Christ and allow Him to shape and change her throughout her missionary service.

President Chibota was sustained as Primary General President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on April 4, 2026, and began her service on August 1.

The Primary helps children feel God’s love, learn and live the gospel of Jesus Christ, and prepare to make and keep sacred covenants.

As a General Officer of the Church, President Chibota fulfills assignments around the world to minister, teach and testify of Jesus Christ, and strengthen the faith of those she serves.