Canada’s first Portuguese branch is blessing local Church members

André de Castro Deus never planned on moving to Canada or on joining a language branch.

But the Lord had other plans for him and his family, and now he’s the president of Canada’s first Portuguese-speaking branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The Centennial Branch was created on Dec. 31, 2023, under the direction of Calgary Alberta Fish Creek Stake President Brad Stevens, the Church posted on its Canada Facebook page.

Portuguese-speaking members first expressed a need for the new branch in August 2023. The North America Central Area presidency approved a group in October, later determining that there were enough members for a branch.

“The faithfulness of Brazilian Saints who immigrated to Canada in recent years has made possible the creation of this branch which will provide support to other Portuguese speakers, from various countries, who will make their home in Calgary,” the Facebook post reads.

President Castro Deus said he is “honored” and “humbled” to be serving in the new Portuguese branch.

“The Lord knows me and cares about me enough to bring me where He needs me to be,” President Castro Deus said.