map of Macau

A Brief History of the Church in

Macau

The Latter-day Saints are relatively few in number in Macau, the most densely populated region in the world. For over half a century Latter-day Saints have been part of the fabric of Macanese society, working hard within the bustling economy and building relationships with local government and the religious establishment. In the early years of missionary efforts in Macau, missionaries and local members hosted annual choir performances during the Christmas season, which were attended by hundreds of local people.

The constant flow of people in and out of Macau for economic opportunities has contributed to fluctuations in local Church organization. For instance, a Mandarin-speaking branch was organized in 2001 but discontinued in 2004. A few dedicated families have served diligently in key local callings for more than one generation. In 2015 the Church reached a milestone for institutional maturity with the creation of the Macau China District. That same year, Macau’s diverse but small, committed membership was an ideal pilot for the new basic unit program, centered on a two-hour church block. Latter-day Saints’ experiences in Macau prove Jesus’s promise that “where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).

Quick Facts

Official Name: Macau [Macao] Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China/中華人民共和國澳門特別行政區/Região Administrativa Especial de Macau da República Popular da China

Official Languages: Traditional Chinese (written), Chinese (spoken), and Portuguese

Land Area: 115.3 km² (44.5 mi²)

Church Area: Asia

Missions: 1 (Part of the China Hong Kong Mission)

Congregations: 2