Elder Edward Dube: An LDS Journey of Faith from Botswana

The life of Elder Edward Dube LDS is a profound example of how the gospel of Jesus Christ can transform an individual's path from humble beginnings to global service. Born in 1962 in the village of Chirumanzu, Zimbabwe, Elder Dube’s journey toward faith began in 1981 when he was introduced to the Church by an employer who provided him with a copy of the Book of Mormon. Though he did not initially read the volume, he eventually felt moved by the testimony of Joseph Smith. This pivotal moment led him to attend a fast and testimony meeting in Kwekwe, Zimbabwe, where he experienced a Spiritual Conversion that would change the trajectory of his life forever. Despite feeling initially uncomfortable due to his social circumstances, he found a deep connection with the members as they shared their testimonies, eventually leading to his baptism and dedicated service as a missionary.

A Life of Dedicated Service

The story of Elder Edward Dube LDS is one of persistent faith and growth. After his conversion, he served in the Zimbabwe Harare Mission and later worked for the Church Educational System, helping to establish seminaries and institutes across Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi. His commitment to the Lord has taken him across the globe, including leadership assignments in South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and the United States. Sustained as a General Authority Seventy on April 6, 2013, he has since served in various capacities, including the Presidency of the Seventy. Throughout his ministry, Elder Edward Dube LDS has consistently encouraged the Saints to strengthen their faith in Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of searching the scriptures, praying regularly, and worshipping in the house of the Lord.

Finding Peace in the Lord's Work

In his public teachings, Elder Edward Dube LDS often shares personal experiences to illustrate the reality of divine guidance. He has spoken openly about feeling overwhelmed and inadequate when he first entered the general conference leadership meetings in 2012. Through the kindness of fellow leaders, he found peace and reassurance that his calling was not a mistake. This vulnerability highlights the Power of Prayer and the comfort that comes from relying on the Savior. As he continues his service, Elder Edward Dube LDS remains a witness of the joy found in the gospel. Whether he is speaking to Saints in New Zealand or reflecting on his upbringing in war-torn Zimbabwe, his message remains consistent: we must look ahead and believe, trusting that in the sight of the Lord, it is not just where we have been, but where we are willing to go that truly matters. His life stands as a beacon of hope for all who seek to follow the covenant path.

A Voice from the Conference Pulpit

In October 2026, now serving in the Presidency of the Seventy, Elder Edward Dube delivered a general conference address titled "Come Unto Christ," built on Moroni's invitation to "come unto Christ, and be perfected in him." He taught that the invitation rests on three movements — come, deny yourselves, and be perfected in Him — and bore testimony that heaven's gate is open to all.

"We do not need to perfect ourselves to come to Christ. We come to Christ to be perfected." — Elder Edward Dube, October 2026 General Conference

"[Jesus Christ's] suffering and atoning sacrifice show us how completely devoted He is to all of us. He invites us to come unto Him." — Elder Edward Dube

He told of 1987, when he was a young missionary with only two years in the Church: a sign at the mission office gate read "Trespassers will be prosecuted," and President Dallin H. Oaks, then a regional leader, asked that it be removed so no one would feel excluded. "The adversary wants to hang that sign on the gate of our heart," Elder Dube taught — but no addiction, doubt, pain, or guilt makes a soul unworthy to come unto Christ. "We invite all to come unto Christ through faith in Him and His Atonement."

His lifelong invitation has never changed: "My humble invitation to all of us is to never give up!" — Elder Edward Dube, April 2021 General Conference