El Salvador San Salvador East Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

San Salvador's culture is a vibrant blend of Salvadoran influences, historical significance, and modern innovation. The city's culinary scene is renowned for its Salvadoran cuisine, featuring dishes like pupusas, tamales, and yuca con chicharrón. Music and arts thrive in San Salvador, with venues like the Teatro Nacional de El Salvador and the Museo de Arte de El Salvador hosting performances and exhibits. The city also embraces its rich history with institutions like the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Historically, San Salvador has grown from a colonial settlement into a vibrant modern city, retaining its unique charm and cultural richness.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region features a mix of urban landscapes, coastal areas, and mountainous regions, with natural landmarks such as the Lake Ilopango and the nearby Boquerón Volcano, offering a blend of natural beauty and metropolitan development.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summer temperatures average around 90°F, while winter temperatures average around 75°F. The wettest months are typically May to October.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken are Spanish and English.

RELIGIONS

Major religions in the region include Roman Catholicism, which is predominant, followed by smaller communities of Protestantism and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

INDUSTRIES

Agriculture: The region has a strong agricultural sector with major employers like local coffee producers excelling in coffee and sugar production.

Manufacturing: Companies like textile manufacturers lead in garment and footwear production.

Tourism: The area supports a robust tourism industry with companies like El Salvador Tourism Authority excelling in promoting travel and hospitality services.

LOCAL EVENTS

The area hosts events like the Fiestas Agostinas, celebrating with vibrant parades, music, and traditional dances; the Day of the Dead, featuring cultural festivities and remembrances; and the Independence Day, showcasing national pride and historical commemorations.

TOURISM

Popular tourist destinations include the San Salvador Historic Downtown, known for its historical significance; the Joya de Cerén, offering archaeological insights; and the El Boquerón National Park, featuring natural beauty and outdoor activities.

RECREATION

Favored activities include hiking, exploring archaeological sites, and enjoying natural reserves, with major parks like the Cerro Verde National Park and the Bicentennial Park being popular destinations.

MISSION HISTORY

In 1948, President Arwell L. Pierce of the Mexican Mission assigned the first missionaries to preach in El Salvador. In February 1951, a conference was held in San Salvador with a Church Apostle, Elder Albert E. Bowen, in attendance. One month later, the first 12 converts were baptized at Apulo Beach at Lake Ilopango. In 1965, there were 4,200 members in El Salvador.

By 1989, the Church in El Salvador was able to use local missionaries to sustain its missionary force. In 1986, membership was 15,100, and in 1990, membership was 38,000. Membership doubled in the next eight years.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

El Salvador San Salvador Mision Este Facebook Group

El Salvador Mission Moms and Friends (LDS)

LDS Moms Of Missionaries In El Salvador And Belize

San Salvador East Mission Moms and Friends (LDS) Group

Mision San Salvador Este Facebook Group