This story was originally posted on mormonnewsroom.org and was used with permission

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has received official recognition for its local leaders and organization from the State of Kuwait.

“We are grateful to the Government of Kuwait and in particular to His Highness, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al -Sabah, Emir of Kuwait, for his exemplary leadership in allowing freedom of worship in the State of Kuwait, in particular for the expatriate workforce,” said Bishop Terry Harradine, leader of the Kuwait congregation.

He continued, “We appreciate the assistance and guidance of the Kuwait Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs for their assistance in promoting religious tolerance within the country.”

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a worldwide organization with more than 16 million members meeting in more than 30,000 congregations, with 188 published languages. Nearly 300 members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints live and work in Kuwait; they come from many countries around the world. Formal recognition from the government allows local leaders to better serve the needs of members in Kuwait.