Bangkok Thailand Temple Media Day

At a news conference on Monday, Elder Gong said he and his wife, Susan, first came to Bangkok 43 years ago. He was doing graduate studies in international relations with Oxford University.

“We are grateful Thailand allows religious freedom,” Elder Gong said. “In Thailand, more than 23,000 individuals and families are members of our Church. We are your neighbors and friends. Our weekly Sunday worship meetings are open to, and welcome, all. Our friendly congregations and meetinghouses are found across Thailand.”

The Apostle explained that Latter-day Saints believe in God, seek to create strong families and be good citizens.

“As good neighbors and good friends, we seek to be compassionate, kind and generous,” he said. “We help the poor and needy. For instance, we respond quickly when floods, natural disasters, or other community needs arise. For many years, our Church members have been privileged to work with the Royal Patronage Foundation. For example, our humanitarian service, training and assistance provide wheelchairs for the mobility impaired; neonatal training to help health care professionals save infants at risk; and needed water and wells in rural areas. Of course, no one group can do everything needed, but we can each do our small part.”