The Ulaanbaatar Mongolia Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was announced by President Russell M. Nelson on Oct. 1, 2023. For Sister Mary N. Cook, who served with her late husband, Elder Richard E. Cook, as the first mission leaders in Mongolia in 1995-1996, this announcement marked decades of challenges and miracles in this Central Asian country. Sister Cook joins Church News reporter Mary Richards on this episode of the Church News podcast to talk about the Church’s miraculous start and growth in Mongolia, as the restored gospel of Jesus Christ “shall be taught unto all nations, kindreds, tongues and people” (Doctrine and Covenants 42:58).

The Church News Podcast is a weekly podcast that invites listeners to make a journey of connection with members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints across the globe. Hosts Jon Ryan Jensen, editor of the Church News, and Church News reporter Mary Richards share unique views of the stories, events, and people who form this international faith. With each episode, listeners are asked to embark on a journey to learn from one another and ponder, “What do I know now?” because of the experience. Produced by KellieAnn Halvorsen.