SHIGA PREFECTURE, Japan — The first Latino branch of the Church in Japan was formed Jan. 7. The Kouga Branch is located in the southeast corner of the Shiga Prefecture, approximately one hour from Kyoto and Nagoya.

"This is a truly exciting time in the history of the Church in Japan," said David F. Robertson, president of the Japan Kobe Mission. "It recognizes the growth of the Church here, to become a truly international community of saints."

Kyoto Japan Stake president Hiromasa Kajiuchi said the branch is important not only to the Portuguese and Spanish speaking community, but also to the Japanese people.

Hundreds of thousands of Latinos live and work in Japan.