SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A Mormon church official has been appointed to a White House advisory council on faith-based partnerships.

Steven E. Snow is the first Mormon to serve on President Barack Obama’s Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships.

Snow is the historian for The Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints. He also serves as recorder and executive director for the Church History Department.

Sen. Orrin Hatch says the White House council is made up of religious leaders from across the country. Hatch says Snow’s appointment ensures Mormons have a seat at the table.

The council helps coordinate social services for people in need.

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