Sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serve around the world with one primary purpose: to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and help others come unto Him. These dedicated young men and women, along with senior couples, represent the heart of the Church's missionary effort.
The Great Commission
The missionary program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is based on Christ's commandment to His apostles to "go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." This divine mandate drives the Church's worldwide missionary effort.
Every member of the Church is encouraged to share the gospel, but full-time missionaries dedicate 18 months to 2 years of their lives exclusively to this sacred work, serving wherever they are called throughout the world.
Types of Missionaries
Young Men (Elders)
Young men typically serve for two years, beginning as early as age 18. They are called "Elder" and serve with a companion, teaching and baptizing those who accept the gospel.
Young Women (Sisters)
Young women serve for 18 months, beginning at age 19. They are called "Sister" and often bring unique perspectives and abilities to missionary work.
Senior Missionaries
Married couples serve together in various capacities, from teaching to humanitarian work to temple service. They bring wisdom and life experience to their missions.
Service Missionaries
Members who cannot serve full-time missions due to health, family, or other circumstances can serve as service missionaries in their local areas.
The Missionary Call
Receiving a mission call is a sacred and exciting experience for young Latter-day Saints. The process involves submitting an application, being interviewed by local leaders, and receiving an assignment from Church headquarters.
Called by Revelation
Mission assignments are made through inspiration and revelation. Each missionary is called to serve where the Lord needs them most, whether that's across the world or in their home country. The call letter specifies the mission, language, and reporting date.
The Application Process
Prospective missionaries go through a careful application process:
- Worthiness interviews with bishop and stake president
- Medical and dental examinations to ensure good health
- Application submission including personal history and testimony
- Mission assignment made by the First Presidency and Twelve
- Language training if assigned to non-native language
Missionary Preparation
Preparing to serve a mission involves spiritual, physical, mental, and social preparation. The Church encourages young people to begin preparing early in their teenage years.
Preparing to Serve
Spiritual Preparation
Develop personal testimony, study scriptures daily, and live worthy of the Spirit
Physical Preparation
Maintain good health, exercise regularly, and follow the Word of Wisdom
Mental Preparation
Develop study habits, learn to teach effectively, and gain knowledge of the gospel
Social Preparation
Learn to work with others, develop people skills, and practice sharing beliefs
Missionary Training Centers (MTCs)
Before entering their assigned missions, most missionaries attend a Missionary Training Center where they:
- Learn missionary skills - Teaching, finding, and working with investigators
- Study languages - Intensive language training for foreign-language missions
- Develop spiritual strength - Daily scripture study and prayer
- Practice teaching - Role-playing and actual teaching experiences
- Learn mission rules - Understanding missionary standards and expectations
Missionary Life and Daily Schedule
Missionary life is structured and purposeful, designed to maximize opportunities for sharing the gospel and serving others. Missionaries follow a daily schedule that balances study, service, and teaching.
Typical Missionary Day
Missionary Standards and Rules
Missionaries follow high standards designed to help them be effective representatives of Jesus Christ:
- Always stay with companion - Safety and accountability
- Dress professionally - Clean, conservative appearance
- Focus on the work - Limited personal activities and communication
- Follow mission rules - Specific guidelines for each mission
- Study daily - Personal and companion scripture study
- Serve others - Look for opportunities to help and serve
What Missionaries Teach
Missionaries teach the restored gospel of Jesus Christ using structured lessons that help people understand fundamental gospel principles and make commitments to follow Christ.
The Restoration
The First Vision, Joseph Smith's call as a prophet, and the restoration of Christ's original church and gospel.
Plan of Salvation
God's eternal plan for His children, including our purpose in life and eternal potential.
Gospel of Jesus Christ
Faith in Jesus Christ, repentance, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end.
Prophets and Revelation
Living prophets, continuing revelation, and how God guides His children today.
Laws and Ordinances
Essential ordinances like baptism and confirmation, and laws that bring happiness.
Book of Mormon
Another testament of Jesus Christ and evidence of the restoration of the gospel.
Global Missionary Work
The Church's missionary program operates on a global scale, with missionaries serving in nearly every country where the Church is established. This worldwide effort represents one of the largest missionary programs in the world.
Missionary Work Today (2024)
Worldwide Service
LDS missionaries serve in diverse locations from major metropolitan areas to remote villages, adapting to different cultures while sharing the same eternal message of Jesus Christ.
Challenges and Growth
Missionary service, while rewarding, comes with significant challenges that help missionaries grow spiritually and personally:
Language Learning
Many missionaries learn new languages, developing skills that serve them throughout their lives.
Cultural Adaptation
Serving in different cultures teaches flexibility, understanding, and appreciation for diversity.
Personal Development
Missionary service develops leadership, communication, and people skills that benefit missionaries for life.
Spiritual Growth
Daily scripture study, prayer, and teaching strengthen personal testimonies and faith.
Resilience
Facing rejection and challenges builds character, persistence, and reliance on the Lord.
Service Mindset
Constant focus on serving others develops Christlike attributes and selflessness.
Member Missionaries
While full-time missionaries are visible representatives of the Church, every member is encouraged to be a missionary by sharing the gospel with friends, neighbors, and coworkers through their example and words.
Ways Members Share the Gospel
- Living the gospel - Being good examples of Christian discipleship
- Sharing experiences - Telling others about blessings from gospel living
- Inviting to activities - Bringing friends to church or family home evening
- Supporting missionaries - Providing referrals and helping with teaching
- Social media - Sharing uplifting content and gospel messages online
- Service - Helping others and demonstrating Christ's love
The Impact of Missionary Service
Missionary service has a profound impact not only on those who are taught but also on the missionaries themselves and the global Church community.
On Missionaries
- Spiritual maturity - Deep understanding of gospel principles
- Life skills - Communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities
- Global perspective - Understanding of different cultures and peoples
- Work ethic - Discipline and dedication that serves them throughout life
- Testimony - Strengthened faith and commitment to the gospel
On Those Taught
- Gospel knowledge - Understanding of Jesus Christ and His teachings
- Baptism opportunities - Invitation to make sacred covenants
- Church membership - Joining a global community of believers
- Eternal perspective - Understanding of life's purpose and eternal potential
- Service opportunities - Chances to serve and help others
Supporting Missionaries
Families, friends, and Church members support missionaries in various ways throughout their service:
Letters and Emails
Regular communication from family and friends provides emotional and spiritual support.
Financial Support
Families contribute to mission costs, with Church assistance available when needed.
Prayers
Family and ward members pray for missionary safety, health, and success.
Care Packages
Thoughtful packages with needed items and reminders of home boost morale.
Referrals
Friends and family provide names of people who might be interested in learning about the gospel.
Support at Home
Continuing to live the gospel and set good examples strengthens missionaries' resolve.
A Sacred Calling
Missionary service is one of the highest honors and responsibilities in the Church. These dedicated young men and women, along with senior couples, sacrifice personal interests to focus completely on sharing the gospel and serving others. Their service builds the kingdom of God and blesses countless lives around the world.
Returned Missionaries
After completing their missions, returned missionaries continue to serve in the Church and their communities, bringing the skills, testimony, and global perspective gained during their service to bless others throughout their lives.
The influence of missionary service extends far beyond the mission itself, shaping the character and life direction of those who serve and contributing to the worldwide growth and strength of the Church.