Early Departure of LDS Missionaries: Reasons and Process
The concept of LDS missionary service has been deeply rooted in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for generations. Missionaries, often referred to as Elder and Sisters, commit to serve a defined term that usually lasts for two years or eighteen months. Sometimes, the circumstances of health, personal life, or unexpected events may necessitate an early departure from this dedicated service.
Reasons for Early Departure
LDS missionaries might be compelled to leave their mission early for several reasons, including health issues, family emergencies, or mental health concerns. These situations often arise suddenly, and missionaries and their leaders must navigate through the process together.
For instance, Type 1 diabetes, mitochondrial diseases, or other serious health conditions can make it challenging to continue a mission. Mission presidents usually try to have a one-on-one conversation with the missionaries to discuss the feasibility of completing the term. However, if the person expresses a firm desire to return home, the mission president may expedite the process, and the missionary might board a flight home the very next day.
Case Studies
There are documented cases where missionaries like my grandson and nephew were diagnosed with medical conditions necessitating early departure. My grandson, for example, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes and flown home after a brief stay in the hospital. My nephew was diagnosed with a mitochondrial disease, which affected his balance, and was sent home. Unfortunately, he passed away at 29 while in a nursing home.
Other times, missionaries leave due to personal issues. A lack of motivation, minor rule violations, or health issues that can be managed at home might lead to an early departure. For some, the challenge of being far from home and the absence of a support network can result in homesickness, making it difficult to continue the commitment.
Family responsibilities also play a role. A significant death or an urgent need to support a family member might spur a missionary to request an early return to their home.
Handling the Situation
When a missionary returns home early, there are steps that can be taken to make their return as smooth as possible. It is crucial to express gratitude for the service they have already given, reinforcing the idea that they demonstrated commitment and strength by stepping up to serve.
If the release was due to health or mental health reasons, the bishop may require the missionary to report to the stake high council. Ward members can play a supportive role by reaching out to the returning missionary, sharing experiences, and offering assistance as needed. This support helps to reintegrate the missionary back into the ward community and revitalizes their spirit.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Although some individuals may leave due to violations of mission rules, these cases are relatively rare. The decision to terminate a mission legally and ethically involves a thorough understanding of the guidelines and policies set forth by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In many cases, missionaries are given a supportive and understanding environment to address issues, with the goal of resolving them and allowing the missionary to complete their term.
It is essential to remember that everyone has their unique circumstances and challenges. Judging someone for returning home early is not constructive and can be counterproductive. These individuals often emerge from their experiences with valuable lessons and contribute positively to their communities in various ways.
My own experience is a testament to this. Having a sister and two nephews who returned home early due to health issues affirmed my support for their decisions. My sister, who experienced health problems mid-way through her mission, felt guilty about not completing her full time but my encouragement helped her see the value in her service.
While some missionaries may struggle with mental health due to prolonged isolation, policies can cause significant distress. My nephew, for example, faced mental health challenges from being confined to a small space for months. In such cases, it is important to provide compassionate understanding and support.
Elders who were sent home for minor issues sometimes returned to the mission field later to complete their service. These experiences often highlight the complexity of balancing a spiritual calling with personal and familial responsibilities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the early departure of LDS missionaries is a multifaceted issue involving health, personal well-being, and family responsibilities. While the decision to leave a mission early is a significant turning point, it is important to approach these situations with empathy and support. Recognizing and honoring the commitment and efforts of returning missionaries can help foster a positive and inclusive community environment.