How to Become a Mormon Missionary: The Complete Guide

Are you considering becoming a Mormon missionary? If so, you've come to the right place. This guide will outline the steps required to become a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) or the Mormon Church. Let's dive into the process.

Eligibility for LDS Missionary Service

First and foremost, you must be a Latter-day Saint to join the missionary corps. Additionally, there are several other eligibility criteria that you must meet. Here’s a breakdown of what’s required:

Physical and Mental Readiness

For physical missions, members need to be physically, mentally, and spiritually fit. However, for those who have disabilities, there are special missions available that do not require travel.

Medical and Health Requirements

All candidates must meet specific medical and health requirements, which may include health screenings and immunizations.

Worthiness and Temple Recommend

Before applying to serve a mission, one must hold a current temple recommend. This document certifies that the individual is worthy to enter the church's temples.

Priesthood Ordination

Candidates must be ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood. In the LDS Church, women can serve missions but they do not hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, which is typically required for male missionaries.

Travel Documents

If you're planning to serve a mission abroad, you'll need to obtain the appropriate travel documents, including a passport and any visas required for travel.

Economic Contribution

Candidates are expected to make a meaningful financial contribution to their mission. The amount varies based on the country and the mission but the commitment is a significant one.

Age Requirements

Men should be at least 18 years old, and women, 19 years old. There are no upper age limits, but the majority of missionaries are between the ages of 19 and 24.

Initial Steps

To begin the process, you should meet with your Bishop (the local church leader). Your Bishop will assess your readiness and determine if you are eligible to serve a mission. If you meet all the requirements, you can proceed to the next steps.

Steps to Beginner Membership

Here's what to do if you are not yet a member of the church:

Take Missionary Lessons

Begin your journey by attending missionary lessons. These lessons help you develop faith in Jesus Christ and gain a testimony of the restored gospel. After completing these lessons, you will have the opportunity to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands.

Meet with Your Bishop

After obtaining the temple recommend, you should meet with your Bishop to discuss your desire to serve a missionary. During this meeting, you will fill out the necessary application paperwork.

Church Leadership Call

Depending on your circumstances, you may be called by a church leader, often an Apostle, at a higher level of the church hierarchy. This call authorizes you to begin the missionary experience.

Missionary Training Center (MTC) and Virtual Training

You will then attend a Missionary Training Center (MTC) to receive intensive training in your mission field. If your mission involves a language you do not already speak, you will also attend MTC classes to learn the language before you depart for your mission.

For those who cannot attend an in-person MTC, virtual training options via the Internet are available. These courses are designed to provide the same level of preparation as in-person MTC training.

Conclusion

Becoming a Mormon missionary involves a significant commitment, both in terms of time and resources. It requires a strong faith in Jesus Christ, physical and mental readiness, and a desire to serve others. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can begin your journey towards becoming a Mormon missionary and spreading the gospel.

Discover More

For more detailed information, you can visit the official website or contact your local Mormon church for additional guidance.