In Mormonism, a missionary is a member of the church called to preach and serve, usually for 18–24 months. Young men are strongly encouraged to serve beginning at age 18, and many young women also serve beginning at age 19. Senior couples may also serve missions. Missionaries are assigned throughout the world and dedicate themselves full-time to proselytizing, teaching, and service.
Missionaries are easily recognized by their formal dress and name tags, and they typically travel in pairs. They follow strict rules of conduct, including limited contact with family and restricted entertainment or leisure, to remain focused on their work. Their primary goal is to bring people into the LDS Church through teaching lessons, encouraging baptism, and preparing converts for lifelong membership.
Mormon culture places a high value on missionary service. It is often seen as a rite of passage for young men, and families make significant sacrifices to support their children on missions. The experience is intended not only to grow the church but also to strengthen the missionary’s faith and commitment.
It’s also important to remember that missionaries are often very young and may feel homesick, anxious, or lonely. Some are not entirely sure of what they believe themselves, and the stress of missionary life can weigh heavily on them. Recognizing these pressures helps Christians approach missionaries with compassion and patience.
For Christians who encounter Mormon missionaries at their door, this presents a unique opportunity for conversation. Truth in Love Ministry offers a resource called Please Open the Door to help believers understand what missionaries teach and to prepare them to share the biblical gospel with clarity and love.
