Who Are the Missionaries and How Can They Help You?

Missionaries are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who leave their homes for 18 months–2 years to serve others and share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Two sister missionaries speak with a man while riding a bus

Pretty normal people ... mostly

Missionaries are just regular people like you and me. Before leaving on a mission, they were students, employees, athletes, bookworms, musicians, and, well, you get the idea. After their service, they will return home to finish college, work, date and marry, and live a pretty normal life.

They come from all over the world. It’s not uncommon for a missionary to serve in a country and language other than their own. Missionaries serve as young adults or in their retired years as singles or couples. Whatever their age, their motivation is sincere—they leave their homes and families for up to two years to do what Jesus taught his Apostles: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).

Two by two

You’ll most often see missionaries in pairs. Missionaries have a companion wherever they go, which helps to keep them safe and focused on one thing: helping others come closer to God. Serving in pairs, they follow the pattern Jesus set for His messengers: “And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two” (Mark 6:7).

They’ll help you along your spiritual journey

Your relationship with God can be deeply personal. But sometimes we all need a little help recognizing what God is saying to us. No matter where you are on your spiritual path, missionaries will have truths and insights that can help you on your way.

Missionaries can:

  • Help you feel closer to God.
  • Show you how to pray and receive answers from Him.
  • Help you find answers to your spiritual questions.
  • Teach you about Jesus Christ and His gospel.
  • Guide you in ways to understand the scriptures.
  • Support you through your personal challenges.
  • Encourage your progress toward repentance, faith, and baptism.
  • Introduce you to a community of like-minded believers who can continue to support you in your spiritual journey.

You may have already been seeking some of these things. Or maybe you did once and never found answers that felt right. God hears and answers your earnest prayers. Missionaries can teach you how to listen so that you can feel His Holy Spirit, discover the answers you need, and know what God wants for you.

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