Why do we need to explain Mormonism ?
Each year, thousands of Mormon missionaries are sent throughout the world to represent the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, better known as the Mormon Church. You may have seen them before in your community, usually two young men in dark suits, white shirts and ties, dawning name tags. Mormon missionaries are responsible for the high baptism rate in the church. Mormonism is one of the fastest growing religions throughout the world, due to the great commitment to missionary work in the Mormon Church. Mormon prophets and leaders encourage members to share the gospel whenever possible with family members, co-workers, or anyone who is seeking truth in their life.
Mormons are encouraged to serve missions if they are worthy and have a sincere desire to share the gospel and serve the Lord. Mormon history tells us that missionaries were serving on behalf of the church right after the formal reorganization of the Mormon Church. The Book of Mormon, New Testament, and other Mormon scripture encourages members to proselyte and share the gospel message with everyone.
The role of a Mormon missionary is to bring people unto Christ. Mormon missionaries hope to find those who are searching for meaning in life or are struggling to find truth.
The life of a missionary requires sacrifice and discipline. Missionaries have to learn their comfortable homes and are sent throughout the world, to unknown lands, with no say of where they are sent. Young men who are pursuing education must put school on hold for two years in order to serve. Missionaries cannot talk to their families or friends throughout the two years, except on Christmas and mothers’ days. Missionaries cannot have anyone visit them during their service. Many young men have to spend years prior to their mission to save enough to support themselves on a mission. Missionary work is completely voluntary. Young men prepare for missions their entire lives. They must keep the law of chastity, refrain from drugs and alcohol, and follow all commandments.
Most Mormon missionaries are young men between the ages of 19 and 21. In Mormon culture, serving a mission is almost like a rite of passage for young men. About three-fourths of the world’s Mormon missionaries are young men. Young women can serve too, beginning at the age of 21 but it is not as common. Although the church supports sister missionaries, more men serve missions than women. President David O McKay said that "It is surprising how eagerly the young women and some married women seek calls to go on missions. We commend them for it, but the responsibility of proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ rests primarily upon the priesthood of the Church. However, sister missionaries are vital to the missionary program. The Mormon prophet Gordon B Hinkley said, “We need some young women. They perform a remarkable work. They can get in homes where the elders cannot.” Elderly couples are also encouraged to go if they are physically and financially capable. The church encourages people of all ages, backgrounds and genders to serve as missionaries. Mormon prophets and leaders have told members that every Mormon should be a missionary. Every Mormon, whether on an official mission for the church or not, should take every opportunity to share the gospel with those around them.
Missionaries have much to gain from serving a mission. Serving a mission allows people to put their personal life on hold to focus solely on the work of the Lord. It gives Mormons the opportunity to really study the Mormon scriptures and gain a testimony of its truthfulness. For young people, it offers great character building experience. Serving a mission forces Mormons to rely on the Lord for strength. Some missionaries who serve in foreign countries learn a language. Missionaries have the unique opportunity to serve as Christ did during His earthly ministry.
What do missionaries do on a daily basis?
What do the Mormon missionaries teach?
What is the Missionary Training Center?