what is a mission call

3 min read 25-12-2024

A mission call in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church, often informally called the Mormon Church) is a significant event marking a young adult's commitment to serving full-time as a missionary. It's not just a job; it's a deeply spiritual experience shaping their faith and future. This article will explore what a mission call is, the process involved, and its importance within the LDS faith.

The Significance of Missionary Work

Missionary work is a central tenet of the LDS Church. Members believe they have a divinely-appointed responsibility to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. Young men and women volunteer to serve for 18 or 24 months, respectively, spreading the church's message and performing acts of service. This commitment represents a significant sacrifice, requiring them to leave behind family, friends, and often, ongoing education or career paths.

Understanding the Mission Call Process

The process of receiving a mission call begins with a deep period of personal reflection and preparation. Potential missionaries, typically between the ages of 18-25 for men and 19-25 for women, meet with their bishop and stake president to discuss their readiness and suitability for missionary service. This includes assessing their spiritual commitment, health, and personal capabilities.

Application and Interview

Once deemed ready, they submit a formal application, including personal information, medical details, and a statement of their intentions. They then undergo a comprehensive interview process to assess their understanding of the gospel and their willingness to serve.

Waiting for the Call

After the interview and application submission, there's a period of waiting, often filled with anticipation and prayer. The church's Missionary Department reviews applications and prayerfully assigns missionaries to specific locations, taking into account language skills, individual aptitudes, and the needs of the church in various regions worldwide.

Receiving the Call

The mission call arrives in a letter sent through the mail. This letter specifies the location of their mission, the mission president they will serve under, and the starting date. It's a highly personal and emotional moment for the missionary and their family, signifying the beginning of a transformative journey.

What the Mission Call Includes

The letter isn't just a simple assignment; it’s a sacred communication. It details the specific geographic area where the missionary will serve, often a foreign country or a less-familiar part of their own country. It also includes the name of the mission president – the person who will oversee their training and service. Finally, it provides the date when they are expected to report for duty at the Missionary Training Center (MTC).

Life at the Missionary Training Center (MTC)

Before heading to their assigned mission, missionaries attend the MTC for several weeks of intensive training. Here, they receive instruction on:

Gospel principles: Deepening their understanding of core church doctrines.
Missionary techniques: Learning effective communication and teaching methods.
Language acquisition: If assigned to a foreign-language mission, they'll receive focused language training.
Cultural sensitivity: Developing an understanding of the customs and beliefs of the people they'll serve.

The Importance of the Mission Call

The mission call represents more than just an assignment; it's a sacred covenant. It's a testament to the commitment the individual has made to serve God and share the Gospel. The experience significantly shapes the spiritual development and character of the missionary. Many return with a strengthened faith, increased maturity, and a broader perspective on life.

FAQs about Mission Calls

Q: Can I choose where I want to serve my mission? A: While you can express preferences on your application, the ultimate decision rests with the church leadership based on the needs of the church and your skills.

Q: What if I'm not fluent in the language of my assigned area? A: The MTC provides language training to help missionaries effectively communicate and teach the gospel.

Q: What happens if I have to return home early? A: Medical reasons, family emergencies, or other extenuating circumstances can lead to an early return. This is handled on a case-by-case basis by church leadership.

Q: Is a mission call mandatory in the LDS Church? A: No, missionary service is voluntary, though strongly encouraged for young adults.

In conclusion, a mission call is a deeply personal and pivotal event in the life of a Latter-day Saint. It's a commitment to service, spiritual growth, and the sharing of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The experience is transformative and deeply impactful for those who embark on this sacred journey.