The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced updates to full-time missionary service. Single men aged 40 and older can now serve as full-time missionaries. The new guidelines took effect on 1 January 2024.
Before this adjustment, the standard age for missionary service in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was more restricted. Single men typically served between the ages of 18 and 25, while single women were eligible from the age of 19. Senior missionaries were usually retired couples who served together. These age limits meant that older single men, particularly those over 40, did not have the option to serve as full-time missionaries.
Missionary work in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints involves members dedicating their time, often for 18 months or two years, to teach people about their church and Christ.
According to the church’s missionary guide Preach My Gospel, “a missionary’s purpose is to invite others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end.”
Members who seek to serve must meet the Church’s requirements for health and financial support, which typically include good physical condition and the ability to cover personal expenses during their mission.
The types of missionary assignments for single women aged 40 and older have been expanded. In addition to current roles such as supporting local Church units, advising missions on medical matters, and working in family history, new assignments will include visitors’ centers, historic sites, employment centers, and additional roles in area and mission offices.
Single women can choose to serve for 12, 18, or 24 months as proselyting or service missionaries according to the Church Newsroom.
Church Bishops can begin full-time missionary applications through the Church’s Missionary Recommendation System. Worthy members of the Church interested in full-time service opportunities can visit SeniorMissionary.ChurchofJesusChrist.org for more details.
