Embarking on a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is one of the most sacred and life-changing decisions a young Latter-day Saint can make. It’s a time of devoted service, spiritual growth, and personal transformation. While each mission is unique, there are key principles and practical steps that can help every prospective missionary prepare more fully—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and practically.
At the heart of missionary service is a deep love for the Savior and a firm testimony of His restored Gospel. Begin by:
Missionary work flows from who you are, not just what you say. Develop a Christlike character now, and you’ll be prepared to teach with power and authenticity later.
“Preach My Gospel” is not just a manual—it’s the core foundation of missionary teaching. Become familiar with:
Spiritual strength begins with personal purity. Seek to live a life that aligns with the standards in For the Strength of Youth. If necessary, meet with your bishop or branch president to work through challenges and prepare to enter the temple with a clear conscience.
Remember: Repentance is a gift, and preparing for a mission is a powerful time to embrace that gift.
Missionary work requires physical stamina, time management, and emotional resilience. You can prepare by:
You don’t need a nametag to be a missionary. Look for chances now to:
This will build confidence and help you see the joy of missionary work in action.
Missions are incredibly rewarding—but they can also be emotionally stretching. Practice:
It’s okay to be nervous. You’re not expected to be perfect—just willing.
Don’t overlook the logistics! Make sure you:
Also consider apps like Called to Serve to help keep your mission organized and share your experiences with loved ones throughout your service.
Ultimately, preparing for a mission isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ. Pray for His guidance. Ask Him to shape your heart. Trust Him with your fears and hopes. He will walk with you every step of the way.
Whether you're weeks away from your call or just starting to consider the idea, remember this: God is preparing you to do something remarkable. You are part of the greatest cause on earth—the gathering of Israel. Prepare well, trust in the Lord, and go forward with faith. Your mission will bless countless lives, especially your own.
For more tools to help you prepare, explore the “Called to Serve” mobile app—a trusted companion for organizing, sharing, and preserving your missionary journey.
