How Much Does a Latter-day Saint Mission Cost?
How much does a Latter-day Saint mission cost? $400 a month, for now.
The monthly cost of going on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for young men and women in 18 countries* in North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia is $400 a month. In 2019, the Church announced that the cost would increase to $500 a month as of July 1, 2020, but when the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, they put that increase on hold. Presumable, the Church will move forward with the price increase, but for now, it’s still at $400. At $400 a month, that comes to a total of $9,600 for young men who serve two-year missions and it is $7,200 for young women in their 18-month long missions. When the cost increases to $500 a month, the total will be $12,000 for young men and $9,000 for young women.
- Click here to use the Mission Savings Calculator to figure out how much you need to save per month.
Mission Costs Vary for Some People and Places
Mission costs are standardized for young people in these 18 countries*, but the cost varies for senior couples and for young people outside of those countries. If you live outside of those 18 countries, please see your bishop or other Church leader in your country find out the current cost of a mission to find out the current cost of a mission for you. For senior missionaries in the United States, the average cost of a mission for couples who do not live at home is approximately $1,500 per month. Mission costs for senior missionaries range from $800–$4,000 per month (which includes expenses for housing, utilities, food, and transportation), but about 80% of all missions cost less than $1,800 per month.
Missionaries Pay Their Own Expenses
Missionaries are expected to pay their own expenses while on the mission. When my parents were young, each missionary paid his or her own actual living expenses. So a mission to Japan, for example, could have been much more expensive than a mission to Argentina. In 1990, though, a new program was announced to equalize the financial responsibility for each missionary. Now, all young missionaries pay a flat monthly rate into the Church missionary fund. Each missionary, then, is allocated what he or she needs for the expenses in that mission. This approach has reduced the burden on the missionary, and his or her family, who may have been assigned to work in a more expensive area of the world.
Expenses Covered
The monthly allowance missionaries are given is designed to cover food, lodging, transportation, and other mission related expenses. Missionaries are asked to bring extra personal money for additional items they would like to purchase such as souvenirs. Church members around the world are asked to invite their local missionaries to meals to help reduce the overall cost of the missionary program. Click here to see the estimated cost to get ready to go on a mission, with info about clothes and other supplies you’ll need to buy. Click here if you need some ideas for earning and saving money for your mission.
Start Saving Early
Young people in the church are encouraged to save money throughout their childhood and teenage years to pay for as much of their own mission as they can. Parents, family, and friends may also contribute financially to pay for a missionary’s expenses. See this article about the Church’s online donations website that lets you contribute to specific missionaries in your ward and around the world. Missionaries who cannot save the required funds may also obtain assistance from their home ward or stake, though personal and family sources of funds should be exhausted first. In some cases it may be better to delay a mission for a time and earn more money to pay for your mission rather than to rely heavily on others to fund your mission. The Lord expects that sacrifices, of both time and money, will need to be made in order to serve a mission. You, or anyone who makes such sacrifices, will be richly blessed by the Lord for doing so.
Supplemental Financial Assistance
For many countries, if authorized, there is supplemental financial support available from the Church. If the missionary candidate cannot be supported fully from personal, family, ward or branch, or stake or district funds, then a request can be made for this financial assistance. Missionaries are asked not to request this special assistance until they, their family, and ward or branch and stake or district have committed themselves to provide all the financial support they can.
Whether in the US or elsewhere, the lack of finances should not stop a worthy individual from serving a mission. If you’ve done everything in your power to save for a mission but still don’t have enough, have faith that the Lord will open the way. Make an appointment to talk to your bishop and he will help you figure out the details and make a plan to cover the costs of your mission.
Source of Funds Section of Mission Papers
When filling out the mission application form, missionary candidates are asked to indicate the source of the funds that will pay for their mission. They are asked how much money will be contributed per month in support of the mission from: Self, Family, Ward or Branch, and other sources. So be prepared to answer that question.
Do all that you can to save for your mission. Start saving at an early age so that you can serve a faithful mission for the Lord and not be a financial burden on your family. The Lord will bless you many times over for the sacrifice of time and money you make to go on a mission.
*Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States.
I like this the 400 a month for me so much and with no jobs in my city like at all ive tried saving as much as i could which is about 1000 from working job to job and im 19 but i already turned in my papers and just need that last interview,i cant wait to serve the lord thats number 1
Ryan. I’m sorry it’s been so hard for you to find a job to save for your mission. I’m sure the Lord will bless you for your efforts. I wish you good luck and much success on your mission.
I have a quick question. What is the process of paying for a mission. Like do we just submitted our sons payment online somewhere or just enter it on a tithing slip? We were never given that information.
Mishelle, Sorry for not being more clear about that topic. I have revised my article on Paying for your Mission to include that information and I have also updated my post called Online Donations Website Lets You Contribute to Specific Missionaries in Your Ward and Around the World to talk about that subject. It’s really quite easy. You pay your ward just like you do tithing. You can make sure the funds are there each month or pay it all in advance if you want.
Shux this is awesome! my question is. When are the funds needed? at the time of submitting your papers to headquarters? or the time of your availability date?…please comment back asap!…
this answer is going to determine whether or not my goal is achievable…wish i came across this site earlier…shesh!
Haha is this the sister luatua who served in Harbord ward??
Sister Luatua. You do not need any funds at the time you submit your paperwork. The $400 per month is needed from the time you enter the MTC.
I disagree. We submitted my son’s papers and received his call April 20th, and we were IMMEDIATELY required to pay several hundred dollars for things needed for his passport and visa. I was not expecting this because it’s been the general concensus that the money is not needed that soon; however this is not true. It does depend on where you are called (my son is going overseas obviously) but be prepared to spend that just in case. If you do not get that paperwork done immediately then your mission will be delayed, perhaps by several months. We were told a minimum of two months delay if we didn’t get things back to the church office in time.
Don’t let this discourage you too much! My roommate has worked in the missionary travel office at Church Headquarters for the past three years. I know that she takes care of all the missionary visas for her region. I asked her and, as I thought, missionaries do not have to pay for their visas. If they get called somewhere that requires physicals and things for visas, then they do need to pay for that, but insurance usually covers it. If you are uninsured, you can speak with the missionary offices at church headquarters and I am positive they can help you figure everything out. If you want to serve a mission, don’t let anything hold you back! I planned on serving and it felt like everything kept crashing down around me. The week I was to send my papers in with my bishop I last-minute moved across the country. That was five years ago…and here I am, looking up this website in the middle of the night five years later at the age of 28 because a mission is still on my mind…
Stephanie, you and me both…I just turned 28 as well and samething I’ve had mission service in my mind the first time i met the missionaries, before and after i converted. But i’m sure that Our Heavenly Father knows whats goin on and has a plan for all of us who has faith in the work that missionaries do. For me becoming a missionany , is like joinning the Army of Heavenly Father’s . And the MTC is our base where we train the technics and how to use our weapons which is The Book of mormon ect and The Bible… And we have a mission to complite, and that is to Rescue back the others.
I wont give up, I will continue to pray and ask for guidences on how I can make Clean money fast so I can Start my Mission. as we all know we cant gamble, so…the Lotory is not an option…loll… hope to see you on the mission, you never know! :+ )
It’s absolutely true that you shouldn’t let things hold you back from a mission, but having a realistic understanding of the financial situation can help. We just sent our son off on a foreign mission, and based on our experience the family/missionary should expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1000 in out of pocket, up front expenses for an expedited passport (in our case, that was the only thing fast enough for the turn around we were given), visa photo, and travel vaccines which are NOT covered by insurance. That is above and beyond any clothing, shoes, etc. I would recommend a family have at least 1k on hand at the time of the call, in addition to the monthly amount they’ve set aside.
Hey just wanted to know something about the missionwork.
in any apparent reasons, have you seen or met missionaries with tattoos. just wanting to know.
Thanks
I am not aware of any rule banning people with tattoos from serving missions. I don’t think I have ever seen a missionary with tattoos, but it would be pretty easy to cover up most tattoos considering the missionary dress code. Also, you probably don’t seen tattoos on many missionaries because most LDS youth are taught not to defile their bodies with tattoos. Regardless, if you have tattoos, that shouldn’t stop you from being able to serve a mission.
Tattoos or not your money will always be welcome 🙂
I have seen missionaries with tattoos…on his lower arms and he just wore a sleeve to cover it. No biggy
I have tattoos (got them when I was less active) and I served a mission. 🙂 I served in New Zealand where lots of people had tattoos so in a way, having tattoos made me more relatable.
Missionaries can have tattoos and usually this is because converts with tattoos later decide to go on a mission.I am going on w mission my self in the summer and I do have a tattoo…it’s on my upper arm and can easier be hidden….the application papers do ask you for a picture however.
I had a missionary companion with tattoos. He is Samoan, and was a tattoo artist pre-mission. He did some work to remove some of the most visible ones, but still had quite a few. The long-sleeve white shirts covered things, but you can imagine that people could see that church members and missionaries are real people. This is becoming more and more the case as the membership of the church diversifies. I love it.
I know this comment was a while ago but I’d like to make a comment. I have a tattoo I got on my ankle during my rebellious phase. I served a mission in 1996.I never had a problem from other missionaries or mission leaders. If anything it showed that I was human when it came down to our investigators seeing it.
Would be smarter to save money for college, and why is it that god always needs MONEY! money money money! You people are gullible.
Save for both.
God doesn’t need money. Living has a price tag attached to it. Plus the “money” god gets goes towards better things and helps others.
I can’t wait till I go on my mission, next year.
Temples temples temples…and a wealthy one, and two…and 12….and 70. Mormon Inc….
Better get on board brother, time won’t wait for you!
Don’t do it! The worst 2 years of your life, I promise.
If you truly went on a mission and this was all you had to say about it, then I guess you truly didn’t “get it.” Feel for ya. I’ve heard from a number of people that have left the church after their missions and even they loved their missions. I guess there are seldom few that don’t enjoy it. Usually cause they don’t understand the blessings involved.
Haha i bet Reichelt was kidding..and got a reaction.
I agree. This person truly didn’t get it. Anytime you serve another human being it is an amazing experience. I do not only mean an LDS mission either; I had a brother in law who served a Catholic mission and he worked hard serving others. He says it was the best time of his life even though he had hardships. Service is the key.
LDS missionaries are there for service. They are required to do service every single week; so many who are not LDS misunderstand the purpose. It’s not about sales pitches, it’s not about numbers, it’s not about self pride. It’s about service. It’s about doing the Lord’s work and serving others. What did Christ do? He left his family and served the people. He taught His gospel but never forced anyone to accept it. Our LDS Missionaries follow His example, serving and teaching. Any who do not accept the gopsel are never forced, and if they need help we still give it to them. They are true disciples of the Lord.
Yes. No dissent is serious. The person is speaking in jest. Please don’t take dissent seriously.
Totally agree. I had a friend that served overseas in a tough area as far as sharing the gospel. He had zero conversions during his mission but he and his companion still went out to serve.
He mentioned one in which he and his companion would wash a non member ladies car once a week for most of his mission.
He is still active and is now happily raising a family in the gospel.
Wow….I’ve NEVER heard that in my life. Literally. I’ve always heard the “BEST” 2 years. I wonder where you get your information. Even people who have fallen away from this faith still admitted to LOVING the experiences their mission gave them. haha. What does that tell you?
I served a mission and I would definitely say it was NOT the best two years of my life up to that point.
I would say that it WAS the best spent up to that point. Being a missionary is hard work, full of frustration, sadness and rejection. It is a grind. Don’t let people fool you. It is hard work. The end result of all of it is a change in the lives of the people you meet, and a dramatic change in your life.
“Any man who has been married for at least two years that still refers to their missions as the best two years of their life should be shot.” -A really smart man.
i don’t know why Humans turn to think we are wiser than our LORD who served many others. Pls dont be a confused priesthood holder, it is bad for a priesthood holder to say that. i recommend u read Eccl 5:6
Bad do say what? What did I say that was bad? Kind of confused at your comment.
When return missionaries say it was the best 2 years of their lives, it was not because it was fun or because it was a “vacation”. It was because it was hard, tears were shed for their brothers and sisters, they had to stretch themselves to the point that they never knew they could. And then they come home a changed man or woman. Being married for 23 years, looking back at the beginning of my marriage, it was the best 2 years. Was it easy? We had lots of struggles…2 people learning how to live together, kids, diseases, budget, jobs, all that responsibility etc. But now, with all the things that I have learned from the beginning of my marriage and all the hardships and trials, my experience has made my marriage everyday awesome!!!!!
Go on a mission, it is not easy, but it is worth it. Hard? Yes. But you will discover that you can love others like Jesus Christ does, you can suffer with the ones that are suffering, but you can help them find relief through the Gospel of Jesus Christ… Make your mission awesome!!!
your reply is amazing, i have been on the edge on going on a mission, my boyfriend is on his and loves the work. i go with the sisters missionary in my ward often and wow. they are so amazing and fun to be with along with teaching other. no its not easy, but is life suppose to be? test and trial, if we turn to heavenly father will bring us closer to him.
haha this made me laugh in a good way. I guess you are right… if these two years are the only years that are the BEST we will be miserable. Any year that the Lord gives us should be fill the BEST days of our lives. WE just have to serve others and love those moments that surround us.
When my brother was 18, someone jokingly told him the same thing you wrote. It shook him tho the point that he just… never went. It has been almost 10 years and he has been inactive for most of that time. My mom asked him once whether he ever regretted not serving a mission and my brother looked her right in the eye and said “every day of my life”. The choice to serve a mission should never be taken lightly. If you have honestly prayed and feel like you shouldn’t go, that is between you and our Heavenly Father. If you have the opportunity to go and you chose not to because someone else had a bad experience, then you are opening yourself up to a lifetime of regret and missed opportunities. I testify that my “mini mission” was the best (if most tiring) 2-weeks of my life and I cannot wait for the full-time mission to come.
Great site with alot of info
to those who say don’t do it! I ask, do you suggest the same to those who go to college and don’t have a good experience or if you have a bad experience on a date, never date again.
Like all things in life we usually benefit from an experience in accordance with what we put into it.
For those who seek to serve their fellow man this is one of many great opportunities life offers. The 2 years I served were the best and the worst up until then. The same can be said of my 30 years of marriage since then. With age and life experiences comes wisdom. I am now wise enough to recognize that the bad times are necessary for my personal growth. ( and that most of the time the bad experiences were brought on by my own selfishness
Thanks Jimmy for taking the time to set up this site
awesome comment! Thanks for posting. It is always nice to hear the good and bad, that you loved it despite the hardships. Isn’t it true though? The best things are the things that you have to work the hardest for? thanks 🙂
I am prospective missionary and currently on Medical examination for my Mission. My both parents deceased ( Father left me when I was one year old and my mom left me when I was 14. I was and still brought up by my elder brother. My family members are all strong catholics and am the only one who join the lds church. Am unemployed and my relatives are agaisnting me for financial support for my mission. Now the time has come to submit my mission form and I am really in doubt because I dont have any money for my mission. With no doubt I will really rely on Book of Alma for mission.
Elder Patrick,
Your amazing. You really need to come over to Australia, bishop has told us
pretty much that they have the budget for 4missionaries but noone in our ward
is worthy enough or no motivation to get out into the field. Even with expenses
paid, sad really.
But i know that through your hard work and dillegence, your mission will mean so much more with all your blood sweat and tears! Lol Best of luck to you!
Kristen A so true. Somehow i find myself being more broke when i miss paying my tithing! Go figure but so true.
Goodluck Bobby, srick it out. Be patient, filling out your papers really test ya and its only the beginning.
No one who desires to serve is turned away. xo
Elder Patrick (to be),
It is so amazing that you have such faith and devotion to this church! I love hearing of others who have been through so much and are willing to sacrifice even more in order for the work to go forward. You are an amazing example to all of us and I wish you the VERY best of luck on your mission! I’m sure things will work out financially for you if you just have faith and rely on Heavenly Father. That’s what this life is all about right? I love this gospel and I know it’s going to be a lot of work but slowly I’m saving up for my own mission and I hope to be able to serve the Lord. Good luck to everyone else out there trying to do the same!
I love to see you young people so eager to do something right. I pay into the missionary fund every month so that ALL of you who desire to go on a mission can! Do not ever worry about HOW you will pay…just prepare yourself to go and do the Lord’s work. Trust always in the Lord…
Thank you Jeri, for your faith! I am a convert to the church (will be three years this coming Wednesday!) so I didn’t have the option to save up during my childhood. It will be difficult for me to save up enough money to purchase the things I will need to take with my on my mission, let alone the cost of the mission itself. It is because of faithful members like you that I will be able to serve a mission for the Lord. I know that the Lord wants me to serve a mission, and that he will open the necessary doors for me to be able to do so. ~Sister Baum, to be.
To everyone out there wondering how you are going to pay for your mission, I would like to share my own experience. I am a convert to the Church and decided that I wanted to serve a mission. I was in school full time and trying to save as much as I could while paying off debts so I wouldn’t have to worry about them while I was gone. The best thing I ever did was to pay my tithing. I promise you that if you pay your tithing and do your best to save, the Lord will take care of the rest. People (like Jeri) are paying into the missionary fund. Or for me, I showed up at the temple one day and someone offered to pay for my entire mission. God blesses those who desire to serve Him. I don’t regret for a moment my decision to serve a mission.
Kristen! Thank you for sharing this! What a beautiful story of faith and the blessings that followed! xoxo
THAT is incredible. What a blessing?
Im 18 and will be 19 in a couple of months and im so excited to serve a mission. i wasnt sure i wanted to until recently but now its all i can think about. i have a question though if anyone has an answer it would be greatly appreciated. I take two psych meds and i was wondering if that prohibits me from serving a foreign mission. i will be happy wherever im am called i just want to know if that restricts where i go
I know what you are talking about. I wasn’t sure either, I wasn’t sure if I was good enough to serve a mission and now I know that I am good enough. I actually have a meeting with my bishop soon for my patriarchal blessing and i am looking forward to it. Now I know that if I am worthy for a patriarchal blessing, I am worthy to go on a mission as well. I wish you the best of luck to you when you go on your mission. God Bless.
From my understanding(which admittedly is slightly limited), it depends on if those meds are available in the specific country. For example: the meds you take are likely available almost anywhere in the U.S., and would therefore not cause an issue to serving in the U.S. However, if the meds were unavailable in, say, Chile(just to spurt out a name), then it’s likely that you wouldn’t be able to serve a mission there due to the unavailability.
Also, if you are taking psych meds it’s likely that they’ll do an interview specific to what your psychological condition is to determine your ability to go through the stresses inherent in a mission.
But as far as prohibiting you from going on a mission? No, not that i’m aware of.
Bobby, In your missionary application forms, your will be asked to provide many details on your health, including medications you are taking. Your doctor will also fill out a portion of the paperwork, and his or her recommendation about whether or not you can serve abroad will be taken into account by Church headquarters. The Church missionary department also has doctors who will review your medical information and make a recommendation whether or not you can serve a foreign mission. If the doctors say you can serve abroad, then that won’t be a restriction when the apostles meet to determine your mission assignment. I hope that helps.
Thanks for this reply Jimmy, I was about to ask to be notified if he got an answer as it has been on my mind too as far as my medications go. I only have one that I take twice a day so it shouldn’t be a problem for me but I am glad you answered and that I found this answer.
My dad says he thinks they will keep me in the US as I have medical appointments through the Veteran Hospitals but I suppose all will be revealed in due time. I feel if I am truly on the right path in choosing to serve the Lord will prepare the way, correct?
I am wanting to go on a mission myself but I have heard so many negitive things about the church that I doubt the truth of it and I begin to wonder if I really should go…
Allan, you know that you are a child of your Heavenly Father. With human frailty, it becomes difficult at times to have confidence in your worth. Especially when it comes to decisions that have eternal outcomes. The diabolical one knows what you are capable of, and will do everything in his power to make you feel doubtful and weak. YOU ARE NOT WEAK. Your Heavenly Father knows of your potential. I don’t know if this will help you, but I feel that you should know that if you’re being attacked by what others say about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and whatever the devil may throw at you, know this:
It’s not that you’re that weak.
You’re simply that valuable.
In war, you take out the leaders of the opposing side. Satan made his choice, and he lost, you can still win, just let the Atonement take over.
Give Him your fears, he’ll guide and comfort you far better than any worldly idea or ideology.
With Him on your side, YOU CAN’T LOSE.
At the risk of sounding self-righteous, I know that if the Atonement wasn’t real, if it didn’t happen, WHICH IT DID, I would not be here today, I would not feel a desire to serve the Lord of my own accord.
You have your agency to choose.
I can testify that as soon as you decide to serve, the Lord will immediately bless you for that decision.
You are loved by Heavenly Father.
Don’t forget it.
Allan, I to had that same problem. I had a testimony in the church, wanted to go on a mission, and do the lords will. But as I grew older and the time grew closer for me to go I slowly turned away from the church. For one reason or another I did not want to believe anymore. I went down a path that I am very lucky to have been able to come back from. A mission is a very personal choice, and sometimes we as young men in the church and feel bery pressured into going. No offence to anyone here meant. And I am not trying to pressure you into it I promise. But as a son of our almight Lord and Savior, I testify to you that the gospet can do wonders. It heals broken homes, brings happiness, blessings, and testimonies. I TESTIFY THAT THIS GOSPEL IS TRUE. and if you embrace it you will find what you are looking for and you will believe. Best of luck to you my friend, and remember we are all part of the Kingdom of God. A God of truth and right who wants nothing more than for us to return to him. I turn in my papers on June 18 and it is the best choice I have made in my life to date.
First, Congratulations Jeff! I want to thank you for your exceeding faith! The Lord needs missionaries who have been dragged through the mud and muck of life and who have come back with a strong testimony! By enduring through those trials, you will find that someone on your mission will be touched because you went through the same thing that they are going through, and you BEAT IT! While we all need to repent for the mistakes we make, we should never forget them. It helps us to remain humble, and in the case of serving a mission, will help us to relate better to the people we will teach. I am a convert to the church; this coming Wednesday (May 11th, 2011) will be three years since I was confirmed a member of the church. I will eternally be grateful to those two Elders who didn’t simply give up and go home because everyone else that day had slammed the door in their faces; that they followed the prompting of the spirit to knock on my door, and didn’t give up on the stubborn, hard-headed girl that I used to be. Because of their faith, I have enjoyed three amazing, wonderful years of peace and joy in the knowledge that I am a Child of God, and NOTHING that the world or Satan can throw my way can take that from me. Because of their righteous influence (and many other wonderful members I have met) I will serve a full-time mission so that I might share the light and peace that I have found. Never take your eyes off of your goal, my friend, for that is when Satan can blind us with his temptations. I wish you the best of luck on your mission! ~Sister Baum, to be.
For the past two weeks I have been praying fervently (after a meeting with my Branch President about going to the temple yielded a gentle nudge to serve a mission) to know if serving a mission is what the Lord would have me do right now. This past sunday I received my answer, and I officially started personal preparations for serving a mission today. I know with all my heart and soul that this is the Lord’s true church and that there is someone out there who needs to hear that from me. I have a bit of work to do before I can put in my papers, but I know that through my hard work and diligence, the Lord will bless me and my family. I can’t wait until I have one of those sacred black name tags that reads “Sister Baum, Missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints”!
WOW!! i am waiting for my last interviw to send out my papers ! i am so excited! to serve, it s not about money it is about faith, just let’s do it god knows evething a,i just have the faith and corage to go on my mission no money at all just to pay my bills and buy my cloth to gon on my mission,that i though when my bipshop told me sister some of the members of the ward are going to pay you mission i realize god has control on my life to take away and give me. jesua patrick thank you for be an great example for me i though it was hard that my father and mom can not help me with my mission because they jus has money to pay bills and thing, but i cant see i cant not be unthanksful with the lord there are more people in really wors cituations with a most bigger croos on the back more bigger then mine and you and encorage me with you testimony! for all people whos are always thinking about just money! read mathew 6:33 and dont worry God knows your good heart! serve to the lord is the best thing ever! i cant wait to serve!
Thanks to you all for your strengthening comments. Something inside me has suddenly changed the last several weeks. I have considered going on a mission before, but have always been held back by th thought of being called somewhere simple or not serving foreign. With the recent departure of my closest friend to her own mission, I found myself on my knees begging for comfort. I found myseslf consumed by the idea of serving a mission myself but continued to have doubts with my being “okay” with my call. I’m SO excited to say that I have come to the decision that no matter where I’m called or what language I speak, if I am serving the Lord I am where I need to be!!! I know this gospel is true! I know it with every fiber if my being!
Kristen A., thank you so much for your testimony about struggling with money. I am in a similar situation at the moment. I just finished college and am trying to pay off the last of my student loans. I’ve found that even with putting all the money I have towards those debts and anything extra to a mission, I fall the entire amount short to get out into the field and serve the Lord. I am a bit discouraged due to my family’s inability to help me out at all, but I pray that the Lord will see the desires of my heart and will send an answer to my prayers. I plan a trip to the temple tomorrow and an added measure of money to go towards fast offerings and the missionary fund. Thanks again for your testimony!! It’s what I needed to hear to give me hope!
I know that if I put my trust in the Lord and have righteous desires, I know that He will guide me in the right direction! D&C 6:33. “Fear not to do good…” 🙂
Brenna, you sound like my twin, seriously! Get out of my head. 🙂 Everything you said – especially the first part of your comment – is exactly things I’ve been thinking on and off. I’m about 18 credits from graduating college and I’m almost 28 years old, and now the whole ‘will it be Nebraska or Namibia’? about the mission call is on my mind on top of it all. When I feel the full fire I once felt when my bishop had my papers, and I know it’s for the right reasons, I’m there (student loans aside!).
Hi,I dont know how I happend to get on this site and read about all you wonderful young people wanting to serve the lord,I retired as a teacher in May and am waitlng for my mission call from Salt Lake,I am excited about my mission and whereever I am send I know that its where the Lord needs me.Good luck to you all prospective missionaires,dont give up,Heavenly Father will be there to help you.
I just figured out how much i can have saved in 9 months from now it’s about a little over 2200 euros which is about 3300 dollars atm… it discourages me knowing I still can’t pay even half of my mission around the time I can leave… i know my bishop will only ask me to save as much as i can… but I want him to keep that money he was about to spend on my mission for a someone who can’t come up with the money and is a guy, someone who was commanded to go by the Lord himself.
I know my parents can’t help me like they helped my brother 9 years ago, since they have financial problems themselves… what can I do?? i am willing to do almost everything…
Lydia,
I have been feeling the full weight of financial struggles myself. When I made the decision to start preparing for a mission, I realized I was thousands of dollars in debt, let alone not able to make enough money in the time frame I wanted to leave! Neither of my parents are able to help, and I felt so discouraged… The two things that have helped me in the same situation you’re in are: A) Deep, sincere communication with your Heavenly Father about your situation, and B) An increased amount in fast offerings! I have such a testimony if both at this time…MIRACLES HAPPEN!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂 Whether that’s the Lord guiding you to a second or third income or being blessed with Angels that come into your life who are willing to help fund your mission! 😉 Don’t give up hope! I promise you that as you live faithful to the commandments and take your struggles to the Lord, he will bless you beyond anything you could have ever imagined! 🙂 D&C 68:5-6. 🙂 🙂 I’ll keep you in my prayers!
Might as well throw in my two cents here too. Turning 22 in 3 days and will be having my 2nd interview in 2 days. I’m excited, scared, and humbled. I’ve worked my tail off all summer. 2 jobs – 60 hours a week and I only have over half the money. I was told my ward would help me and that is so amazing to hear. I barely know these people and they want to help me. I should mention I’m also a conversation to thechuch of about 3 years and the only member of a non-active catholic family. They said they can’t support me financially and are pressing on me to not go, but I know the Lord wants me out there and I know I want to be out there to help others know of the things I’ve come to know. It is true. God does live. He does love us. This is Christs church and I know it to be true. I hope any others out there in similar shoes as me will pray to know if its right for them to serve.
With all the young people out there, I feel a little like a duck out of water. I’m a widowed sister in my early 50’s, my eternal mate went home about two years ago. The spirit has been prompting me to inquire about a “Senior Mission”; perhaps with another sister. I’ve heard there are such mission available for sisters such as I. I’m not sure if the cost would vary and I guess the Bishop is the first to discuss this with. Although, there are so many young brothers and sisters out there that need financial assistance for their missions, that would be a worthy cause as well. However, the Holy Spirit has testified to me so strongly regarding a mission…….
wow…I am writing on this site once again! Only this time it is several months later and with some great news! 🙂 After all of the struggles with money and loans and debt…I am so excited to say that I received my call this past week! Washington, Spokane Mission! Not at all what I anticipated or expected, but I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Lord. 🙂 I leave fairly quickly for the MTC (7 weeks) but I know the Lord will take care of me. 🙂 Thanks again for all of your comments…they truly strengthened me when I was feeling down or worried about my situations! 🙂 This gospel is TRUE! I know it with all of my heart! 🙂 Miracles DO come to those that have the desire to serve! 🙂
Brenna, Congratulations on your mission call! You will be a great missionary. Thanks for sharing your story and your testimony with us.
hey I am almost 19 and until this last summer I have been doing chemotherapy every year. I only have a measly 1,500 dollars saved what can I do? Do I need to wait and earn money for a while. My family can pay, but is that a lack of dedication on my part?
Charles, It doesn’t sound like a lack of dedication or anything of the sort. You’ll have to work out the financial situation with your parents and bishop. But if you and your parents can assure the bishop that the money will be there each month to pay for your mission, I’m guessing there will be no reason to delay submitting your papers and going on your mission. I’m glad to hear you are well enough to serve a mission. May God bless and be with you and your family.
My best advice to anyone out there concerned with going on a mission for whatever reason: Go. do not fret or worry about the things you THINK are keeping you from it. the lord knows your trials and will prepare a way for you to overcome them and serve in the gospel (1 nep 3:7 says, “…for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them.”).
there are people waiting for you to teach them the gospel, even if they do not know it themselves. there will be people on this earth that the lord knows will only be able to learn the gospel properly from you. if you do not, those people may never know of god, and if they do they may never become converted to the true and everlasting gospel. So go. help those people that only you can help.
I had a rough life spiritually in my teen years, i have no money to my name, and i am almost two years late filling out my papers, but i am not letting that get in my way, because the lords will is stronger than any earthly force. if i live on the street for being poor, so be it, as long as the lord lives in my heart and I do what i know to be true and right, i will continue on. ETTE, Endure To The End.
Hi, Everyone, I know this is a super long post, but…..I am needing some advice, please. I have been SO amazingly blessed in my life, I can’t believe how much! I am so very thankful for all of these blessings and I make sure I pray diligently when I get a blessing to thank Heavenly Father for everything. Well lately I have been thinking, “Wow, God has give me so much and yet I feel like I haven’t been, well in a sense doing anything for him to fully thank him for it all”. I mean I go to church and love it so much, I pay my tithing, I honor my church callings, try really hard to do my visiting teaching, but sometimes my partner’s and my schedule conflict, but we are constantly trying to work out our schedules to match so we can go teach….I love visiting teaching. I study the scriptures and search very hard trying to understand it…..I grew up in a less active family so I don’t fully understand the scriptures like most people my age do.
Well I decided to pray and ask God what he would like me to do, because i really wanted to show my gratitude to him…had an impression that maybe a mission would be the place for me. I fully know that this gospel is true, i love the gospel and want to share it with all. but the thought frightened me!!! I am no where near financially ready to go, i have an amazing job as a nurse that i worked so hard to accomplish this dream of being a nurse that i can’t imagine leaving it, I desire to be married and be a mom so so so much, I’m 21 and just getting the feeling for being on my own after almost 3yrs, and the biggest hurdle of all is…I don’t feel anywhere near knowledge wise ready to go…I am confused most days in church and institute and have tons of questions to still ask and alot more studying to do before i can even feel a little bit ready knowledge wise to go. I know i am probably being selfish feeling like i can’t go on a mission because i don’t want to leave my job and i really want to get married, and i am probably lacking in faith that God will help me to know what to say when the time comes to teach even if i don’t feel i have sufficient knowledge yet of the gospel.
If you have read this whole entire post I thank you so much!! I am needing some advice, thank you again for taking the time read this and help me out
Stephanie, You are wrestling with a question that can be difficult to answer, and ultimately, it is up to you and the Lord. Joseph Smith is reported to have once said that he makes it a rule: when the Lord commands, I obey. If you feel that the Lord has prompted you to go on a mission, or if you feel the prompting is to explore the possibility of going on a mission, then you will want to follow that prompting. Of course, mission preparation is best if you can do it throughout your life, but you can still become well prepared in a few months with the help of the Lord. In fact, regardless of one’s knowledge of the gospel, a good missionary is one that relies on the Lord, not on his or her own understanding.
My advice is to continue to pray and seek the direction of the Lord. Talk to your parents, family, and friends. Talk to your bishop or other church leaders. Perhaps sign up for a mission prep class in your stake or in a nearby Institute program. I know that, with faith in the Lord, you will receive the guidance you need and you will know whether or not you should go on a mission. Good luck, and may God bless and be with you.
Thank you for what you said. I have been struggling with deciding to serve a mission or not. It just seems so scary and I know and I am terrified of going and having to come back for one reason or another but I have begun to feel like through small promptings that that is what the lord wants me to do and what you said really pushed me to realize it.
When is the 400 need by every month? And where do you find that answer?
The $400 is pulled out of your ward’s bank account by Church headquarters each month. I do not know on what day, but your bishop should know. When you find out, please let the rest of us know. Thanks.
I am being baptized into the church in one month and one day. After reading along and seeing all of these wonderful posts it has caused me to ponder if I will ever be able to go on a mission someday. I am 24 and married. My husband is in the military and not a member of the church. We are currently stationed overseas. My question is what does a married sister do for mission? My sister missionaries are so lovely and wonderful but I noticed they are all young ladies and not married. Will I be able to serve the same type of mission they are or would mine be different due to being a married to a non church member.
Congratulations on your upcoming baptism! I hope it is a wonderful day. I’m sure it will be. I still remember vividly my baptism.
With perhaps only a few exceptions, young married people do not serve full-time missions for the LDS Church. The primary reason for this is the importance of the family; Church leaders want young married couples to focus their time and energy on the vitally important task of raising a family up unto the Lord. As you know, the Church has a large force of young people who do missionary work before they get married. And older couples, once their kids are grown, often go on full-time missions as well.
While a full-time mission may not be in your immediate future, you there are still many ways that you can serve God and serve your fellow beings. You can do missionary work by sharing the restored gospel of Jesus Christ with your family, friends, and neighbors. Once you are a member of the Church, in your congregation, you will be given a “calling” or assignment to help and serve in some capacity. You can prepare now to serve a full-time mission later in life by studying the scriptures, and learning more about the gospel. You can also prepare to go to the temple some day, and do much great service there.
I hope this answers your questions. Let me know if you need anything else.
A couple of remarks about money for those thinking about a mission.
I was blessed to have the opportunity to work hard and save enough money for my mission to Japan. I also gave up a scholarship. At one point I had a lazy companion who didn’t have to work to pay for his mission. He was not just wasting his folks money, he was not just wasting his previous companion’s folk’s money any more, HE WAS WASTING MINE! You can fill in the unpleasant details with your imagination, how that worked out…
If you have to sweat a little or even a lot to earn the money for anything , it will make you that much more motivated. But there is a limit and sometimes economic reality prevents you from reaching your goals. Do not give up when it comes to financing missions.
Many people may not understand how money in the church works. For example, the tithing collected in my ward more than doubled when one guy I will call Bro. Deep Pockets moved in. How? Bro. Deep Pockets owns a profitable company he had built himself. He made $20 million dollars in one year and paid more tithing than the entire rest of the ward. Something like 5-10% of the church membership pays 90% of the dollar amount of tithing, I don’t have exact figures, but you get the picture.
if you happened to live in Bro. Deep Pockets ward, he would gladly finance your mission, working through the Bishop. You might never know who he was. Every time he makes another $40,000, he sends $1 to the ward missionary fund and he’s got you covered. The LDS church has more Bro. Deep Pockets in the wings quietly willing to finance missionaries than it has members in the Tab Choir. Seriously.
J. Golden Kimball (died 1933) once advised a young man to sell his team of two white horses he needed for his freighting business in order to finance his mission. Kimball promised him that the Lord would provide. After the mission, with no horses in sight, the young missionary paid Kimball a visit to inquire what he was to do next. Kimball took him out to the barn and gave him two horses, not quite as good but adequate. When Sister Kimball asked her husband what he was doing giving their best horses away, Golden replied: “If the Lord won’t keep his promises , by H&!! I will.”
When you have done everything you can do, the help will come. Yes, miracles might happen. But even if they don’t, many Bro. Deep Pockets are there and even a few J Golden’s might still be around, you never know. It is done in a way that won’t destroy your self-respect and decrease your motivation. So that you can look Bro. Deep Pockets in the eye at the end of the day and say: I did my part, did you? And he can say: my part was easy, moreso than yours.
Need some guidance here please, mother of son trying to prepare for mission. I just called to make the appoitment for his medical and found out our insurance won’t pay it- nor will they pay for the dental. I am unable to pay out of pocket and need to know if there are other resources. I never thought this would be an issue and am so disapointed. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I want to go on a mission,but I am scared to lose everything I have. My apt, my things,and if I go am not sure where I would live when I return. I want to go,but I guess im holding myself back. I literally have 60bucks to my name and barely enough food on thd table. I am unsure of what comes next but im sure I want to go on a mission. I need help and guidance. My email is ebony1true@yahoo.com
Jimmy….comment?
Guys please i want an honest answer to the experienced ones.Is it possible to choose where you want to serve.I mean i would love to have a new experience in another continenent.Although i have sent my application for over a month now.Thnaks
Richard, when you send in your missionary application, you agree to go wherever the Lord sends you. It may be to a far away continent, but it may be in your home country. You may want to read my my post called I Will Go Where You Want Me to Go. Good luck and God bless.
Thank you so much for this post! My mother was the first mormon ever in my family. My father is not a member but supports my siblings and mom and I. I have one brother, who did not serve a mission. I’m thirteen, almost fourteen, and have been raised my whole life in a very small branch. There’re are a total of three LDS kids in my school district, one of them is my younger sister. I am the only young woman. Lately I think very often about maybe going on a mission, and now I’m sure. I know I want to, I know I need to. Now it’s a constant thought lingering in my head. I just need strength now to mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially prepare for this. And if anyone could share with me advice, or just say a little prayer for me, I would more than appreciate it.
-sister Olivia Murray jr.
Olivia, We’ll be praying for you and your family. May the Lord bless and be with you.
Hi! I love this site lots of information. I’m a convert to the church for 2 years and 3 months ago. I decided to serve a mission last year and I have tried to save up as much money as I can with job to job and I live in a place where there is not many jobs and now that I have sent my papers in and got my call and I leave in 6 days to enter the MTC I dont have even half of my mission money. I don’t want this to go onto my parents cause I’m the only member in my family and I don’t know what to do. I mean I’m going to talk to my bishop tonight about a plan but will they delay my mission cause of the money. I only have 1300 dollars saved up from paying car insurence, gas for the vehicle, paying on the loan for my car and buying my mission stuff thats how much i have. I feel horrible and I feel like i have let my heavenly father down for not saving enough money.
Kenny, Talk to your bishop as soon as possible. He should be able to help you work out the financial situation. And I’d be very surprised if this caused a delay in you entering the MTC. Good luck and God bless you on your mission.
This story makes me so sad. Does this really sound like this is what God wants for his children?
Well I get to start my papers on october 1st and the anticipation is killing me!!! I am more and more excited each and every day although I have only been a member for a little over a year. I believe that even though I am young in the church I will be able to speak with the power of the Spirit on my mission. I am super excited to go and to start my papers and what not. My only fears are not being able to pay for a mission or even for the dental or medical paperwork. You see, my parents pretty much disowned me for becoming LDS and they told me that they would never support me in my choices in being LDS and they dislike the fact that i am going on a mission even more. So if there are any return missionaries that could speak to me about their experiences on their mission or help that they can provide about preparing to on a mission please email me at dakotacrisp@charter.net. Thanks!!
Well as for my parents, their parents or before that for the history, no one didn’t serve a mission because they weren’t members, and they didn’t know nothing about it. My Mum, got sealed with her family at the Temple when she was 4 years old, and as for my Dad, he is a convert and got baptised when he was 19 years. So anyway, I will be the first person to become a missionary out of my family history for both sides of my Mum and Dad’s side. So I am excited to serve a mission in less than 2 years and a half. So please email me on meganfb4@greenaus.com if you want to reply, what you think about that.
I am so glad I found this post!! I am just now finishing up my paperwork to serve my mission and I am rediculously excited! Thinking about going takes up 90% of my thought process each day (to the point that I picked up my papers and had them completely finished, including physicals and interviews within 2 weeks). I had recently read some posts about how horrible mormon missions are and tons of peoples horrible experiences of people going on missions and leaving the church. When I first read these I became very discouraged and had a hard time with my preparations. Now if you knew me, you would know that in no way will I EVER doubt the church or its gospel. So this was wierd for me. While reading my scriptures I read over D&C 12: 7-9 and recieved my answer once again. I also realised that those doubts were obviously being caused by satan. Right then and there I pledged that nothing was stopping my from going on this mission because if there is something satan does not want me to do I will most certainly do just that. I figured this may help those who have also been reading these things around the internet and doubting.
I was thinking about going on a mission but i didn’t know it was so much money. so this is my question how much should i have save before filling out my papers?
Luis, There is no set amount you have to have saved before filling out your papers.
You will need to be prepared to talk to your bishop, though, about how you plan to fully pay for your mission. Good luck, and God bless.
“Missionaries who cannot save the required funds may also obtain assistance from their home ward or stake, though personal and family sources of funds should be exhausted first.”
Thanks mom and dad, sorry you’re broke. By the way don’t forget to pay your 10% every month as you have for years. Why does this just seem wrong to me? With the significant financial resources of the church you would think they would be more supportive financially. But, like any corporation…Oops…I mean ‘religion’ it’s all about the bottom line.
Invest in your education, not getting more church customers.
Steve,
I know this is late, but this is the first time I’ve found this site.
Do you know what tithing really is? We do give up 10% of our income, but it’s to the Lord. No members of our church get paid for their service. The money we donate is given to those in need. And the members who pay their tithing are always blessed for it. It’s a part of faith. You have to trust enough to give without seeing the consequence. “Ye recieve no witness until after th trial of your faith” Ether 12:6.
My grandparents ( my mom’s whole family) are of a different faith. They pay their preachers every Sunday. They are doing what they know, and I commend anyone who still believes in religion. But it is different in our church. It’s not about getting gain. It’s about giving. It’s about serving. 🙂
Can i help a friend who is a mormon with a donation to him when he goes on his mission even though im not of the mormon faith?
Absolutely. The best thing to do would be to coordinate this with his family and/or his bishop. But if you’re looking for a website or something to make a donation in his name, I don’t think there is one.
I havent spoken to him directly regarding a monetary gift for him, he has his interviews and applications to sort through still. I was just enquiring whether it is allowed in your religion to recieve cash gifts for religious purposes. Im unsure whether he would accept or not but i would like to do this for him.
I havent met his family yet and dont know who his bishop is, ive worked with him for over a year and hes spoken to me about mormonism and recently his wanting to complete a mission.
Thank you for your quick reply it is appreciated.
I converted to the church in August of last year, and I have felt the spirit so strongly that I’m going to be serving a mission within the next few months! I have never been more excited in my life, knowing all of these blessings are coming this way. I have some money saved up, but my parents have refused to pay for any of my mission (They’re anti-religious) and I’m so afraid that I won’t be able to meet the 400 a month that I need. But I know that Heavenly Father will find a way to provide for me!
Hey , did you go on your mission in the end? 😀
SIster Sky from England
Hi, I was wondering how long the mormon prep process is? My bishop told me I still might be able to go on a mission even though I have Fathered a child I don’t take care of, but it depends on the stake president. How long does it take to meet him and how long does his response take after I have met with him? Does he tell you on the spot if you cannot serve a mission or do I have to submit my papers and everything first? How often do people get declined for missions? Thanks!
While it is possible for someone who has fathered a child to go on a mission, it is highly unusual. I applaud your righteous desires to serve a mission. I believe, if an exception is to be made, your bishop and stake president would have to make an application to the First Presidency. You’ll have to talk to them about that process.
If a full-time mission is not be possible for you, there are still plenty of ways you can serve and help the kingdom of God grow. There are Church service mission (non-full-time mission) opportunities, you can serve diligently in a calling in your ward or stake, and of course you can share the gospel with your friends and neighbors.
Good luck and God bless.
I am a member of a little less than a month and I was thinking of going on a mission. Can you still serve a mission even if you can not contribute at all?
The prophet has said that he doesn’t want a lack a money to prevent anyone from going on a mission. Still, he has asked that each person do their best to pay for their own mission. This means saving all that you reasonably can and asking your family and friends to help contribute to your mission fund. If you have done all of that, and still don’t have enough to pay for your mission, talk to your bishop. You should still be able to go on a mission and your bishop will help you through the process. Good luck and God bless.
We thought it was a great idea to have children one after the other but didn’t expect all boys! Our first leaves in a week and the 2nd will be going next May ( we think). Anyway, I was SHOCKED to hear that missionaries pay $400 for 25 months, not 24! My son enters MTC on August 28th and has to pay $400 for August though he’s only serving 3days that month. He is ALSO expected to pay in August two years from now too. I wouldn’t get so anxious about this but it adds up to $1600 extra we’re paying for our four boys. Is this really true?! Everybody is saying that but I don’t want to believe it.
Can you go on a mission if you have a government student loan? I can defer it until I get home and return to school but will the church allow that or will I have to pay the loan in full before serving?
Yes, you can still go on a mission if you have an outstanding student loan. You will need to make sure arrangements are made so you are not delinquent on the loan while you are gone on your mission. That can be done either with a deferment or by making sure your parents are making the payments for you while you are gone. Good luck, and God bless you on your mission.
Great post! I have a technical question. We have a young friend who is preparing for a mission but worried about money. We would like to help him with some of the monthly cost, but we live in a different ward (same stake). How can we do that? If we contribute to the ward mission fund, it will help those serving from our ward who are not nearly under the same financial constraints. Should we write checks to him directly?
Nancy, You have a couple of options.
1. You can make a donation to the ward mission fund of the other ward where the missionary in need is from. Just give the check and donation slip to that bishop.
2. You can give the money to the family of the missionary in need and they can pay it to his ward’s missionary fund.
I hope this helps.
Do I pay for my mission all at once? Or do I pay with installments? I haven’t found anything yet on how that works.
Merrie, Church headquarters pulls the monthly amount out of your ward’s missionary fund once a month to pay for your mission. It is generally encouraged for your family to pay the amount each month into the ward missionary fund, rather than paying it all up front. But this is something you can and should work out with your bishop.
HEY! I am 17 and want to go on a mission. I have a job but it pays minimum wage. My mom suggested getting a second job but i have my senior year to finish. she said i cant turn in my papers until i have ALL of the money…What do i do?
my sister is serving in the nicaragua managua north mission and i want to follow her example.
In saving for a mission should we expect the $400/month cost to increase in time due to inflation?
Im so scared. Im a convert and i want to go on a mission but i dont have alot of money, how can i serve? will the church pay it? im 19
We had a missionary in our ward who was 26. If waiting makes it easier, you don’t have to go at 19. If you really can’t make it work now and you have prayed about it, there is always a senior mission. Or, even less expensive, live a missionary life. Share the gospel with those around you and live a life worthy of one serving Heavenly Father. I hope this helps. Good luck!
Maximilian-there is no need to be scared about not having enough money. Simply go to your bishop and tell him that you want to serve and that money is tight. He will take it from there. In every ward there are people who cannot go on missions but will support those who can. Every ward/stake has a ward mission fund and the bishop will give you the advise and direction you need. He will be so happy to have you talk with him about your desire to go on a mission! All the best to you as you make your preparations!
I ope I will be able to be on a mission and so I will be able bless peoples lifes like the missionaries saved my families and mine
So I have never in my life wanted to serve a mission, I never felt that it was right for me. So, I’m a month into my freshman year of college and a dear friend of mine calls me one day and says that she truly feels that I need to start praying about it, that she feels that I need to consider it. I have already taken out loans for this school year. My question is, if I did choose to go, what happens with government student loans? I know that as soon as you are out of school 6 months you have to start paying them back, but I would go right back to school after I finished my 18 months, help?? Also, does anyone know about university scholarships (not BYU) how do schools typically handle such situations?
Thank you!
Hi so I’m a future sister missionary,
and a mission isn’t something I really was expecting to do…but I’m terrified that I will be condemned for not paying for my own mission. I had so much dental work I had to do and worked hard to pay off all my dental bills, and worked 2 jobs to pay my dental off, but my health was getting bad so I had to cut down on hours, and then I didn’t really have much left for my mission, but I have over 1,000 dollars saved and my mom and sister are planning on helping pay my mission, I leave at the end of this year, and I’m still trying hard with contributing money to my fund, but I don’t know I feel very guilty and awful:/ I guess what I really wanna know is….i keep getting a bad feeling and terrorizing thoughts about it, is it a sin to not pay for your mission? and is it possible to get sent home early if there’s not enough money contributed to you?
Future Sister Missionary, it sounds that you have worked very hard to save money to pay for your mission. Rest assured, you will not get sent home early from your mission if you don’t have enough money. While you should do everything in your power to save money to cover the costs of your mission, lack of finances should not stop a worthy individual from serving. Make an appointment to talk to your bishop and he will help you figure out a plan to pay for your mission. Have faith that the Lord will open the way and I know he will. Good luck and God bless.
Satan works really hard on people who are getting ready to serve, preparing to go to the temple, have just been baptized, ect. He’s probably trying to discourage you and put doubts in your mind. As for it being a sin, no it’s not; there’s a special missionary fund to help missionaries who can’t pay for their mission. I hope this helps 🙂
I am speaking from a different angle. Missionaries taught our family over 40 years ago in a different land, how grateful we are that they gave up things to serve our Lord. There are hundreds now who have the Gospel because they knocked on our door in Australia and my Dad let them in. Eleven missionaries have served thus far from our family and people we taught on our missions have served.
If the Lord calls you there will be a way. Do all you can and He will make up the rest as he does in every area of our life. A mission does not end, I am blessed continually because I was a missionary. Save, but of even greater worth is to strengthen your testimony and if you have that and learn to love the people as if they were your own people you will save generations into Eternity. Hard work, frustrating, sad, tiring…yes yes and yes but I had experiences that have helped me later as I sought the Lord and I gained insite as an experience from my mission came back to me.
i am so nervous, i converted to the church a little over 2 years ago and just now made my mind up to serve a mission. i have no financial beginning to serve a mission but i whole heartedly desire to serve a mission. my mom joined the church but immediately fell inactive (i dont live with her) and my dad wont help me finance a mission. i am the only active member in my family and i was the first in my family to be baptized (my mom came a year and a half after me). my dad is forcing me to put my income toward my Nursing degree at BYU-I because he is not willing to help me with that either. any advice to give me? i plan to leave in a little over a year? <3
Autumn, I applaud you for your desire to serve a mission. I know if you pray with faith that the Lord will inspire you with knowledge and ideas and things to do to get yourself prepared, financially and spiritually, to serve a mission. Perhaps this will mean dropping out of school for a while to save money for a mission. Or perhaps the Lord will open up another way. I would also recommend talking to your bishop and stake president. They may have ideas and inspiration on other things for you to do. Good luck and God bless you.
If a sister in her 20’s has finished her mission can she go again after that mission?
I’m not completely sure, but I doubt you could serve another mission in your 20s. You’d have to ask your bishop or stake president to know for sure, though. I suspect that once a woman has gone on a mission in her early 20s that they wouldn’t call her to go on another mission until later in life. Getting married and raising a family is a priority and one that couldn’t be done while you’re a full-time missionary. Once you reach the age of 40, though, if you are still single, then I think they might consider you for going on another mission.
For those looking for ways to help raise funds to cover expenses for mission trips, I encourage you to check out: https://onemissionfundraising.com/. It was created to help support causes just like this. I hope you find it to be a valuable resource. Thanks!
Okay so I am 16 and I can’t wait to go on a mission!! Is there anything I could be asking for now like for birthday or Christmas that I will need on my mission?
It’s great to hear that you are planning to serve a mission. I’m sure you’ll be great. I’ll have to put some more thought into your question, but certainly you could ask for some of the books I listed on this mission prep books page.
I summited my mission papers when i was 25 by November last year and now am 26year it always giving me concern, please what do i need todo right now and i have been waiting to receive my call letter, please your advice is needed.
Are there any programs that help pay for mission cost for people in South America that don’t have funds? I am asking for a sister that wants to go on a mission as a senior missionary, it has been her dream her whole life, she is 65 but funds are still short. I am trying to see if there is a way that her dreams can come true.
I live in the United States, but I have heard that outside the US there are programs like you describe. But you’d have to talk to your bishop and stake president to find out the details. Good luck and God bless.
When Heavenly Father knows we have pure intent, and when we turn to him, and we work hard to do all we can, he will bless us. Son #1 saved 50% mission costs. Near the end of his mission I saw the Lord’s hand in how he provided a way to pay for the other half. It was the most creative, unlikely, and improbable thing I NEVER would have considered, but I did it upon being prompted. I even told my other kids I did ‘t know why I was being told to do it, but we did it anyway.
Okay, I’ll tell you but don’t judge me. 🙂 Child #2 was doing independent study grade 11 and 12. I was prompted to bring my #3 & #4 home for homeschool too. #4 was NOT HAPPY about it. No big deal right? Except I worked part-time outside home…I was gone all a.m. until 1pm. (med insurance needed for spouse with major med concerns). Well,the kids all took turns watching #5 so they could all get their work done. This SAVED US at least $200/mo+ plus the kids grew closer. See, why I never would have done it if I had been told why, beforehand? Very humbling. We all sacrificed a lot. (#1 had many more baptisms than average for a U.S. mission) God is great. The church is true, the book is blue.
Hi i served a mission in Colorado springs mission, i have a friend who lied in his mission papers about the paiment, he will have to pay after his mission because they were not going to bring him home, is this going to afect him?
I am doing a project for a Spanish class where I am pretending to serve on a mission for two weeks in Tijuana, Mexico. I was wondering how much it would cost total for the first week if I were to live with the other missionaries.
I love this website! I am the only convert in my family at age 16. I am entering my senior year this year and turning 18 this fall. And I really want to go on a mission after my senior year of high school. I have prayed much about it and for sure about it as it’s a unique opportunity for me to devote two years to share the gospel with others 🙂 I am not entirely sure of when but the plan as of now is around July 2020, so then in 2 years I can start college at the normal time they start in the fall. That may change obviously but my main concern is paying for a mission. Before the pandemic, I had a part-time job at a grocery store that paid just a little over min wage here in Ohio, $8.50/hr. I had plans of working all this summer but then coronavirus came and my parents made me quit because some people in my family are in that high risk category so it was a necessary decision. I calculated it and I have to save $615 each month up to July 2020. And then after that, I would have no money in my bank account for college expenses, etc. My parents said they would help me with some college expenses so that isn’t too much of a concern because I can always get a job when I get back but the $615 a month scares me. I’ve been doing odd jobs around town but it’s not enough work to reach that monthly goal. I do anything from mowing lawns, cleaning windows, vacuuming, taking care of pets, etc. I met this months goal because I had a lot of change in a bucket that I counted and that helped lol. But I fear it’s not sustainable. However I am blessed that I can save most of that money. And I am very strict on my spending, I save close to 90% of the money I bring in, with tithing being the other 10%. I’m trying to get creative like maybe a plant sale in the spring or something like that lol. But I don’t think I will be getting any help from parents because they against the whole mission idea. And I don’t want to ask church members for money either because it makes me uncomfortable. I just really appreciate your website because this whole process in preparing spiritually and financially is new to me. Thank you! – Brendan (Ohio)
Brendan, I applaud you for your faith and desire to serve a mission. Keep striving to save money and you’ll get there. You may not be able to go on a mission right when you turn 18. But after you graduate from high school and can put more hours into working and saving money, it should only take a few months to save what you’ll need. The Lord will bless you for making these sacrifices to serve a mission so you can do that priesthood duty and invite others to come unto Christ.