Something very exciting is happening today. My mom is flying to England to serve a full-time mission for the Church. She’s a widow, so she’ll be teamed with another sister, and together they will seek out those who might be looking for the gospel. We’re so excited to send her off on this wonderful adventure and know that she’s going to have the time of her life. I’m also a little jealous – I’ve always wanted to go to England. She’s promised to take a lot of pictures for me.
Many seniors, when they reach the point where their children are self-sufficient and they are no longer working full-time jobs, question whether or not they should serve a mission. They wonder what all goes into the process. They wonder if it will be expensive, who will take care of their home while they are gone, and if their families will be all right while they go. They wonder how they will cope with homesickness, if their grandchildren will forget them, and if their health will permit them to serve. Some don’t want to knock on doors, and they wonder if they can ask for a different type of assignment.
I’m starting a new series here in LDS about serving senior missions. My mom is going to be writing home weekly, and has promised to keep me updated on the fun things she gets to do. I’ll be sharing her experiences with you, as well as telling you the things she did to prepare to serve. If you’ve ever wondered if serving a senior mission is right for you, hopefully this blog series will help you get the information you need to aid in your decision.
Russell M. Nelson said, “When we think of missionaries, we generally picture in our minds young men with shirts and ties and young women dressed modestly. But along with them are marvelous senior missionaries who have answered the pleadings of prophets and apostles for more missionary couples.
“I express gratitude for our senior missionaries. They are young in spirit, wise, and willing to work. They even tolerate remarks from their fun-filled children who might change President Spencer W. Kimball’s plea “Lengthen your stride” to “Hasten your shuffle.” These dear members are willing to serve and strengthen the lives of others. Even if these seniors don’t know the local language, their accomplishments are great and their spirit of sacrifice is precious.”
Senior missionaries are invaluable to the Lord’s plan for His children. I hope you’ll be able to join me for this series on senior missionaries and how they can change the lives of those they teach.
Related Blogs:
Serving a Mission as a Senior Couple
Remember the Missionaries at Christmas