As we continue our look at senior missionary service, it’s important to note that serving a mission will not be for everyone. However, there are many who can serve who might not think they can. Many people who have reached retirement age are still healthy and active. Using guidelines provided by Gordon B. Hinckley, let’s discuss who should and who should not attempt to serve a mission.
The first thing you should consider is your financial status. Do you have the means available to support yourself on a mission? If you are a single sister, your funding is subsidized through the Church, and you can serve anywhere in the world for only $400.00 a month, just like the young missionaries. For an older couple, you will be responsible for all your own needs. The Church does use reasonably priced housing for their missionaries, so you won’t be expected to pay an exorbitant rent, but you will be responsible for that rent, food, and any other needs. Perhaps you have a good retirement plan, or perhaps you have saved money for this purpose. It’s entirely appropriate for adult children to support their parents on missions, as well.
Second, you need to consider the ages and needs of your children. Have all your children reached an adult status and come to the point where they no longer need you? It’s not recommended that you stay home simply because a child is having a rough time – rough times are a part of life and that child might be blessed even more through your righteous missionary service than they would be if you stayed home. But is there a genuine need for you to remain at home? If so, now is not the time for you to serve. Perhaps later down the road.
Third, we will again mention health. Serving a mission is difficult. My mother, serving right now in the England, Leeds mission, writes that they are on the go morning until night, and she falls into bed exhausted. You will need your strength in order to serve. However, additional blessings of strength are given to missionaries. My mother could not ordinarily do the things she has been doing for the last month—in fact, her allergies have even been removed so she can enter into homes with pets, something she couldn’t do before leaving. Keep in mind that senior missionaries will not be expected to do everything that the younger missionaries can, but it’s still hard work.
If you are not able to knock doors, you can take a job in the office. You might serve a temple mission, or do family history. You might even serve your mission from home and help on a ward or stake level. There are so many ways you can serve that can be tailored to fit your health and financial status. If you have a desire to serve a mission, talk to your bishop and see what suggestions he might have for you.
Related Blogs:
The Need for Senior Missionaries