The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced new opportunities for single senior members interested in serving as full-time missionaries. As of November 1, 2024, single men over the age of 40, previously ineligible for full-time missions, may now serve in various roles within the Church. Single sisters over 40 will also find a wider range of missionary assignments available to them.
The expansion of missionary service aligns with the Church’s goal of tapping into the gifts, skills, and life experiences of its members worldwide. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles shared that this initiative is intended to enrich Church service by welcoming those with unique backgrounds and expertise into missionary work. “We are grateful for the many members who offer their time and abilities to serve,” they expressed. “These expanded roles allow more people to make meaningful contributions.”
Single senior elders will now be eligible for assignments that draw upon their professional and life experiences, including roles in area and mission offices, family history, medical, legal, and other specific fields. Unlike traditional young missionary assignments, single senior elders and sisters will serve individually rather than in companionships. Mission lengths are flexible, allowing service for six, 12, 18, or 23 months.
Single senior sisters over 40 have already been serving in various capacities, but their potential assignments have now broadened. In addition to roles in family history, mission medical advisement, and local Church unit support, they may now serve in visitors’ centers, historic sites, employment centers, and additional mission office roles. This expansion is intended to harness the unique strengths of single senior sisters, helping them contribute in areas where their backgrounds may be especially valuable.
Prospective missionaries must meet health and financial criteria, as senior missionaries typically serve 40 hours or more per week and live away from home. Members can consult their local bishops, who use the Missionary Recommendation System to submit full-time missionary applications. To learn more about these expanded opportunities for single senior missionaries, visit The Church’s official newsroom article for additional details.
As members prepare to answer this call, they are invited to reflect on how they might use their experiences in a new chapter of service. “The Lord needs all hands in His work,” leaders said. “Whether you are young, old, single, or married, there is a place for you.”
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Jill Holmes
Guest Author
Nick Galieti
