Introduction

The Lord has said, “Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work” (Doctrine and Covenants 4:3). You have the privilege of dedicating this period of your life to serving the Lord as a service missionary. In this calling, you will have opportunities to give service that will bless other people, your own life, your family, the Church, and the organizations where you serve.

This handbook outlines the basic standards and guiding principles for your service. Refer to it regularly and review the standards and principles. Bring it to all interviews with your priesthood leader.

Note to Priesthood Leaders

For some service missionaries, it may be necessary to adjust some of the guidelines in this handbook. As directed by the Spirit, counsel with the missionary and his or her parents or guardians about which adjustments to make, if any. Record these in “My Modifications.”

You and the service missionary should also review, agree to, and sign “My Mission Commitment.”

In this handbook the terms stake president, bishop, stake, and ward apply also to district presidents, branch presidents, districts, and branches.