Caring for the Children of LDS Missionaries during Overseas Missions

In the Latter-day Saint Church of Jesus Christ (LDS Church), parents of minor children must not serve full-time missions. Historically, only mission presidents and their families serve missions with their children. This article explores how children are cared for when their parents embark on their missions.

Types of LDS Missionaries

LDS missionaries can be categorized into three types, each with distinct circumstances that affect their families.

Young Single Missionaries

The most numerous and visible LDS missionaries are young single individuals, between the ages of 18 and 25, who usually take a break from their university studies for 18 or 24 months. These missionaries must be single and childless, ensuring there are no childcare issues for the mission.

Retired Couples

Retired Latter-day Saints can serve missions if they have no dependent children at home. As they are typically empty-nesters, childcare is not a concern during their service.

Mission Leaders

Mission leaders, such as the mission president and his or her wife, may have children at home when called to serve. These families often integrate their children into their mission experiences, providing structured childcare and schooling. Depending on the task, some mission leaders might bring their children along, while others leave them with family or caretakers.

Childcare Solutions and Nurturing Family Relationships

When mission leaders take their children on missions, the church provides support and resources. For instance, the mission president and his or her family might be given a house where they can live, attend school, and integrate into the local community. However, should a mission president have children, the church ensures that their education does not suffer due to the mission.

Another aspect to consider is the involvement of the grandparents or extended family members. In cases where the children are older, such as above the age of 10, they might be taken care of by other family members while parents are on missions.

It is important to note that the church clearly emphasizes the importance of parenthood over missionary service. Prospective missionaries must make decisions that prioritize the well-being of their families first.

Relating to the LDS Community

While serving as a missionary is a significant commitment, the church ensures that all involved understand the value of family life. This commitment to family is evident in the flexibility and support provided to those in the most challenging situations.

For instance, mission presidents like my first missionary president, a professor on sabbatical from the University of Oklahoma, had two teenagers who attended an American school in Paris while on their mission. My second mission president, a retired diplomat with ten children, had all but the youngest in college when he served his mission with his parents and some of his other children staying in the United States.

These examples showcase the variety of scenarios and the nuanced approach the LDS Church takes in managing the families of missionaries.

Explore Further

If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a mission president, read more here. You can also explore the topic of Mormon missionaries and their relationships, and find interesting stories in the missionary community, such as unique interactions and experiences.