Hi. I’m a member of the church, and I’m 20 years old. I was baptized when I was 15, but for personal reasons I went inactive. Afterwards, some missionaries came back to my house, and now I’m an active member once again. I’m a lot more mature now, and I can better appreciate how wonderful this gospel really is. Little by little, I’ve managed to introduce the church to my family again, and now we all go together. I’m very happy, but I feel like I should go on a mission, and my family doesn’t support me. I’m currently studying in the university, and they don’t want me to abandon my studies. Plus, we don’t have very much money. I prayed, and I really do feel like serving a mission is important, but I don’t want to disappoint my family. What should I do? Please help me. I feel so alone.
One Response to “I want to serve a mission, but my family doesn’t support me”
Leonardo Castro
2013-06-02 18:30:18
The Church's missionary program is one of its most recognized characteristics.
Hi sister. What a challenging situation! Though sisters don't have the same missionary responsibilities that the brothers do, if you've received a personal revelation that you should serve, I definitely encourage you to go! The church needs the help of wonderful sister missionaries like you!
Education is also important, of course. You shouldn't abandon your university studies, but it's often possible to put those studies on hold and to return to them after a mission is complete. I encourage you to talk to your university administrator.
It's best to pay for as much of your mission as possible, but the church does have a missionary fund to help if you have financial difficulties. You shouldn't let financial concerns stop you from serving a mission!
I hope that explaining these issues will help resolve your family's concerns. I encourage you also to chat with your bishop. Perhaps he can help explain things to your family as well! Best of luck to you, sister!
Education is also important, of course. You shouldn't abandon your university studies, but it's often possible to put those studies on hold and to return to them after a mission is complete. I encourage you to talk to your university administrator.
It's best to pay for as much of your mission as possible, but the church does have a missionary fund to help if you have financial difficulties. You shouldn't let financial concerns stop you from serving a mission!
I hope that explaining these issues will help resolve your family's concerns. I encourage you also to chat with your bishop. Perhaps he can help explain things to your family as well! Best of luck to you, sister!