Full Breakdown
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Lowers Missionary Age for Women to 18
11/21/2025, 8:04:04 PM
Announcement of Age Change
On November 21, 2025, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced that young women can now serve full-time missions starting at age 18, following their high school graduation or equivalent. This decision was made by the Church's First Presidency, which includes President Dallin H. Oaks and his counselors, President Henry B. Eyring and President D. Todd Christofferson. The Church emphasized that while missionary service is a priesthood responsibility for young men, it remains optional for young women.
Historical Context
Historically, the minimum age for young women to serve missions was 21, a practice that remained until 2012 when then-President Thomas S. Monson announced a reduction to 19. The recent change marks the first adjustment in missionary age for women in 13 years. The Church has seen a significant increase in the number of missionaries since the last age change, with current numbers exceeding 80,000 full-time missionaries serving worldwide.
Implications of the Change
The Church does not anticipate a large influx of sister missionaries due to this change, advising young women to seek personal revelation regarding their decision to serve. The announcement coincides with plans to create 55 new missions by July 1, 2026, which will bring the total number of missions to 506, the highest in the Church's history. This expansion reflects the Church's ongoing commitment to missionary work and outreach.
Official Statements
The First Presidency stated, “We recognize that for those young women who desire to serve a full-time mission, the choice of age to begin service will not be the same for everyone. We extend our love to the youth of the Church and commend them for their faithfulness.” This sentiment underscores the Church's acknowledgment of individual circumstances and the voluntary nature of missionary service for women.
Criticism & Opposition
While the announcement has been largely well-received, some critics argue that the Church's emphasis on missionary service for young men as a priesthood duty creates a disparity in expectations between genders. This perspective highlights ongoing discussions about gender roles within the Church and the implications of missionary service.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The First Presidency is pleased to announce that effective immediately, young women who choose to serve a full-time mission may begin their service at age 18 following graduation from high school or its equivalent.” — First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
- “It is inspiring to see the number of young church members who continue to answer the call to share the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ around the world,” — President Dallin H. Oaks
This change in policy reflects the Church's evolving approach to missionary work and its recognition of the contributions of young women in this capacity.
