Speeches by Topic | Missionary Work

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints take seriously the commandment given by Jesus Christ to His disciples shortly before His ascension to “go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). Having experienced greater peace, purpose, and other temporal and spiritual blessings in their lives because of the gospel, members of the Church want to share their joy with others through missionary work. Missionary work takes on many different forms. Full-time missionaries serve for a period of eighteen months to two years in countries all over the world. They talk to people about the gospel, teach those who are interested in learning more, and support local branches of the Church. Many BYU students plan to serve or have served full-time missions. The experiences these returned missionaries bring back with them contribute to the spiritually strengthening atmosphere of the campus, its linguistic and cultural diversity, and to an increased skillset for students that can help them in employment and other endeavors. Many of these BYU devotionals help young men and women prepare for full-time missionary service or remember and retain the growth they experienced on their missions. Some older addresses were given to a combined audience of BYU students and missionaries in the Language Training Mission (now the Provo Missionary Training Center). However, missionary work is not limited to full-time missionaries. Young men and women who desire to serve God through missionary service but are unable to do so for health reasons are able to serve through service missions in community and Church organizations. Additionally, married couples may be called to preside over one of the Church’s many missions or may be called to serve as a senior couple. As many of these talks attest, any member of the Church can be a “member missionary” by setting an example of gospel living, reaching out in friendship and service to others, having the confidence to share their beliefs, and supporting new converts or less-active members. Those who do so are blessed with stronger testimonies, deeper friendships, and greater gospel understanding, regardless of whether their friends join the Church. By sharing these encouraging addresses and preparing students to be member missionaries wherever they live, we strive to inspire more Church members to love, serve, and share their faith with those around them, and to extend the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ to everyone.

Patrick Kearon - Presidency of the Seventy

Patrick Kearon | April 25, 2019

As you set goals and make plans for your life, working to relieve the suffering and lift the burdens of others should be present in your endeavors.

Arthur C. Brooks | April 25, 2019

If we are going to beat the problem of contempt, we’re going to need something more radical than civility—something that speaks to our hearts’ desire. We need love.

M. Russell Ballard | November 14, 2017

When we love God, we make and strive to keep our sacred covenants. I testify that living gospel commandments brings anyone untold blessings, allowing us to become our very best selves—exactly who God wants us to be.

Gary E. Arnoldson | May 14, 2013

Just like the candy M&M’s come in so many colors but all taste the same, missionary work looks different for every person but all leads to the same thing—bringing souls unto Christ.

Cecilia M. Peek | November 9, 2011

The creator actively remembers His creation. Closely linked to His remembrance of us is the loving attention associated with it. He not only remembers you; He cares deeply about where you are, what you are doing, who you are becoming, and what you are feeling.

M. Russell Ballard | August 13, 2009

If we want to be respected today for who we are, then we need to act confidently—secure in the knowledge of who we are and what we stand for—and not as if we have to apologize for our beliefs.

Quentin L. Cook | March 13, 2007

We all face problems and challenges. The rain falls on the just and the unjust, but those who accept the gospel and live righteously have a wonderful promise in D&C 59:23: “But learn that he who doeth the works of righteousness shall receive his reward, even peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come.”

R. J. Snow | September 6, 2005

The Lord’s firm assurance to the Prophet was laden with profound implications for the future of missionary work in the Church. Joseph must have wondered, even if he did not doubt, how the great prophecies and promises made to and through him were to be fulfilled if he were separated from the Church.

John H. Groberg | December 4, 2001

Having experienced lives and elements in chaos, I appreciate more than ever the power and goodness of God in bringing order out of chaos in organizing the earth; dividing light from dark, land from ocean; and bringing plant, animal, and finally human life to this earth. Let us follow Him: Learn the truth, make promises to live the truth, and do all in our power to keep those promises.

Mark L. Grover | August 7, 2001

Armed with the Spirit, we will do as the missionary does: strive to become an instrument of the Lord to do His work. With such preparation we hope and expect to be in the right place at the right time so that the Spirit of the Lord will inspire us and use us as His instrument.

Alton L. Wade | April 4, 2000

Most of you will have seen a picture depicting Christ instructing His apostles on the outskirts of Jerusalem prior to His ascension. The last words uttered by Christ on earth before He went to His heavenly home were: “And ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). The Lord also proclaimed, in…

R. Lanier Britsch, professor of History at Brigham Young University

R. Lanier Britsch | June 29, 1999

At the outset I want to make one thing clear. I love competition, and I like winning more than losing. My friends with whom I play racquetball know that I hate to miss a single shot (even though I miss many), much less lose a game or series. I am a quietly competitive kind of guy. But I have been perplexed by the idea that is current in our time…

Earl C. Tingey | November 1, 1998

In this prospective missionary fireside given in 1998, advice is given to university students to help them prepare to serve a mission.

Joe J. Christensen | October 20, 1998

The revolutionary and powerful truths revealed by the Prophet Joseph Smith can change the world—and, if we are true to them, each one of us.

Ben B. Banks | September 24, 1996

Ben B. Banks shares meaningful stories of missionary work and service and admonishes students to go forth and serve others in their path.

Gary Browning, professor of Russian language and literature at Brigham Young University

Gary Browning | November 2, 1993

In June of 1843 the Prophet Joseph Smith announced the appointment of apostle Orson Hyde and George J. Adams to serve as missionaries in “that vast empire” of Russia, with which, he continued, are connected “some of the most important things concerning the advancement and building up of the kingdom of God in the last days, which cannot be explained at this time” (HC 6:41). Although months of preparation followed this…

Dallin H. Oaks | March 12, 1991

God loves all of His children. As we are patient, we will have opportunities to serve the good people of China, and one day to share the gospel there.

F. Melvin Hammond | June 21, 1988

When you wonder whether one man or one woman really can make a difference, remember those in history who show that one person can change the world.

Gordon B. Hinckley - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Gordon B. Hinckley | January 31, 1987

Gordon B. Hinckley gives an inspiring history of the Church in the British Isles, from the Restoration to his own mission and on into the present.

Rex C. Reeve Sr. | February 25, 1986

In reference to the restoration of the gospel, the scriptures speak of the Lord bringing about his "strange act." We are a part of this continuing work.

M. Russell Ballard | November 8, 1984

Elder Ballard shares how the Church is growing on an international scene and urges members to follow the counsel of the prophet to share the gospel.

Robert L. Simpson | October 1, 1983

The invitation to follow the Savior is an invitation to open our hearts. If we learnt o love as He does, we will be blessed with success in our missionary efforts.

LeGrand Richards | October 20, 1981

The missionary experiences of Elder LeGrand Richards testify that the doctrines of the gospel of Jesus Christ speak for themselves.

Jack H. Goaslind | November 13, 1979

Missionary work allows us to reap the full blessings and joy of the gospel as we share that joy with others. It is at the heart of the Lord's plan.

Robert L. Simpson | September 25, 1979

Elder Simpson shares touching missionary experiences among people in China and the Soviet Bloc. He testifies that one day, the Lord will be able to send the gospel to all people and nations.

David B. Haight | November 5, 1978

The "uttermost part" of the earth is not only your campus, but your mission field. Prepare to help the gospel to reach all of God's children.

Bruce R. McConkie | August 18, 1978

Elder McConkie testifies that the revelation extending priesthood blessings to those of all nations and races is divine and that "all are alike unto God."

Robert L. Simpson | August 6, 1978

Missionary work is thriving, because the honest hearts of sincere missionaries are connecting with the honest hearts of sincere people.

L. Tom Perry | November 29, 1977

Technology enables incredible growth of the Church. God has appointed a law unto all things, and He has a hand in this continuing progress.

LeGrand Richards | October 11, 1977

Elder LeGrand Richards, author of A Marvelous Work and a Wonder, shares some reminiscences from his many years in missionary work for the Church.

Franklin D. Richards | September 25, 1977

Many are called upon to be modern-day pioneers. By asking "Golden Questions," members can support full-time missionaries as the Church grows and develops.

Carlos E. Asay | August 7, 1977

Through missionary work, we can participate with God in the saving of souls—a joyous obligation for those who love the Lord.

Gordon B. Hinckley | March 6, 1977

Generally speaking, the most miserable people I know are those obsessed with themselves; the happiest people I know are those who lose themselves in the service of others. I think there is a vast amount of that kind of misery among students. I hear much complaining—I hear complaints about the pressures of school as if it were a burden rather than an opportunity to partake of the knowledge of the earth.

Gordon B. Hinckley | April 8, 1976

As prophesied, missionary work is increasingly successful all over the world. We are all children of God, and cultural barriers break down with the Spirit.

Loren C. Dunn | March 11, 1975

Loren C. Dunn offers thoughts on missionary work, valiance, obedience, forgiveness, and testimony that inspire us to live more faithfully.

Mark E. Petersen | September 29, 1974

We Latter-day Saints must realize that the restoration of the gospel was a mighty drama, the first steps having been taken long before Joseph Smith. If God was going to restore the gospel in the last days, where would it take place and under what conditions?

J. Thomas Fyans | June 25, 1974

Preaching the gospel to an international, multilingual church is no easy task, but no unhallowed hand can stop the gospel from reaching Saints worldwide.

Ruth Funk, seventh Relief Society General President

Ruth H. Funk | May 28, 1974

President Oaks and you wonderful students and faculty, it is a great experience for me to be here with you today and with my dear husband and three of the four children that were mentioned in the introduction. This morning as I approached this beautiful campus, nestled at the base of these majestic mountains, and caught the grandeur of God’s creations, myriads of warm, shiny experiences in and around this…

Hartman Rector Jr. | March 3, 1974

As you let your light shine by exemplifying and sharing the gospel, you will be amazed by the lives you touch—and how those lives touch yours in return.

Paul H. Dunn | October 30, 1973

In some ways, life is like a sports game. You need to keep your eye on the prize, to play by the rules, and to help your teammates.

Hartman Rector Jr. | October 1, 1968

The call to serve the Lord may come in small, large, or unexpected ways. Prepare yourself now to answer the call however it comes.

Joseph Fielding Smith - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Joseph Fielding Smith | March 29, 1966

President Smith recounts some of his missionary experiences and counsels a group of future missionaries to be grateful to serve.

Sterling W. Sill | November 9, 1965

Section 4 of the Doctrine and Covenants is as relevant today as when it was given. In it are the requirements, blessings, and call to missionary work.

Theodore M. Burton | October 6, 1964

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

Preston Nibley | December 3, 1958

Preston Nibley narrates accomplishments of Joseph’s life and proves that he was a man of sincerity who never wearied of the task of spreading the gospel.

Richard L. Evans | May 14, 1958

In striving for worthiness and in our efforts as friends, brothers, and sisters, let us seek out repentant souls, or "human harvests," for Christ.

John Longden | April 30, 1957

Every Latter-day Saint has covenanted to be a missionary. We can share the gospel through our examples and our testimonies.

Harold B. Lee - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Harold B. Lee | October 12, 1954

One of the greatest ways we can share the gospel is by our example. Do we live what we believe? Do the fruits of our actions represent Christ?

Stephen L Richards | January 19, 1954

Stephen L Richards speaks on the rewards of missionary work. There are few things more gratifying than building the Lord's kingdom.

Stayner Richards | March 4, 1953

The text for this speech is unavailable. Please see our FAQ page for more information.

Ezra Taft Benson - Mormon Prophet and Apostle

Ezra Taft Benson | April 15, 1952

The growth of the Church is accelerating to fulfill prophecy and to bless God's children. This is a special time to be on the earth.

Ezra Taft Benson | January 31, 1950

Ezra Taft Benson teaches about the Church's unique message for the world, and how that message brings opposition, but also success and happiness.