“I Speak of Missionary Work”

For the complete text of President Thomas S. Monson’s talk go to lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/as-we-meet-together-again

In the Saturday morning session of October 2010 general conference, President Thomas S. Monson issued a call for more missionaries.

To the young men and sisters he said, “I admonish you to prepare for service as a missionary. Keep yourselves clean and pure and worthy to represent the Lord. Maintain your health and strength. Study the scriptures. Where such is available, participate in seminary or institute. Familiarize yourself with the missionary handbook Preach My Gospel.”

To mature brothers and sisters he said, “I urge you to prepare now for the day when you and your spouse might [serve a couples mission]. … There are few times in your lives when you will enjoy the sweet spirit and satisfaction that come from giving full-time service together in the work of the Master.”

Let us open our hearts to the words of a living prophet and follow him. The following photographs feature various facets of missionary work.

“Every worthy, able young man should prepare to serve a mission. Missionary service is a priesthood duty”–Thomas S. Monson

This missionary takes advantage of a few minutes to read his scriptures.

Photography by David Blanchard

Fijian elders tract in their homeland.

Photography by Welden C. Andersen

Above: Brazilian couple, Elder and Sister Lopes, were called to help collect and write the history of the Church in Brazil.

Photography by Laureni Ademar Fochetto

“Sisters … you also make a valuable contribution as missionaries, and we welcome your service”–Thomas S. Monson

Sister missionaries enjoy talking about the gospel with a local woman.

Photography by Matt Reier

Elders head out for an evening appointment during their day of missionary work.

Photography by Trisha Kunz, © Trisha Kunz

Sister missionaries help an elderly woman with her groceries.

Photography by Matt Reier

Missionaries in Houston, Texas, help clean up after Hurricane Ike in 2008.

Photography by Howard M. Collett

“To you mature brothers and sisters: we need many, many more senior couples”–Thomas S. Monson

The Rehses, who serve in the Frankfurt Germany Temple, study together—enjoying the “sweet spirit and satisfaction” that comes from serving together, as President Monson said.

Photography by Ruth Sipus

A senior couple at a spring in the DR Congo.

Photography by Farrell Barlow

Sister Grace Chan (right) helps a patron locate her Chinese ancestry at the Family History Library.

Photography by Christina Smith