There are approximately 50,000 young men and women serving as missionaries throughout the world for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  These young men and women are typically 19 to 26 years old and have taken a break from their studies, careers and personal lives to serve the Lord.

During the 18 or 24 months that they serve, Mormon missionaries are expected to live very high standards.  Missionaries are official representatives of the Church–how they act reflects upon the Mormon Church. 

Therefore, what are some examples of the common rules for Mormon missionaries?

• Arise at 6:30 a.m. and go to bed at 10:30 p.m.
• Stay with your assigned companion (another missionary)
• Do not date or be alone with members of the opposite sex
• Do not participate in certain dangerous activities (e.g., water sports, winter sports, motorcycling)
• Do not watch television or use the Internet (except to write e-mails to family members)

There are additional guidelines given to Mormon missionaries similar to those above.  While some people may look at these rules and think, “Why is that rule necessary?”, it is important to remember why Mormons serve missions. 

When Mormon young men and women choose to serve missions, it is a choice to dedicate the next 18-24 months in full-time service to help others learn more about Jesus Christ and His gospel.  Therefore, the rules are designed to help missionaries keep their focus and spend their time wisely.  Many of the rules are also established for the safety of the Mormon missionaries who work all across the world, many in areas that have dangers associated with them.

Because some people are more familiar with missionaries than everyday members of the Mormon Church, a common misconception is that all Mormon members follow these same rules.  Most of these rules are only for Mormon missionaries (e.g., no TV) and do not apply to other members of the Church.