1987
Policies and Announcements
April 1987


“Policies and Announcements,” Ensign, Apr. 1987, 76

Policies and Announcements

The following letter from the First Presidency was to be read in sacrament meetings throughout the Church.

Missionary Farewells

We deeply appreciate the faithfulness of those who respond to the call to serve missions. It is appropriate to honor newly called full-time missionaries by asking them to speak in sacrament meetings before their departure. The bishopric is to plan and conduct such meetings and invite those who speak. Family members of the missionary may be invited to offer prayers, present musical numbers, or speak. Talks and music should be worshipful, faith promoting, and gospel oriented.

We are concerned that some inappropriate practices have arisen that detract from the sacred nature of the mission call or that create unnecessary expense. We urge members and local leaders to discontinue such practices as holding open houses for missionaries (except for family gatherings), sending out formal printed announcements or invitations, printing special programs for the sacrament meeting, or forming reception lines at the meetinghouse following the meeting.

We appreciate the devotion of missionaries and their families and their willingness to sacrifice much in serving the Lord.