Latter-day Saints hit record missionary levels

The milestone, confirmed by Church leadership on July 14, coincides with the opening of 55 new missions across the globe, bringing the total number of active missions to 505. Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, who chairs the Missionary Executive Council, attributed the growth to the commitment of a rising generation. President Dallin H. Oaks, speaking at a seminar for new mission leaders in June, described the current expansion as missionary work soaring to new heights. The force consists of a mix of young teaching and service missionaries alongside senior volunteers. Church officials anticipate that this increased presence will further accelerate their global efforts, with leadership emphasizing that the current period represents a unique opportunity for those engaged in the work.