Record Number of LDS Missionaries Reaches 90,000 Worldwide

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has officially reached a historic milestone, with the number of full-time missionaries now surpassing 90,000 worldwide. This record-breaking figure, confirmed in September 2026, marks a significant moment in the history of the faith, eclipsing previous highs and demonstrating the profound commitment of a new generation of disciples. Central to this growth is a remarkable increase in the number of sister missionaries, with over 30,000 women now serving in the field, a development largely attributed to the recent policy change allowing young women to begin their missionary service at age 18. This surge in participation is a testament to the faith and devotion of the rising generation, as they seek to share the gospel of Jesus Christ across more than 500 missions globally. As we reflect on these numbers, we are reminded of the power of Faithful Service & Sacrifice in building the kingdom of God. President Dallin H. Oaks, speaking to new mission leaders, captured the spirit of this movement when he noted, Missionary work is soaring to new heights. What a group to lead. This sentiment is echoed by Elder Ronald A. Rasband, who chairs the Missionary Executive Council, describing the milestone as a reflection of the faith and devotion of a rising generation of disciples of Jesus Christ. The impact of this missionary force is felt not only in the numbers but in the individual lives touched by their message. Many young people today express that their fundamental reason for serving is their love for Jesus Christ and their desire to join Him in His work. This Spiritual Conversion is the heartbeat of the missionary program. One sister missionary, reflecting on her decision to serve, shared her testimony of the guidance she received: I felt a distinct impression that my time to serve was now. It was not just about the age requirement change, but a personal invitation from the Lord to dedicate this season of my life to Him. I have seen miracles in the eyes of those we teach, and my own testimony has been strengthened beyond measure as I have witnessed the Holy Ghost / Guidance and Direction in our daily interactions. Such accounts are common among those serving in the field, where the Power of Prayer remains a constant source of strength. The growth is not limited to numbers; it is a reflection of increased receptivity and a desire among youth to engage in meaningful service. Whether serving as teaching missionaries or in service roles, these young men and women are part of a global effort to invite others to come unto Christ. As the Church continues to expand its infrastructure, including the opening of 55 new missions earlier this year, the opportunities for service continue to grow. For those interested in the historical context of such growth, our PIONEER_MIRACLES section offers a look at how early missionaries laid the foundation for the work we see today. The current record is a continuation of that legacy, proving that the spirit of missionary work remains as vibrant as ever. As we look toward the future, the dedication of these 90,000 missionaries serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the ongoing Restoration of Memory and truth in our modern world. We invite our readers to explore more TESTIMONIES from those who have served and to continue supporting these young disciples through their prayers and encouragement.