One Response to “Why would a missionary be sent home early?”
Gabriel Ramos
2015-08-30 11:27:26
The Church’s missionary program is one of its most recognized characteristics.
Hi Alexa. I don't know the exact numbers, but I imagine that health problems are the main reason missionaries come home early. Missionaries in this category often start their missions knowing that it will be uniquely difficult for them, but they go anyway because they love Christ and His gospel. It's not their fault that they suffer from poor health. We should honor their willingness to serve. These kinds of folks are often among the most dedicated members of the church.
Occasionally, a missionary is sent home early because he or she committed a serious sin. This is also a tragedy, and we should support these folks too. Through repentance, they can recover their previous spirituality. They usually know they did something wrong, so it's not useful for others to highlight their sins or judge them harshly. Most of them already want to repent, and we should support them in their desire to change.
Occasionally, a missionary is sent home early because he or she committed a serious sin. This is also a tragedy, and we should support these folks too. Through repentance, they can recover their previous spirituality. They usually know they did something wrong, so it's not useful for others to highlight their sins or judge them harshly. Most of them already want to repent, and we should support them in their desire to change.
I hope this answer helps.