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Fill Out Your Missionary Recommendation Checklist Form

The Missionary Recommendation Checklist form is a crucial document used to gather information about prospective missionaries within certain religious organizations. It ensures that candidates meet the necessary qualifications and readiness to serve a mission. Completing this checklist accurately helps facilitate the missionary application process.

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The Missionary Recommendation Checklist form plays a crucial role in the process of selecting candidates for full-time missionary service. This form guides bishops and branch presidents through the evaluation of potential missionaries, ensuring that all necessary qualifications and requirements are meticulously addressed. Candidates must provide detailed personal information, including their availability dates, citizenship status, and familial background. Interviews are essential, as they help leaders assess the candidates' understanding of their faith and commitment to serving others. Special attention should be given to any emotional, behavioral, or medical considerations that could impact a candidate's mission experience. The checklist also emphasizes the importance of financial transparency, requiring confirmations that families have committed support before seeking additional funds. Finally, the inclusion of sections for leader comments offers valuable insights into the candidate's qualifications, personality, and readiness to undertake this sacred responsibility. Completing the checklist thoroughly is not just a formality; it is an essential step that helps ensure each candidate is spiritually and emotionally prepared for the challenges of missionary work.

Missionary Recommendation Checklist Example

Checklist for Full-Time Missionary Recommendation

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

To the Bishop or Branch President

Review the Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 1: Stake Presidencies and Bishoprics, and the First Presidency letters of 12 December 2000 and 11 December 2002 for information on qualifications, terms of service, requirements for special clearance, and other instructions on calling missionaries.

The missionary recommendation packet for young missionaries should be submitted to the Missionary Department not more than 90 days before the candidate's availability date. Couples' packets may be submitted up to five months in advance. The date given in the “Date available to serve” field should not be earlier than the birthday when the missionary reaches the minimum age for service. Normally about two to four months are allowed between the issuing of the call and the beginning of the mission.

If the candidate has been living away from home, the home bishop or branch president and the away-from-home bishop or branch president must confer regarding worthiness and the procedures for submitting the recommendation forms (see the Church Handbook of Instructions, Book 1).

Conduct a thorough, searching interview with the candidate to determine

worthiness, qualifications, and the individual's physical and emotional capability to serve. Confirm that the candidate has an understanding and testimony of the Savior and His Atonement, the Restoration and Joseph Smith' role in it, the Book of Mormon (having read it), and the singular privilege of serving the Savior as a missionary.

Give the candidate the missionary recommendation packet.

Review these forms after the candidate completes them. Ensure that any serious concerns are resolved, including completion of recommended tests or treatment, before the forms are submitted. Give special attention to emotional, behavioral, and learning problems. If the candidate is on medication for a chronic condition, encourage him or her to continue the medication throughout the mission.

Conduct a final interview with the candidate before submitting the forms. Make sure that all requested information has been provided, and fill in the Unit Information for Missionary Candidate form including the candidate's record number. Discuss with the candidate important information requested on the forms, such as visa or citizenship documentation and information about special medical problems, diets, or medications.

Ensure that after the contribution from the missionary and family, the ward or branch missionary fund can meet the financial obligation for the missionary.

For countries where supplemental financial support from the General Missionary Fund is authorized: If the candidate cannot be supported fully from personal, family, ward or branch, or stake or district funds, complete a Request for Supplemental Financial Assistance for Full-Time Missionary form (31964), and send it to the area office with the missionary recommendation packet. Do not request assistance from the General Missionary Fund until the missionary, the family, and the ward or branch and stake or district have committed themselves to provide all the financial support they can.

Ensure that family members and others contributing to the Church's missionary funds are aware that contributions belong to the Church for use in its discretion to further missionary work and are not refundable even if the missionary is unable to complete the full term of his or her mission.

On the Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions form, provide pertinent information on the candidate' qualifications and abilities. Add comments on the candidate' experience, leadership capability, potential, interests, talents, or limitations that should be considered in determining the mission assignment.

The picture that accompanies the recommendation form should be current and should show the candidate dressed and groomed according to missionary standards.

Sign the Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions form and send all required forms to the stake president. When you sign this form, you are stating that in your opinion this individual is worthy to serve a mission. You are also confirming that you have reviewed the medical information and conducted a thorough personal interview, which has convinced you that this person is physically and emotionally able to serve a mission.

Do not recommend members who are in debt and have not made definite arrangements to meet their financial obligations.

To the Stake or Mission President

Conduct a thorough, searching interview. Confirm that the candidate has an understanding and testimony of the Savior and His Atonement, the Restoration and Joseph Smith's role in it, the Book of Mormon (having read it), and the singular privilege of serving the Savior as a missionary.

Add your comments on the Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions form.

Make sure that all concerns have been resolved or adequately explained either on the Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions form or, if confidential, in a separate letter.

Review all forms for accuracy and completeness.

Sign the Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions form, and send all forms to the Missionary Department (at the address above). When you sign this form, you are stating that in your opinion this individual is worthy to serve a mission. You are also confirming that you have reviewed the medical information and conducted a thorough personal interview, which has convinced you that this person is physically and emotionally able to serve a mission.

Missionary Recommendation

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

Full legal name (first)	(middle)	(last)	(suffix)		Date available to
					serve

Home street address

City			State or province	Postal code

Country			District (if any)		Airport

Home phone (include area code)			E-mail address (optional)

Other states, provinces, or countries where you have lived recently (or for extended periods)

Address where your call should be sent, if different from home address

City	State or province	Postal code

Country	District (if any)

Phone (include area code)	Date of birth	Gender
		Female	Male

Attach with tape one (1) photograph of the

missionary candidate dressed and groomed according to missionary standards.

Confirmation date		Current marital status				Have you ever been
			Single		Married	Widowed	Divorced

Have ever been arrested (If yes to any of these, explain, including date of arrest, charge, and resolution.)
Yes	No

Have ever had a police record
Yes	No

Have ever been convicted of a crime
Yes	No

Citizenship Information

Citizenship at birth				Place of birth (city, state, or			Birth	Current country of citizenship			If dual citizenship, indicate second
				province)			country				country of citizenship.

You have an official birth certificate				Currently a documented citizen of your resident country (If no, indicate your current status in your country of residence.)
Yes	No			Yes	No

Citizenship status imposes restrictions on traveling outside				Nationalities of ancestors
the country where you live
Yes	No

You have a current passport				Expiration date:					Name (exactly as it appears on the passport)
Yes	No

Passport Number				Country of Issue

Father's Information

Father's full name				Father is a member					Father is deceased
				Yes	No				Yes	No

Father's birthplace (city, state, or province)				Father's occupation

Father's street address, if different from your home address

City				State or province					Postal code

Country				District (if any)

Home phone (include area code)

E-mail address (optional)

Check here if you do NOT want your father to be contacted at all.

Missionary Recommendation

Your full legal name (first)

(middle)

(last)

(suffix)

Age

Gender

Female Male

Mother's Information

Mother's full name					Mother is a member		Mother is deceased
					Yes	No	Yes	No

Mother's birthplace (city, state, or province)					Mother's occupation

Mother's street address, if different from your home address

City					State or province		Postal code

Country					District (if any)

Home phone (include area code)					E-mail address (optional)		Check here if you do NOT want your mother to be
							contacted at all.

Residence and Caregiver Information

You live with:
Both parents		Mother only	Father only	Other (name)			(relationship)
Both parents		Mother only	Father only	Other (name)

If you do not live with both parents, please explain why.

Address of caregiver, if other than parents and different from home address

City					Postal code		Country

State or province					District (if any)

Home phone (include area code)					E-mail address (optional)		Check here if you do NOT want this person to be
							contacted at all.

Other Family Members Who Have Served or Are Serving Missions

Father has served a mission (If yes, give name of mission.)					Mother has served a mission (If yes, give name of mission.)		Grandparents have served missions (If yes, give name of
Yes	No				Yes	No	missions.)
Yes	No				Yes	No
							Yes	No

Relationship and location of immediate family members currently serving missions (parents, brother, sister, grandparents)

Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

Missionary candidate's name (first)

(middle)

(last)

(suffix)

Age

Gender

Female Male

Final Evaluation (Items to be reviewed by priesthood leaders)

Check the following when they are complete:

I have reviewed all forms completed by the candidate.

I have discussed and resolved my concerns, if any, with the candidate.

The candidate is worthy to hold a temple recommend.

The candidate is willing to serve where called and in any assignment that might be given.

Has the candidate lived outside your ward for any significant time in the last year? (School, Military, Employment, etc.)

If yes, enter the date on which you conferred with the candidate's former bishop.

Bishop's or Branch President's Recommendation Provide information on the qualifications and abilities of the missionary candidate. Comment on the experience, leadership capability, potential, interests, talents, or limitations of the candidate that should be considered in determining the mission assignment. Confidential comments should be discussed in a separate letter.

Please evaluate the missionary candidate's leadership capability.

Low	1	2	3	4	5	High
Low						High

Bishop or Branch President's Confidential Comments

When you sign this form, you are stating that in your opinion this individual has a testimony of the gospel and is worthy and willing to serve a mission wherever called. You are also confirming that you have reviewed the medical information and conducted a thorough personal interview, which has convinced you that this person is physically and emotionally able to serve a mission.

Bishop or branch president's signature	Telephone (include area code)	Date submitted

Print name	Unit name	Unit number

Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

Missionary candidate's name (first)

(middle)

(last)

(suffix)

Check the following when they are complete:

I have reviewed all forms completed by the candidate.

I have discussed and resolved my concerns, if any, with the candidate.

The candidate is worthy to hold a temple recommend.

The candidate is willing to serve where called and in any assignment that might be given.

Age

Gender

Female Male

Stake or Mission President's Recommendation Provide information on the qualifications and abilities of the missionary candidate. Comment on the experience, leadership capability, potential, interests, talents, or limitations of the candidate that should be considered in determining the mission assignment. Confidential comments should be discussed in a separate letter.

Stake or Mission President's Confidential Comments

Stake or mission president's signature	Telephone (include Area Code)	Date submitted

Print name	Unit name	Unit number

If English is not the candidate's native language, have a native English speaker evaluate his or her English-speaking ability. The evaluators should use the following questions to interview the candidate and check the appropriate ranking, paying particular attention to the candidate' ability to use correct verb tenses, to answer appropriately, and to use sentences.

What did you do to prepare for your mission? What will you do on your mission to ensure that you are successful? Tell me about your favorite scripture. Key: Nonfunctional — Does not respond to questions.

Partially Functional — Has difficulty resonding to questions; does not use complete sentences or appropriate verb tense. Functional — Responds appropriately to questions; uses complete sentences; generally uses proper verb tense.

Fluent — Understands and speaks with near-native ability; mostly uses proper verb tenses; responds confidently.

0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7
No English	Nonfunctional		Partially Functional		Functional		Fluent

Area Medical Advisor Review

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

Missionary candidate's name (first)

(middle)

(last)

(suffix)

Age

Gender

Female Male

Area Medical Advisor Review Based on a review of the missionary candidate's history, the physician's health evaluation, and a review of laboratory findings, indicate the candidate's ability to function at various levels of activity as a missionary.

Level A—No limitation	Level B—Slight limitation	Level C—Moderate limitation	Level D—Marked limitation	Level E—Not appropriate
No limitation of activity in lifting,	Slight limitation of activity; slight	Moderate limitation of activity;	Marked limitation of activity or has	Conditions exist for which corrective
carrying, walking 6 or more	decrease of function or stamina,	moderate decrease of function or	special requirements, such as specific	action has not been or cannot be
miles per day, or spending 12 to	such as problems with walking	stamina; requires limited walking	climate, use of wheelchair, frequent	taken, such as severe chronic pain,
16 hours per day in missionary	(limited to 3-6 miles per day) or with	(0-3 miles per day) or sedentary	rest periods, special medical needs, or	loss of stamina, or recurring
activity.	extensive standing.	work.	medical visits.	conditions.

Selected Limitations

Additional Comments

Education and Service of Missionary Candidate

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

Your full legal name (first)

(middle)

(last)

(suffix)

Age

Gender

Female

Male

Language Information

Number of years studied in the last 5 years

Language

Native speaker

(Complete this column for languages you do

Average grade

NOT speak natively.)

Yes

Language you want your call letter to be printed in

Indicate how interested you are in learning a language.

Very interested

Moderately interested

Somewhat interested

Not interested

Rate how successful you feel you would be in learning a language for your mission.

Very successful

Moderately successful

Somewhat successful

Not very successful

Education and Work Experience

Highest education level achieved

Graduated from high school

Rate your performance at schoolwork

Yes

Extremely good

Very good

Good

Average

Not very good

Poor

Years in seminary

Graduated from seminary

Yes

Post-secondary education (such as bachelor's degree)

Number of years

Degree

Major

School

Post-graduate education (such as master's degree, doctorate, and so on)

Number of years

Degree

Major

School

Extracurricular activities, special skills, hobbies, and special accomplishments

Previous Church callings and leadership experience

Work experience outside the home (Include number of years in each job.)

Office experience
General bookkeeping	Word processing	WPM	Computers	Details

Education and Service of Missionary Candidate

Your full legal name (first)

(middle)

(last)

(suffix)

Age

Gender

Female Male

Other Information

Driver's license

Yes No

Expiration date

Country	State or province

License has been suspended If yes, explain. (Give date and reason for suspension.) Yes No

Military Information

Current or previous military experience		Name of military organization
Yes	No

Member of military reserve unit (U.S. only)		Name of reserve organization
Yes	No

Reserve service number		Name of commanding officer

Unit mailing address

City

State or province

Postal code

Source of Funds Indicate how much money (in your local currency) will be contributed per month in support of your mission from the sources below. Enter single combined amount for a couple in “Self.”

Local currency

Self

Family

Ward or branch

Other

Total

Candidate Comments Explain any special circumstances or situations that the Brethren should consider when making your mission call.

Comments

Unit Information for Missionary Candidate

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

Missionary candidate's record number (provided by ward or branch)

Unit Information Completed by bishop or branch president

Home ward or branch		Unit number	Home stake or mission

Name of home bishop or branch president			Name of home stake or mission president

Mailing address (including country)			Mailing address (including country)

Home phone (area code)	Work phone (area code)	Cell phone (area code)	Home phone (area code)	Work phone (area code)	Cell phone (area code)

E-mail address		Fax	E-mail address		Fax

Unit Information for Unit Submitting Recommendation If other than home unit

Ward or branch		Unit number	Stake or mission

Name of bishop or branch president			Name of stake or mission president

Mailing address (including country)			Mailing address (including country)

Home phone (area code)	Work phone (area code)	Cell phone (area code)	Home phone (area code)	Work phone (area code)	Cell phone (area code)

E-mail address		Fax	E-mail address		Fax

Instructions for Missionary Candidate

MISSIONARY DEPARTMENT

50 E NORTH TEMPLE ST RM 345 W SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150-5400

1. Complete all information on the Missionary Recommendation form.		Have the physician complete the Physician's Health Evaluation of
Type if possible, or print neatly in black ink. Write dates in day, month,		Missionary Candidate form and mail it and the Personal Health History
year format (15 Dec 2001).		of Missionary Candidate form to your bishop or branch president.
2. Complete the Education and Service of Missionary Candidate form. Fill		Where mail is unreliable, personally retrieve the forms.

out the Personal Health History of Missionary Candidate form	7.	Begin the hepatitis A and B immunizations and boosters for diphtheria,
completely, honestly, and accurately before your medical examination.		tetanus, measles, and mumps immediately. You will receive additional
3. Sign the “Authorization to Release Information” section on the		immunization information with your mission call.

Physician's Health Evaluation of Missionary Candidate form.	8.	Obtain a thorough dental examination. Begin early. Sign the
4. If you have had any major illness, major operation, major injury,		“Authorization to Release Information” section on the Dental Evaluation
		for Missionary Candidate form, and give the form to the dentist along
prolonged treatment, or hospitalization, obtain a statement from the
		with a stamped envelope addressed to your bishop or branch
professional who treated you, if possible, to explain the nature of the		with a stamped envelope addressed to your bishop or branch
		president. Have the dentist fill out the form and mail it to your bishop or
problem and its current status. It is important that you provide complete
		branch president. Where mail is unreliable, personally retrieve the
information about your physical condition. For example, it is not enough
		forms.
to say that you had a knee injury; you must also state which knee was		forms.

injured and explain whether there are any persistent problems with the	9.	Have all dental work, including orthodontic work, completed before
knee.		submitting the missionary recommendation packet to your bishop or
5. The Physician's Health Evaluation of Missionary Candidate form must		branch president.

be signed by a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO). If the	10.	You are expected to be physically and emotionally capable of working
examination is done by a physician assistant (PA) or nurse practitioner		several hours a day. For young missionaries, this means walking
(NP), the supervising physician must verify the findings and review and		several miles a day six days a week. If there are reasons why this
countersign the form. An examination by any other practitioner is not		might not be possible, please discuss them with your bishop or branch
acceptable.		president.
6. Give the following forms to the physician along with a stamped envelope	11.	Before entering the MTC, correct any problems such as plantar warts,
addressed to your bishop or branch president:		flat feet, chronic headaches, inguinal hernias, and so on. Stabilize and
The completed Personal Health History of Missionary Candidate		understand the treatment for chronic problems such as asthma,
		diabetes, seizures, emotional disorders, irritable bowel, endometriosis,
form.
form.		and so on.
The Instructions for Physicians Evaluating Missionary Candidates.		and so on.

The Physician's Health Evaluation of Missionary Candidate form.	12.	If you are taking prescribed medication for any chronic problem,
		medical or emotional, do not stop taking it unless your physician

		advises you to do so. Please list on the Personal Health History of
		Missionary Candidate form all medications you are currently taking.
	13.	Complete all appropriate sections of the Personal Insurance
		Information of Missionary Candidate form.

Instructions for Parents of Young Missionaries	5. Pay particular attention to item 11 above. This will help avoid unnecessary
1. Review the completed forms, and add any pertinent information.	problems and expenses in the MTC or the mission field.

2. Please make sure that the instructions under item 3 above are carried out	6. If you have private insurance coverage for your son or daughter, do not
	discontinue it. Please note it on the Personal Insurance Information of
and that clarifying statements are submitted with the Personal Health
	Missionary Candidate form with pertinent data.
History of Missionary Candidate form. Failure to do so may delay the	Missionary Candidate form with pertinent data.

mission call unnecessarily.	7. During the mission, a missionary’s family must bear the costs of caring for
	preexisting medical conditions. A preexisting condition is any chronic,

3. Encourage your son or daughter to continue to take any prescribedcongenital, or medical condition with signs or symptoms, a diagnosis, or

medications. Problems may arise when missionary candidates stop taking treatment within two years before the missionary enters the mission field, medication because they believe that being on medication might affect the

missionary assignment they receive.

regardless of whether the symptoms are present when the missionary enters the field.

4. Please make sure your son or daughter gets thorough medical and dental All donations to the Church's missionary funds become the property of the examinations. The Church is greatly concerned about the health and safety

of the missionaries. The purpose of a careful medical evaluation is to

Church to be used at the Church' sole discretion in its missionary programs. Contributions are not refundable, including any advance contributions, if the

ensure that missionaries can handle the rigors of missionary work and missionary is unable to complete the full term of the mission. receive assignments in which they can succeed. Missionaries are exposed

to many physical, environmental, social, and emotional stresses, often in areas where there is minimal medical care. It is unfortunate when a missionary must return home early because of problems that could have been avoided or stabilized before the mission.

Get Missionary Recommendation Checklist PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name	Fact Details
Purpose	The Missionary Recommendation Checklist is designed to evaluate the suitability of potential missionaries before submitting their applications.
Submission Timeline	The missionary recommendation packet should typically be submitted no more than 90 days prior to the candidate's availability date, while couples may submit their packets up to five months in advance.
Candidate Age	The date listed as "available to serve" cannot be earlier than the missionary's birthday that marks the minimum age for service.
Mental and Physical Evaluation	A thorough evaluation of the candidate's emotional and physical readiness is crucial. This includes exploring any ongoing medication for chronic conditions.
Financial Requirements	Before submitting the forms, ensure the ward or branch missionary fund can support the missionary financially through personal and family contributions.
Pertinent Interviews	The process includes multiple interviews, first by the bishop or branch president, followed by a final interview to confirm completion of all forms and any necessary discussions.
Documentation	Candidates must provide key documents, such as proof of citizenship and a current passport, along with a form that explains any special medical conditions.
Contribution Clarity	It is important to clarify that contributions to the missionary fund belong to the Church and are non-refundable, regardless of whether the missionary completes their mission.
Confirmation of Worthiness	Both the bishop and the stake or mission president must sign the recommendation forms, confirming they believe the candidate is worthy to serve.
Confidentiality	Any confidential concerns regarding a candidate must be documented in a separate letter to ensure privacy while still addressing any necessary issues.

Guidelines on Utilizing Missionary Recommendation Checklist

Filling out the Missionary Recommendation Checklist form requires careful attention to detail and thorough information about the missionary candidate. Each section must be completed accurately and thoughtfully to ensure a smooth submission. Once the form is filled out, it will be reviewed by the respective leaders for the final recommendation process.

Begin by entering the candidate's full legal name, including first, middle, last, and suffix.
Specify the date the candidate is available to serve.
Fill out the home street address, city, state or province, postal code, and country.
Provide the district (if applicable) and the home phone number, including the area code.
Optionally, include the candidate's email address.
List any other states, provinces, or countries where the candidate has lived recently or for extended periods.
If the mailing address for the call is different from the home address, fill in the appropriate fields for that address.
Document the candidate's date of birth and select their gender.
Attach a current photograph of the candidate dressed and groomed according to missionary standards using tape.
Indicate the confirmation date of the candidate.
State the current marital status of the candidate: single, married, widowed, or divorced.
Answer questions concerning any previous arrests or police records, if applicable. Provide explanations if necessary.
Detail the candidate's citizenship information, including citizenship at birth and current country. Indicate any dual citizenships.
Update whether the candidate has a current passport, including the expiration date, passport number, and country of issue.
Provide detailed information about the candidate's parents, including full names, member status, and contact information.
Note with whom the candidate lives, whether both parents, only mother, only father, or another individual. If applicable, explain why they do not live with both parents.
Fill in any other relevant family information, such as family members who have served missions.
Complete the Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions form by checking off the completion of required items for review.
Provide pertinent comments on the candidate's qualifications and abilities, including any confidential notes in a separate letter if needed.
Have the bishop or branch president sign the form, confirming their recommendation and the candidate’s readiness for mission service.
Finally, ensure all forms are reviewed for completeness and accuracy before submitting them to the Missionary Department.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Missionary Recommendation Checklist Form?

The Missionary Recommendation Checklist Form is a vital document used by local church leaders to provide recommendations for individuals wishing to serve as full-time missionaries. This form includes essential information about the candidate, such as their personal details, qualifications, and the results of interviews conducted by church leaders. It helps ensure that candidates are spiritually, physically, and emotionally prepared to serve.

Who needs to fill out this form?

The form must be completed by the bishop or branch president of the missionary candidate. These leaders have the responsibility to interview the candidate, assess their qualifications, and confirm that they meet the necessary standards for missionary service. Depending on the candidate’s living situation, both the home and away-from-home bishops or branch presidents may need to be involved.

What are the key requirements for a missionary recommendation?

To receive a recommendation, candidates typically must demonstrate worthiness, have a testimony of their faith, and be physically and emotionally prepared for service. The church leaders must conduct thorough interviews, checking the candidate's understanding of essential gospel principles, as well as confirming any pertinent medical, emotional, or behavioral concerns before the forms are submitted.

What is the timeline for submitting the recommendation?

For young missionary candidates, the completed recommendation packet should be submitted no more than 90 days prior to the date they are available to serve. However, couples preparing to serve may submit their packets up to five months in advance. The available date should align with the missionary’s minimum age requirement and cannot be earlier than their birthday.

What should be included with the Missionary Recommendation Checklist Form?

In addition to completing the form itself, several other materials are necessary. A current photograph of the candidate dressed according to missionary standards must be attached. Furthermore, any special circumstances, such as financial support requirements or health issues, need to be clearly documented. Leaders are also encouraged to review all submitted forms for completeness before sending them to the Missionary Department.

What if there are concerns about the candidate's qualifications?

If any serious concerns arise regarding the candidate's suitability to serve, these should be addressed and resolved prior to submitting the recommendation forms. It is crucial to have open discussions with the candidate to clarify any issues related to their spiritual readiness, physical health, emotional stability, or financial obligations. Only after all concerns have been adequately addressed should the recommendation be finalized.

Can candidates with financial issues still serve as missionaries?

Candidates with outstanding debts need to have arranged to meet their financial obligations before receiving a recommendation. The church prefers not to recommend those who are significantly in debt unless they have taken affirmative steps to address their financial situation. Financial support from family, local church funds, or the General Missionary Fund should be considered after all personal contributions have been made.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Missionary Recommendation Checklist form is a significant step in preparing for a missionary call. However, many individuals make common mistakes that can create delays or complications in the process. Awareness of these pitfalls can ensure smoother submissions.

One frequent error arises from incomplete information. Candidates sometimes fail to fill in all required fields. Missing key details, such as the date available to serve or current marital status, can halt the review process. It is crucial to double-check that every section is complete before submission.

Another mistake is procrastination. The recommended timeline specifies that young missionaries' packets should not be submitted more than 90 days before their availability date. Couples, on the other hand, can submit their forms up to five months early. Ignoring these deadlines can jeopardize a candidate's chance to serve in their desired timeframe.

Providing outdated or incorrect photographs is another common issue. Candidates must attach a current photo that meets missionary standards. Photos showing inappropriate attire or grooming can lead to disqualification from the process. Ensuring the picture is recent and appropriate is essential for maintaining the integrity of the application.

Miscommunication among involved church leaders also poses a challenge. If the candidate has been living away from home, both the home bishop and the away bishop must confer about worthiness and submission procedures. Neglecting this vital step can result in incomplete evaluations.

Furthermore, candidates and endorsing leaders often underestimate the importance of the final interview. A thorough discussion between the candidate and the bishop or branch president is essential. If concerns regarding physical, emotional, or mental health surface, addressing these before submitting forms is vital for approval.

Failure to provide accurate citizenship documentation creates additional hurdles. Candidates must disclose details about their citizenship status and residency. Omitting this information or providing conflicting details can complicate the approval process, especially for applicants from dual citizenship backgrounds.

Moreover, ignoring financial obligations can lead to significant delays. Those recommending a candidate must ensure the financial obligations are understood, and appropriate arrangements are in place if required. A recommendation should not be made if the candidate is in debt and has not made definite plans to meet those obligations.

Additionally, the importance of confidential comments cannot be overstated. If there are sensitive issues, those should be communicated clearly in a separate letter or noted in the appropriate section of the forms. Failing to do so can undermine the credibility of the recommendation.

Finally, forgetting to review all forms for accuracy can lead to simple yet impactful errors that derail the submission process. Each leader involved must scrutinize completed forms to ensure correctness and fullness. The signing authorities are affirming the candidate's readiness and worthiness to serve based on their evaluations. Incomplete or inaccurate forms undermine this crucial responsibility.

Documents used along the form

The process of preparing for a mission involves several important documents beyond the Missionary Recommendation Checklist. Each of these forms plays a crucial role in ensuring that candidates are adequately evaluated and supported as they embark on their spiritual journey. Below is a list of documents commonly associated with the recommendation process.

Missionary Application Form: This form captures essential personal information about the candidate, including their full legal name, date of birth, contact details, and availability to serve. It serves as an official entry point into the missionary application process.
Priesthood Leaders' Comments and Suggestions Form: This document allows bishops or branch presidents to provide detailed observations about the candidate’s qualifications and abilities. It includes information about their leadership potential, interests, and any specific concerns that should be taken into account when considering their mission assignment.
Medical Information Form: Health assessments are vital for the candidate's well-being during their mission. This form collects pertinent medical history, ongoing treatments, and medication details to ensure that the missionary is physically and emotionally prepared to serve.
Interview Evaluation Form: After a personal interview, leaders fill out this form to evaluate the candidate's spiritual understanding and readiness for a mission. It acts as a record of the discussions held and the leader's overall impression of the candidate's suitability for missionary work.
Request for Supplemental Financial Assistance Form: This form is utilized when additional financial support is needed beyond personal and family contributions. It must be completed and submitted alongside the recommendation packet to address any financial shortfalls before the candidate's mission begins.

Each of these documents contributes to the comprehensive assessment of a missionary candidate, ensuring they are well-prepared both physically and spiritually for their time in service. Attention to detail and open communication throughout this process are essential for the welfare of the individuals involved.

Similar forms

Mission Call Packet: Similar in its requirement to assess preparedness for a mission, this packet also includes necessary forms and interviews that evaluate a candidate’s spiritual and emotional readiness before their assignment.
Missionary Medical Evaluation: This document is crucial in examining a candidate's health and ability to serve. Like the Recommendation Checklist, it outlines health history, current medications, and necessary medical clearances.
Application for Missionary Service: Just as the Missionary Recommendation Checklist requires personal information and a declaration of readiness, this application mandates detailed responses related to a candidate’s experience, background, and motivations.
Bishop’s Recommendation Form: Similar to the Priesthood Leaders' Comments, this form provides a bishop's endorsement of a missionary candidate's worthiness and commitment to service, influenced by personal interviews and assessments.
Financial Assistance Request Form: Like the provisions in the Recommendation Checklist regarding financial obligations and support, this form addresses the financial capacity of the candidate and family to support the mission.
Background Check Consent Form: This document, paralleling the criminal history inquiries in the checklist, ensures that a thorough evaluation of the candidate's background is conducted, particularly regarding any legal concerns.
Interview Summary Report: Reflecting the comprehensive interviews mandated by the Recommendation Checklist, this report summarizes findings and evaluations from the interview process, detailing insights about the candidate's readiness.
English Proficiency Assessment: Like the evaluations regarding personal testimonies and qualifications in the checklist, this assessment determines a candidate's ability to communicate effectively, which is essential for their success as a missionary.

Dos and Don'ts

The Missionary Recommendation Checklist form requires careful attention to detail. Here are key actions to take and avoid when completing the form:

Do: Review the Church Handbook of Instructions for qualifications and requirements.
Do: Conduct an in-depth interview with the missionary candidate.
Do: Ensure that the candidate has a clear understanding of key doctrines.
Do: Submit the missionary recommendation packet within the specified time frame.

Don't: Submit the forms without confirming all information is complete and accurate.
Don't: Recommend candidates who are currently in debt without a plan for financial obligations.
Don't: Overlook emotional and behavioral concerns during the assessment.
Don't: Forget to include a current photograph of the candidate that meets the missionary standards.

Misconceptions

Misconception 1: The checklist is solely for young single missionaries.

While many young people use the checklist, it is also applicable for married couples planning to serve together. Couples have special considerations and a different timeline for submitting their packets.

Misconception 2: Financial support is solely the responsibility of the missionary's family.

It’s important to note that financial contributions come from various sources, including the missionary themselves, their family, and the local congregation. The checklist encourages finding a solid financial solution before requesting additional help.

Misconception 3: Health concerns are not taken seriously.

Health issues, whether physical or emotional, are critically evaluated during the process. Thorough interviews and reviews are required to ensure candidates can serve effectively and safely.

Misconception 4: A photo is optional or can be outdated.

The photo must be current and show the candidate in appropriate missionary attire. This visual representation helps identify the candidate properly and reflects their commitment to serving.

Misconception 5: There is no need for a final interview before submission.

A final interview with the missionary candidate is a crucial step in the process. This ensures that all data is accurate and that any lingering concerns are addressed adequately before the forms are sent in.

Misconception 6: Candidates can serve regardless of their past legal issues.

Having a past arrest or police record does not automatically disqualify someone. However, full disclosure about such matters is required, and the final decision may depend on the nature of the issues and their resolution.

Misconception 7: Recommendations are easy to obtain without thorough checks.

Gathering recommendations involves a detailed and careful process. Church leaders must conduct comprehensive interviews and resolve all concerns before signing off on a candidate’s eligibility.

Misconception 8: The candidate does not need to show knowledge of church teachings.

Understanding core principles, such as the Atonement, the Restoration, and the Book of Mormon, is integral. This spiritual knowledge is part of the evaluation process, affirming the candidate's readiness to serve.

Key takeaways

Here are some essential points to keep in mind while filling out and using the Missionary Recommendation Checklist form:

Timing is Important: Submit young missionary packets no more than 90 days before their availability date. For couples, submissions can be up to five months in advance.
Understand Candidate Eligibility: Candidates must meet certain requirements, including the appropriate age and having a good understanding of gospel principles.
Interview Thoroughly: Conduct comprehensive interviews with candidates to assess worthiness and emotional readiness to serve.
Prioritize Medical Checks: Ensure any health concerns are addressed before submitting forms, especially regarding emotional, behavioral, and learning issues.
Provide Accurate Information: All requested details, including financial obligations, should be filled out carefully to avoid any complications.
Review All Documentation: Double-check that forms are complete and signed. An incomplete packet can delay the approval process.
Financial Support Matters: Confirm that the missionary and their family can meet financial responsibilities, as funds contributed to the Church are not refundable.
Maintain Communication: Make sure that all contributors are aware that contributions belong to the Church and educate them on how the funds are utilized.

These key takeaways can help ensure a smooth process when filling out the Missionary Recommendation Checklist form. Take care to follow these guidelines closely, as they will greatly assist in the preparation for missionary service.

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