Is it Possible to Get Married in the Mormon Temple Without Serving a Mission?

For those unfamiliar with the practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (The Mormon Church), the idea of a mission call and its relationship to temple marriage might seem complex. While many consider a mission call an essential part of LDS church life, particularly for young men, it does not entirely dictate one's path to marriage within the Mormon temple. This article explores the nuances of mission calls and temple marriages, addressing questions such as whether it is possible to be married in the temple without fulfilling this duty.

The Nature of Mission Calls and Their Voluntary Nature

Serving a mission is a significant aspect of the Mormon faith, particularly for male members. However, the decision to serve is, in fact, voluntary. Male members, and in some cases female members, are asked to serve a mission as a degree of honor and a noble work. The mission is a priesthood duty, but it is not a requirement for marriage. This means that someone can be married in the temple without going on a mission, though there may be social and community expectations involved.

“Serving a mission is a priesthood duty for young men but it is not a saving ordinance. God is not going to strike you down for not having gone on one or prevent you from finding an eternal companion to get married to in one of His temples.”

Historical and Contemporary Perspectives on Mission Calls

Historically, mission calls have been an integral part of Mormon culture, often resulting from an individual's personal application to serve. However, in the early days of the church, mission calls were not merely voluntary; they were divinely commanded by God through His prophets. Stories abound of individuals, such as the narrator's second great-grandfather, who served missions after walking thousands of miles to fulfill their callings.

Contemporary perspectives on mission calls suggest that while they remain an important symbol of commitment to the faith and are encouraged for many, they are not strictly enforced. Many members find fulfillment in their church roles and relationships without participating in a mission. The church leadership acknowledges the value of personal and spiritual growth through various means, and the decision to serve a mission may be influenced by individual circumstances and needs.

Benefits and Social Expectations of Missionary Service

Missionary service is highly valued within the church, often seen as a test of faith, love for God, and the willingness to fulfill one's responsibilities. For female members, particularly in the pursuit of a family, a man's willingness to serve a mission can be a significant factor in their choice of a life partner. It is often seen as a sign of his commitment and spiritual depth, indicating that he is someone who can endure hardship and commitment over time.

“Serving a mission is a priesthood responsibility for young men. Many young women in the church when choosing a life partner want a priesthood holder who honors his priesthood and fulfills his priesthood responsibilities.”

While it is possible to be married in the temple without serving a mission, the social and cultural expectations around such a decision can be complex. The lack of a mission call may limit the pool of potential spouses, as many may view it as a sign of one's reluctance to commit fully to the church's expectations.

Conclusion: Variability in Church Life and Personal Freedom

The possibility of being married in the Mormon temple without serving a mission underscores the variability and personal freedom within the church. While mission calls are highly valued, they do not determine one's path to the temple or the choice of a spouse. The decision to serve a mission is ultimately a personal and spiritual choice, reflecting an individual's faith, commitment, and values.

In conclusion, while serving a mission is encouraged and often seen as a noble act, it is not a definitive requirement for marriage in the Mormon temple. The choice to serve a mission or not can vary widely depending on individual circumstances, and this decision does not negate one's ability to find an eternal companion through the temple ordinance.