From the Mission Field
4 Ways to Adjust to New Mission Leaders
If you let them, your mission leaders can become your lifelong loving and trusted mentors.
When I was in the missionary training center, I learned that my mission leaders would be prematurely released two weeks after I arrived in my mission. Shortly after my arrival, I realized how admired and respected they were by all their missionaries, including me!
When our new mission leaders arrived, there were a lot of mixed feelings. Some missionaries embraced them, while others were upset by the change.
A few months later, I was assigned a companion who had a poor attitude toward our mission leaders and their direction. Still new in the field, I listened to her complaints and felt that they were justified. I was heavily influenced by her attitude and began to focus on the negative, and I became critical of the actions and decisions of our new leaders.
When I was transferred, I realized I had been unknowingly inhibiting myself from receiving the help and growth I needed from these leaders. For the rest of my mission, I allowed them to become loving and trusted mentors in my spiritual conversion. I received powerful witnesses of the gospel through their teachings and counsel. When I encounter spiritual turmoil today, I still cling to what they taught me.
When mission leadership changes, it can be a challenge, but the way you respond can affect the rest of your mission—and your life. Here are a few things I learned about adjusting to new mission leaders:
1. Expect and Embrace Change
President Russell M. Nelson (1924–2025) explained how temple ordinances have been refined over time as prophets receive revelation from God. Changes continue to take place in our day. He emphasized, “The procedure changed, but the covenants remain the same.”
Similarly, your new mission president may receive revelation for your mission that will necessitate a change in procedures. Remember—although the procedures may change, your purpose as a missionary and the gospel of Jesus Christ that you teach remain the same. Both your current and previous mission presidents received direction from Heavenly Father. Even though the direction may be different, it doesn’t mean one is wrong. Missionary work is part of the ongoing Restoration, and “the ongoing Restoration needs ongoing revelation.”
2. Respect Their Calling from the Lord
Remember that “your mission president and his wife, who serve together as your mission leaders, are called of God and set apart to lead the mission.” The call to serve as mission leaders comes from Heavenly Father by revelation to His prophets and apostles. Trust and respect His will and timing and know that He has a special purpose for your new leaders.
He will guide them, just as He guides and inspires you in your missionary service.
3. Pray for a Witness of Their Counsel and Leadership
As a missionary, you are constantly sharing the story of Joseph Smith’s First Vision. His experience was initiated by the scripture “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5). As you invite others to ask Heavenly Father about the truth of the gospel, remember to ask Him your questions too. If you are feeling troubled by change, you can find reassurance through personal revelation.
President Nelson promised, “As you continue to be obedient, expressing gratitude for every blessing the Lord gives you, and as you patiently honor the Lord’s timetable, you will be given the knowledge and understanding you seek.”
4. Let Them Counsel You Personally
When I was doubting my work as a missionary, my mission president was able to discern my feelings through the Spirit and help me understand that I had been a successful missionary.
Speaking to newly called mission leaders, President Jeffrey R. Holland, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said:
“Among all the precious converts you will have during the next three years are the missionaries themselves. …
“And for me and millions like me, we will reach back to the teachings and testimony of our mission leaders for memories of our first real faith and belief. Legions have survived later in life on the strength of the gospel learned as young missionaries sitting at the feet of a mission president and his wife.”
Whoever your mission leaders are, remember that they serve Jesus Christ, so they will want what is best for you and your growth. As you both participate in the greatest work on earth, their testimonies and teachings of the Savior can change your life—if you let them.