Young Women Join the Missionary Force at 18

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has made a big change. They now allow young women to start their missionary work at 18, just like young men. This change happened right away. The church said that young women can begin their missions after finishing high school. Many young women are excited about this. At Brigham Young University, students like Kate Behrmann are happy. She can now apply for a mission sooner than she thought. Emma Olsen, who graduated early, was unsure about serving. But now, she feels more ready to go. The decision came after much thought. Amy A. Wright, a church leader, said it was a special moment. They talked to young women worldwide and got their approval. Wright believes this change gives young women more choices. It also helps them start their missions at the same time as young men. The church leaders think this is the right time for this change. Emily Belle Freeman, another leader, said God is speeding up the work of spreading their faith. She feels young women are eager to serve and share their beliefs. The length of the missions stays the same. Young women will still serve for 18 months. Young men will serve for two years. Leaders say most young women prefer the shorter mission. This change might bring more young women into the missionary force. In 2012, when the church lowered the age for young men, many young women joined. This time, the increase might not be as big, but it could still be significant. This change could affect many parts of life. It might impact college plans, sports, and family finances. It could also influence marriage and having children. The church is adding more missions and has over 84, 000 missionaries now. Some young women are happy about this change. Josie Tanner, a BYU student, is excited. She thinks it's great that 18-year-old women can now join the missions. She also thinks it's interesting that the church didn't raise the age for young men.