New Temple Square missionary model announced in anticipation of Salt Lake Temple open house
Jan 9, 2026, 3:39 PM
Overview of construction on Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Intellectual Reserve Inc.)
(Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Intellectual Reserve Inc.)
SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has announced a change to the Temple Square mission calling in anticipation of the completion of the Salt Lake Temple renovation.
The change means sister missionaries called to Utah will now serve in both Utah missions and at Temple Square, dividing their time between the two. The move was made to mirror successful models used at other temple visitors’ centers around the globe, according to the church.
With the change, the church said all sister missionaries currently serving at Temple Square will be reassigned to one of the surrounding Utah missions within the coming months. The transition is expected to be completed by July, and the Utah Salt Lake City Temple Square Mission will be officially discontinued.
“This adjustment is designed to enhance the Temple Square guest experience and increase missionary opportunities. With missionaries coming from multiple missions to serve on Temple Square, more can be available during major events and peak visitor periods.”
During intervals of lower traffic at Temple Square, the church said, sister missionaries will be able to make better use of their time ministering to others in their assigned teaching areas.
In addition, the church said a “limited number” of returned missionaries will be hired on part time to assist the sister missionaries with “enhancing the guest experience.”
“Missionaries at Temple Square play an important role in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, as they welcome millions of visitors from around the world,” said Elder Ronald A. Rasband of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. “The Church expresses gratitude for these faithful sisters who have served in this mission over the years. Moving forward, the dedicated service of sister missionaries will continue to be a blessing and allow Temple Square to be a place of inspiration for people of all faiths and backgrounds.”
On Friday, the church also announced the calling by the First Presidency of new mission presidents and their companions for 188 worldwide missions, with 55 of them being new additions. According to a release from the church, the couples will begin their three-year service on July 1.
