PROVO, Utah — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a new video Sunday offering a behind-the-scenes look at its Provo Missionary Training Center, coinciding with a historic surge in the faith’s global missionary force.
The 20-minute video, titled “What It’s Like Inside the Missionary Training Center,” premiered May 17 on YouTube and other official church channels. Hosted by church convert Danor Gerald, the documentary follows young men and women from the moment they arrive at the Provo facility.
Viewers get a fast-paced look at the daily reality of mission life, observing volunteers as they meet their companions, navigate intensive language classes, practice teaching, and prepare spiritually. Gerald noted in the video that many of the young volunteers face real challenges and make significant sacrifices to serve.
Global Missionary Expansion
The video’s release comes as the church experiences unprecedented growth in its volunteer ranks. In November 2025, the church lowered the minimum age for single female missionaries from 21 to 18, matching the minimum age for men and inspiring a massive wave of new applicants.
Key statistics highlighting this recent expansion include:
- Current Force: More than 84,000 full-time teaching missionaries are currently serving in 150 countries.
- New Missions: The church will open 55 new missions this July to accommodate the influx, bringing the worldwide total to 506.
- Membership Growth: Nearly 900,000 converts joined the faith over the past three years, accounting for roughly 5% of total worldwide church membership.
Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles recently noted that the expanding numbers reflect a sincere devotion among the rising generation.
The newly released video aims to demystify the rigorous 8- to 10-hour daily study schedules these volunteers undergo before dedicating 18 to 24 months to worldwide ecclesiastical service.