E. Germans Open Door to Mormon Missionaries

The East German government has agreed to allow the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints the right to conduct missionary work there and to permit Mormons from East Germany to serve as overseas missionaries.

Thomas S. Monson, second counselor in the First Presidency of the church, reported that the agreement was reached during meetings with Erich Honecker, chairman of the State Council, and Kurt Loeffler, state secretary for religious affairs.

“Mr. Loeffler expressed his belief that Latter-day Saint missionaries traditionally become good-will ambassadors, not only for their native countries, but for the countries in which they serve their missions,” said Monson. “The experience of thousands of missionaries who have served throughout the world convinces us he is correct in his assessment.”