Dear Sisters and Elders –
This week I want to reemphasize two EXTREMELY important sections from the Missionary Handbook: “Staying Together” (pp. 30-32) as companions and appropriate relationships with members of the “Opposite Sex” (pp. 33-34). It is critical to our spirituality, protection, and missionary effectiveness that we obey these sections with precision.
Never Be Alone
As missionaries, we have been asked to “never be alone” and to “stay with your companion at all times” (MH, p. 30). What does it mean to stay with your companion at all times? It means “staying within sight and hearing of each other” (MH, pp. 30-31). We are told to “never make exceptions to this standard for activities that seem innocent but take you away from each other, including being in different rooms in the same building or home” (MH, p. 31). Please remember, you have direct responsibility for YOUR companion.
Association with Members of the Opposite Sex
We are also instructed to “never be alone with, flirt with, or associate in any other inappropriate way with anyone of the opposite sex” (MH, p. 33). This rule applies to our association with fellow missionaries, as well as anyone else. Be extra vigilant in living this standard. Remember that you must not only avoid an inappropriate association with someone of the opposite sex, but also avoid the appearance of anything inappropriate.
In addition we are told that, "you and your companion should not visit or accept rides from individuals of the opposite sex unless another responsible adult of your own sex is also present. Always obey this rule, even if the situation seems harmless...” (MH, p. 34). This rule is extremely important for not only spiritual reasons, but for legal ones as well.
On occasion, I receive questions regarding the application of this standard in teaching situations. Whether elders are teaching one female or multiple females, they need to have another adult (18 or older) with them. Similarly, if sisters are teaching one male or multiple males, they need to have another female adult (18 or older) with them. The accompanying adult can be an investigator or a member. If you contact a potential investigator of the opposite sex, you may teach them if you are in a public place (e.g., a park, on the street, outside on a porch visible to others, etc.). Otherwise, you will need to set another appointment and find an accompanying adult to go with you at a later time.
Thank you for your vigilance in following these very important standards of a full-time missionary and representative of Jesus Christ. As you follow them diligently, you will receive an added portion of the Spirit, increased protection, and greater success as a missionary.
With love and trust,
President Pingree