Because of COVID-19, the Missionary Training Center (MTC) closed for about a year and a half, like everything else. About two weeks before our departure date, we received word we would be going to Provo, Utah to attend the MTC in person.

Senior missionaries who are serving in the continental United States take their cars with them, so the plan was to fly to Provo, fly back, and drive out to our mission. We just took what we needed for the MTC. We had everything in boxes, ready to be packed up in our truck for when we flew back. The church paid for our flights to Provo and gave us a stipend for our drive out to the mission.

Those who are serving abroad have to bring everything with them to the MTC. Some have some serious baggage. Others send a box or two out to the mission home early, so it will be waiting for them when they arrive.

Many senior missionaries come from Utah, so they simply drive to the MTC. Some can even stay in their homes while attending the MTC training every day.

The first day we entered the MTC, they gave us just enough time to drop our bags off in our rooms before shuttling us off to a full afternoon of classes. All that first week we had morning and afternoon teachers that taught us from Preach My Gospel.

For the second week, we were divided according to our missionary assignments. As MLS missionaries, we were combined for our specific training. Our training involved creating a list of ways we can use initiative when we get on the mission. Some bishops will know how to use us, others won’t, so we have to be prepared and flexible. And we got a lot of coaching on technology.

Senior missionaries get the evenings off to relax while the younger missionaries continue having classes until 9 every night. We have it easy. We are also able to leave the MTC campus, unlike the younger missionaries. We also get one day a week, a P-day, to do laundry, relax a little, leave to go visit family, or whatever we like.

The cafeteria was interesting. It is basically a madhouse. There are several food choices, but feeding that many people means the food is not always restaurant quality, if you know what I mean. We do have to pay for all of our meals and that adds up. One good thing about eating in the cafeteria is that you can get to know a lot of the other missionaries that way, both senior and younger.

Every Tuesday night, a church leader comes to speak at the devotional. We heard Elder Patrick Kearon and Elder Marcus Nash. Every Sunday night, the MTC Presidency speaks.

And because the MTC is a closed campus, not everyone has the opportunity to see inside the buildings. There are pictures of Christ everywhere. Don’t forget to take your picture in front of the map. And one of the newer buildings has 12 incredible murals that are beautiful to see in person.  

Our two weeks at the Missionary Training Center was a highlight. We met such great people. I call it Zion, because we are good people, hanging out with good people, who desire the same thing. What would it be like if we lived like that in the world?

You can catch up on our journey here.

You can continue along with us on our journey here.