Today, the organization employs over 25,000 full-time missionaries and has trained 225,000 volunteers around the world.
Teen Missions estimates that scores of its campers have gone on to become full-time missionaries or work for the church in some capacity.
In 2008, the couple decided they wanted to become full-time missionaries.
Often, full-time missionaries serving within a ward are referred to by the members as "the elders."
In 1986, the church received legal status in Zaire and full-time missionaries arrived.
In 1982, the First Presidency announced that the length of service of male full-time missionaries would be reduced to 18 months.
When he became president, most districts and branches were presided over by full-time missionaries.
In June 1997, there were 120 full-time missionaries working around the world with 22 different people groups.
Today, over 50 full-time missionaries work to minister to French- and English-speaking Canadians.
Often, full-time missionaries assigned to the congregation are asked to teach the Gospel Principles class.