Mormon Land A deep analysis of the 55 new LDS missions | Episode 415
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Nov 13, 2025 Independent researcher Matt Martinich, known for tracking LDS Church data, joins to discuss the recent announcement of 55 new missions. He expresses surprise at both the quantity and geographic distribution, highlighting a shift away from traditional hubs like Utah. The discussion covers logistical challenges, the rapid missionary growth in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and how new missions will enhance outreach in the Philippines. Martinich also explores emerging trends in Europe, the strategic focus on U.S. population centers, and missed opportunities for language-specific missions.
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Unexpected Geographic Shift In New Missions
- The church announced 55 new missions, the most since 2013, bringing the worldwide total to 506.
- This large expansion surprised Matt because new missions were not concentrated in Utah/Idaho but shifted globally toward Africa and populous regions.
New Missions Require Big Investments
- Creating missions requires substantial investments: housing, offices, airfare, visas, and training for mission presidents and couples.
- The church's decision signals a major financial and personnel commitment to global missionary work.
Distribution Prioritizes Africa And Populous Regions
- Of the 55 missions, 17 are in Africa (31%), 16 in North America (29%), eight in Latin America, six in Asia, five in Oceania, and three in Europe.
- This distribution reflects a deliberate move to reach populous and previously underserved regions.