David Archuleta is Mormon by faith. And at some point Mormons go on a mission to spread that faith.
So, will Archuleta, who turns 19 next month, ever do that?
Here is his explanation:
“A Mission? You know, I wasn’t kind of expecting this to happen. I was 16 and it (his music career) started early in a way.
“Seeing all the things that have happened and the stories I heard. It wasn’t like I was preaching or stuff when I was singing on the show (American Idol) …but with Imagine (the song), people would come up and say how it affected them.
“Every single letter I got during the show …they would say how they felt something and wanted to thank me.
“They felt something in my music and that is a big part of my belief. It was good to feel like people were feeling the same thing I was and to share that with people. Just to see how powerful of a tool music can be.
“I feel like the Lord surprises you. Like, ‘Hey I need you here and will you commit to being the best with the talent I have given you and the opportunity I have given you.
“I owe so much to Him and I give it back to Him cause He’s given me so much. Whatever way I can serve Him is what I want to do. It’s just figuring out the best way to do that. It all plays a big part of my life.
“It’s not exactly a mission, but it’s a way of doing missionary work.
“It is amazing to see how much of an example you can be for other people. People will pay attention to the example you set. It always amazes me. It’s very cool to see that. That has been one of the coolest things of this whole experience.”
So, will he be doing any church work during his brief stay in Stanta Rosa?
“No. It just gets difficult when I’m on my own headlining a show, going to a different city every day. It’s hard with so many different people wanting you to do things.”
TrudyFOD
David’s gift of music is his way I think of spreading the love of humanity. I know that I have become a more caring and loving person since I’ve fallen in love with David’s music and appreciate all his goodness as a person. He is truly a gifted and amazing person and his music is so spiritual and heartfelt. I think David has brought a lot of people together worldwide because of his music and we as fans have done a lot to support David, his music, and many of the charities he supports. I hope David will do what his heart and spirit feels it should do. I think what David is doing now is just amazing…as I have met some of the most amazing people from all over the world and we all became connected because of our love for David and his music.
November 29th, 2009 4:47 pm
Press Democrat: Von David’s Mission bis zum Tagesablauf auf Tour. « David Archuleta Fans Germany
[...] Archuleta’s Mission [...]
November 30th, 2009 4:33 am
Charlie
Serving as a full-time missionary is NOT the same as singing all over the place and shouldn’t be equated as the same. What Mr. Archuleta decides to do with his time and talents is a personal decision. Many very promising young men and women drop their personal desires to commit themselves to serving the Lord for two years and leave behind the life at home to so serve.
There are many blessings that come from the sacrifice of what your own will and the will of others might dictate and instead follow the will of the Father.
Not all are cut out to serve a full-time mission. But singing in paying performances and at church firesides is NOT a missionary effort, no matter who’s name is on the marquee or bulletin.
December 1st, 2009 11:21 am
StarryLaurie
I don’t think David is trying to take anything away from people who serve full-time missions. There are many ways to serve and many people David will be able to touch if he continues to use his God-given talents the way he has so far. He acknowledges the source of his talents and wants to use them for good. I’d say it is between him and the Lord. The rest of us, including journalists looking to stir up controversy, should stay out of it. I seem to recall something that may apply to this discussion…”Judge not….definitely something to think about.
December 1st, 2009 11:13 pm
Karen
I would miss David like an ongoing heartache if he left on a mission but would support him if he did. However, I think he is serving a mission of sorts with the example he sets. And the things he says and does shows his values clearly and draws others spiritually. Actually, a lot of people have been so impressed with David that they’ve investigated why he’s so happy and good, and have joined the church. I’ve met two of them myself. I know a guy serving in Germany and he’ll come home with fewer baptisms.
Donny Osmond offered to serve a mission and was told by President Kimball that he was already serving one. A guy I know who served in Finland told me about a missionary whose job was to put on piano concerts which drew people in and allowed us to at least fellowship those not drawn to religion.
There are a lot of ways to serve and not many could do what David’s doing. Also, bottom line, I don’t think it would be safe for him. He’s too famous. He’d be a kidnap threat. I think he’s doing what he should be doing, but the final decision is up to him and the Lord.
December 2nd, 2009 5:44 am
CindyW.
In response to Charlie: I admire other young people who drop their personal desires to serve, but they are probably not dropping something that is already serving the Lord and others, as in David’s case. Yes, he is a singer who performs, but he’s so much more than just a beautiful singer. The spirit within him is magnetizing. His admirable character and morals are contagious. His singing career has given him the opportunity to reach so many people. You will find testaments from people all over the world who tell how David has changed their lives, revived their faith, encouraged them to serve others through charities, or just simply made their lives happier and made them more caring to others. He has made a spiritual impact on many people and has become a role model for all ages. He has the goodness in him to make the world a better place… and he does all of this while being a singer with his name on a marquee or bulletin. Whatever way David chooses to serve will be a decision that he makes with the Lord. He will do what is best.
December 2nd, 2009 9:38 am
yeah
A mormon eh?
I wonder if his familiar with the verse
“seek ye first the kingdom of God.”
Full-time mission or singing?
hmmm. obvious. lol.
December 4th, 2009 8:16 am
David
My only comment is this. Aside from the wonderful experience a mission would be for David, I believe there are people waiting for his testimony brought by him. They need him. Also, what an example it would be to all young men of missionary age if served. If he can put his career on hold to serve, it is important enough that I should serve too. “Every worthy young man should serve a mission”. Obedience is better than sacrifice, to hearken than the fat of rams.
December 4th, 2009 9:18 am
Denali
I wonder if any of you are familiar with Donny Osmond’s story? The same type of thing happened with him and HE was told by the prophet that singing WAS his mission. Just like David says above, Donny was able to influence people by his singing and still can! I think David’s doing an awesome job by serving through his singing!
December 4th, 2009 11:52 am
Allyn
I agree with David’s comment, as well as others. The two year missionary service is something that cannot be replaced with another type of missionary work. The prophets tell every worthy man to serve a mision, not that every young man can choose to either serve a 2 year mission, or to do some other type of missionary work. It is David Arch.’s decision, but the full-time mission should not be replaced with what he thinks is just as good.
And, the most important person you convert on your mission is yourself. If David passes up on that opportunity, he is going to miss out on strengthening his testimony that cannot be achieved any other way.
December 4th, 2009 1:12 pm
Kourtney
i think that David’s music is amazing. i love it with all my heart. but i also think that him going on a mission would help him so much more. yes i am LDS (mormon). i know how hard it is to decide on wether to go on a mission or not. but even tho i am not old enough just yet, to go on a mission. im already doing missionary work in my ward. i have brought so manny converts into the church by just bearing my testimony. and if david did that he would be blessed. he is blessed so much by his career, but all the more blessings he would have going on a mission. i think he should go on a mission. it would be an AMAZING experience for him. there are people who need him.. they need to hear his testimony. i just hope that HE(David) knows that their are people waiting to hear the gospel and his testimony.
but i will support him in what ever he decides. i love his music. i
December 4th, 2009 1:23 pm
Jenna
Though serving a full time mission would be fantastic for David, I don’t think anyone would get much out of it. Anyone he came into contact with would only care about meeting David Archuleta, and that’s not the point. I think he’s doing so much better being such a good example and staying true to the values he holds so dear. And he can reach so many more people doing what he’s doing now than were he to serve a traditional mission. I believe the Lord led him to where he needs to be.
December 4th, 2009 1:59 pm
savanah
What he chooses to do is his decision, but I find it very unfair to say that singing at paying performances and at firesides is not a missionary effort. Merely living a good life and being a good example is a missionary effort. It is not the same experience as serving a two year mission, but not to be disregarded.
Helping even one person is a great accomplishment and David can reach so many through this music. I believe that as he continues to share a beautiful voice and a beautiful message coupled with setting a good example, he will bless lives and his life will be blessed in return.
December 4th, 2009 3:12 pm
Madison
I believe that although he chooses not to serve a full-time mission, at least he is helping others in one way. This is better than he could be doing. Also, him serving a mission could prove to be rather difficult. How many people watch american idol? how many people recognize his face? as a missionary people already look to you as a person who is exemplifying something. With his face being known that could distract from his missionary service. especially if he was sent somewhere in the united states. people would recognize him, ask for autographs and such, and that would not be as beneficial as other missionary service can be. i believe he should wait until the fame and stuff dies down. maybe when he’s older and married he can serve a couple’s mission. of course this is his decision, but i believe that might prove to be the best.
December 4th, 2009 3:22 pm
Stacey
No matter what we all think. The ultimate decision is between David and the Lord. Remember Judge ye not….. Good luck David and Best wishes.
December 7th, 2009 7:20 am
Jeff
If David does not follow the Prophet’s counsel and serve a full time mission for the Lord he will one day regret it.
December 16th, 2009 2:31 pm
Bart Mortensen
Leave the young man alone. If some of you saw the calibre of too many of the missionaries coming out into the field, you might change your tune as to it’s effectiveness. I’ll tell you–there are some lulus. Too many of them should just stay home and maybe sing?
December 16th, 2009 2:38 pm
Bishop D.
David is serving a mission. You may not be aware of the hundreds of thousands he has already influenced to improve their lives and thousands to research the restored gospel.
His Christmas Album is one such tool. His great example is another. He really has a pure heart his private self is the same as his public self. He is the real deal.
Know that he is following the promptings and the direction from his leaders, thus I’m not concerned about what he does. His heart/will have already been given.
December 16th, 2009 2:47 pm
Rusty
When I hear David Archuletta sing I think of the scriptures, baptism, how to be a better father, God’s plan for us, repentance, being a worthy husband, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ…He is better than any other missionary out there, because he is getting paid for it (zing)…Okay, he’s not a bad person at all, but he is not really doing missionary work, come on.
December 16th, 2009 3:11 pm
Jon
I wonder if he could even serve as a full-time missionary. Won’t his fame get in the way of the usual missionary activities like knocking doors, teaching lessons to investigators, attending church, etc?
December 16th, 2009 4:43 pm
Kate
What David decides to do, wheather that be serving a full time mission of not, no one has the right to say whether that is right or wrong. This decision is between himself and God. Who are all of us to judge. I mean all of this with the most respect.
December 16th, 2009 5:18 pm
Raymond Takashi Swenson
There are many Mormon young men who enter military service and then marry, so are not eligible to serve as a full time missionary. This was the case with many young Mormons during World War II and other wars. There is no reason, however, that they cannot be faithful Mormons and serve significantly in many other, part-time capacities.
It is not facile to think that Archuleta can accomplish significant missionary work while he pursues his career. LDS missionaries who serve in Europe can work for their two years and not baptize a single convert. On the other hand, I have seen people who were drawn to the LDS Church and baptized in Japan (when I was serving as a missionary there) directly because of the example of the Osmond Brothers and their openness about being Mormons. If Archuleta can influence just one person in each Mormon mission around the world to join the LDS Church, that is some 150 people whose conversions he will have influenced. There are only a few Mormon missionaries who could match that record. My guess is that it will average to several times that number.
The Mormon Tabernacle Choir involves the work of hundreds of people, but its broadcasts and concerts help to break down barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice and make the LDS missionaries far more effective in the long run. Archuleta can be, if he is true to his religious commitments, just as influential in opening peoples’ hearts to the Mormons. Indeed, he could perform with the Tabernacle Choir on recordings that support such public relations for the LDS Church.
Then there is one more point. Archuleta will be earning a large income. He can voluntarily donate a good part of that to support missionaries who are too poor to support themselves. For $5,000 a month, he can directly contribute to support not just one but a dozen or more young men and women who would otherwise be unable to serve. He can make a conscious sacrifice for missionary work.
Many Mormons, when they retire, serve full-time missions with their spouses. Archuleta will be in position to retire at a very early point in his life. In fact, once he is established, he can afford to take a year off before he cuts another album and goes on tour again. In that hiatus, he can serve a full time mission of some kind, including with his wife is he is married by then. With his talent, income, and time, he can accomplish a great deal. Indeed, he could conceivably serve multiple missions of a year in length, and draw on those experiences to prepare original music for his next album.
If archuleta is sincere about wanting to use his talents in God’s service, he can do things that few ordinary missionaries could do.
December 16th, 2009 6:36 pm
MarkM
Unless you have served an honorable full-time mission this concept is hard to grasp. What a full-time mission provides above ALL else is the opportunity to interact ONE-ON-ONE with people in their homes, and by bearing testimony PERSONALLY with people – live and in person where you teach by the spirit, then follow up with many many hours of selfless service as you go back on repeat visits to show your love and concern. This is what the church calls MINISTERING, or feeding the sheep. Personal priesthood ministering as a full-time missionary cannot be replaced with public singing, donating money, writing books, or anything else a young man may choose to do to ‘influence’ people in a public manner. This is the example Jesus Christ set, and why the Savior asks for full-time service.
December 16th, 2009 6:50 pm
E. Klinch
It his decision, and possibly his priesthood leader’s discretion. Others may influence, family and friends…
God bless David to be good with all his life’s decisions.
As a former missionary for Christ with a marginally good voice (and little fame, maybe a high school musical and a few church choirs) I wish that all good serve the Lord full time.
But Donny Osmond has done all right, as his kids. I saw him talking to two elders in LA bragging about his son in Italy.
Great stuff.
God bless.
December 16th, 2009 8:02 pm
Travis
I remember that Elvis Presley served in the military. It really didn’t hurt his music career. The military had special assignments for him there. Maybe he would have special assignments if he served a mission?
December 16th, 2009 8:23 pm
rose
When I think of all David has done for me by example, I believe he has already done the same for others. I would believe he has already accomplished what a two-year mission would accomplish. And the example he sets for our young people is beyond words. Few generations have had such a wonderful young man to admire and emulate. If he stays in the limelight, and surely he will, he will continue this good work because it is just simply a part of him. He lives it. Like several others have commented, I too would be concerned for his safety on a mission because of his fame. I’m sure the Lord is already telling David what the right thing will be for him.
December 16th, 2009 8:26 pm
Virtue
Being Catholic, I know I don’t have a full knowledge of the Mormon faith; yet, it’s sad to see such judgement cast on one of your own faith…please, drop your stones unless you’re without sin. David Archuleta isn’t promoting himself, and I know to some he seems to not even be promoting his Mormon faith. I think he’s promoting a larger picture. That being, “God is Love.” He so gets what many, in any religion or non-religion, don’t get. There’s a story about Saint Francis who told his friars that they were going to go to the village to preach. Well, upon their return to the monastary, one monk said, “I thought we were going to preach!” Saint Francis replied, “Preach the gospel always and when necessary use words.” From what I gather, it’s just a story; however, in the friars’ Rule, Francis told them not to preach unless they had received the proper permission to do so. He wrote, “Let all the brothers, however, preach by their deeds.” Dr. Carmen C. DiCello writes, “What Saint Francis is saying (using words, mind you) is that what God’s after is not merely a series of well-crafted theological formulas or a proper articulation of the good news. These obviously matter; that much is clear. But the purpose of the truth we have acquired, the intent of the gospel, is to actually find its way into our hearts and lives, dramatically altering the way we live, love, and relate to others.” This is taken from http://ollecid.blogspot.com/2008/04/if-necessary-use-words.html I truly think that David Archuleta tries to live the gospel; it seems to have found its way into his heart and life dramatically altering the way he lives, loves, and relates to others. I think he is holy. He makes we want to be a better person myself. He won’t ever get me to be Mormon, but he does get me to live my own religion much fuller. Please don’t use David as a banner boy for the Mormon faith nor judge his obedience. He has to follow his own conscience and will continue to make good judgements in the right season. I pray he remains faith-filled, and I pray for unity among all believers in God.
December 16th, 2009 9:08 pm
Jeremy
I don’t care if the guy goes on a mission or not or if anyone goes on a mission or not. But I’d like for people to stop saying that such-and-such is a mission. Singing isn’t a mission. Playing sports at BYU isn’t a mission. Sure, each of us can conduct our lives as though we are in service of the Lord and some people have gifts that give them higher visibility in that service – but a mission is a mission.
I wish David all the best as he continues to focus on living a Christ-centered life in whatever way he chooses.
December 16th, 2009 9:25 pm
mac
It’s not that his performances aren’t missionary efforts–it’s just that they’re not the same as a fulltime mission. Serving a two-year or 18-month proselyting mission is a singularly unique experience, and no one can say they’ve done it unless they’ve done it. That said, everyone should make the choice to serve on their own, and he shouldn’t be judged if he decides not to serve. I just think it’s unfair and a little naieve to say that his work is the same as a fulltime mission.
December 16th, 2009 11:33 pm
Desley
I was introduced to the Gospel through the influence of the Osmond family so I appreciate the potential for missionary work David has through his singing.
Having served a mission myself, I can also appreciate what David will be missing out on if he chooses not to do himself.
Although David’s profile in the US is huge, there are plenty of places he could serve where he could be relatively anonymous. He’s hardly known here in the UK, for instance.
I think it’s best for us to leave this decision to David who I’m sure will take counsel from his family, Church leaders and the Lord on this very important decision. I wish him well.
December 16th, 2009 11:52 pm
Andy
Everyone thinks they are the exception to the rule.
I get tired of having millionaire athletes and entertainers who don’t follow the most basic prophetic counsel (serve missions, keep the sabbath day holy etc.) being held up as examples for the rest of the church – especially for the youth.
December 17th, 2009 7:22 am
Sarah
Be realistic everyone, to preach the gospel for David Archuleta would be nearly impossible if he were to be a full-time missionary. He can barely walk down any street in America or the world without being recognized. Imagine trying to do missionary work with so security! Most people would want to have is autograph, have a picture taken with him, etc….but forget about his message. Donny Osmond faced the same situation. I lived in Boston while the baseball star, Dale Murphy, was mission president….he had similar experiences with reporters who wanted to ask him questions about baseball but couldn’t understand why he was doing what he was doing.
If people are truly sincere about learning more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints…they can always find out more by going to lds.org or mormon.org and have full time missionaries answer any of their questions.
December 17th, 2009 8:10 am
Camryn
“Judge ye not”
I’m disappointed in the comments left here by judging individuals. The decision is between David and God.
This is an admirable and devout individual setting good examples in so many ways. Please do not devalue them.
December 17th, 2009 8:55 am
Kdnel
“When visions, dreams, tongues, prophecy, impressions or an extraordinary gift or inspiration convey something out of harmony with the accepted revelations of the Church or contrary to the decisions of its constituted authorities, Latter-day Saints may know that it is not of God, no matter how plausible it may appear. Also, they should understand that directions for the guidance of the Church will come, by revelation, through the head. All faithful members are entitled to the inspiration of the Holy Spirit for themselves, their families, and for those over whom they are appointed and ordained to preside. But anything at discord with that which comes from God through the head of the Church is not to be received as authoritative or reliable.” (warning to the Church from the First Presidency in August 1913, quoted in Harold B. Lee, “Admonitions for the Priesthood of God,” Ensign, Jan 1973, 104.)
And now, a quote from a prophet of God to the Church:
“The Lord wants every young man to serve a full-time mission. …. Not only should a mission be regarded as a priesthood duty, but every young man should look forward to this experience with great joy and anticipation. What a privilege—what a sacred privilege—to serve the Lord full time for two years with all your heart, might, mind, and strength. You can do nothing more important. School can wait. Scholarships can be deferred. Occupational goals can be postponed. Yes, even temple marriage should wait until after a young man has served an honorable full-time mission for the Lord. … Young men, look forward to full-time missionary service. Show your love and commitment to the Lord by responding to His call to serve.” (Ezra Taft Benson, “To the ‘Youth of the Noble Birthright’,” Ensign, May 1986, 43.)
Individuals cannot receive revelation contrary to the direction given by prophets to the Church, and here you have one of the many prophets who have said “you can do nothing more important” than serving a 2-year mission for the Lord through the Church and that “The Lord wants every young man to serve a full-time mission.” Can He be any more clear? Important as music is, the fact is David is letting a gift the Lord has given him get in the way of the gift he is REQUIRED to give to the Lord. This Church is one of Order and David knows, from the prophets, where he is supposed to be.
December 17th, 2009 9:37 am
Becky
I think he should say he has decided to pursue his music career and that a full time mission is not in his future. That’s his choice, and it’s a personal choice that should not be criticized. What I have a problem with is him saying that his singing is his way of serving the Lord. We have a lot of singers. We have the Osmonds. We have the Tabernachle Choir. We have Gladys Knight. He has chosen his music career, that’s his choice. He cannot say music is his mission. It’s not even close to the same thing.
December 17th, 2009 9:59 am
Anonymous
David Archuleta, if he stays true to his beliefs, will do more good for God’s kingdom than any “normal” missionary. How many people will want to learn more about the LDS church because that’s what David Archuleta’s religion is? I know Donny Osmond has been brought up already, but I personally baptized a woman on my mission who learned of the church through him when she was a young girl. Eight years later she is still a very strong member. How many other people had a similar experience? Also, this might sound pretentious, but I also have met Donny and on several occasions have been invited to his home by his son who is a good friend. Donny is one of the nicest and most gracious people I have met. His son has been an example of righteousness to me and talks about his father being a similar example for him. To say that David Archuleta can’t call what he is doing a mission is ludicrous. A “normal” mission is not required to gain a strong testimony. A career as a famous singer might make it more difficult, but not impossible. Donny Osmond is living proof.
December 17th, 2009 11:15 am
ron jensen
who’s the moron that signed their name “Bishop D.”? As if he has stewardship over anyone else in this post. You may be a bishop, but turning from the counsel that “every worthly young man should serve a mission…” tells me that you don’t know what you’re talking about. The gospel is “no respector of persons”, and that includes David Archuleta.
December 17th, 2009 12:19 pm
Jackie
Donny Osmond didn’t serve a mission, yet it was through his music that my mother found and later joined the LDS Church. Those who say you can’t serve the Lord through singing obviously don’t know that you can, and that it will impact people’s lives.
December 17th, 2009 12:33 pm
Row
There was a time when only those who were “asked” to serve a mission actually served; not all young men were asked. My father and his 4 brothers were not asked, not because they were unworthy, but because the family was poor. It hurt my grandmother immensely. All her sons went on to serve in the military,and 3 have served the Lord in callings of leadership, and baptised many before, during,and after serving missions with their wives. We don’t know what the Lord has in store for David, but “let his light so shine”.
By the way, please don’t forget Steve Young. He has been a wonderful disciple of the Lord without serving those “best two years”.
December 17th, 2009 1:17 pm
Nick
Seriously, it would be more trouble than it’s worth. Considering how famous he is currently, his presence would likely be more of a hindrance than a help in the mission field. That isn’t to say that his personal characteristics are lacking, just that investigators wouldn’t focus on the message the missionaries would be trying to teach, because, “Like, OMG! I have David Archuleta in my living room! I’ve got to call all my friends!” Think of his poor companions!
And seriously, to all the judgmental haters… you do realize that people in your ward probably can’t stand the sight of you, right? They flee when they see you coming, because they can’t stand the self-righteousness that clings to you like a greasy miasma.
December 17th, 2009 4:48 pm
Christy
Honestly people there are so many ways to serve the lord . Not everyone can or is able to serve a traditional Mission and the church has realized this that is why some young men are called to serve in Service Missions. At the end of the day this is a choice between David and the Lord and the rest of us should be thankful he is willing to share his talent and mind our own business. (yes I am Mormon too)
December 17th, 2009 5:18 pm
Sue
He has the priesthood, it is an expectation to serve a mission. Also hate to burst his bubble, but seriously he is not that famous. Outside of the church most people outside the North American continent have never heard of him. So young David Archuleta reign in that eggo and prepare yourself for your priesthood responsibilty and serve the Lord on a full time mission. You will be glad that you did and the Lord will bless you as a result.
December 17th, 2009 6:56 pm
Kburdium
Okay, first off, about the Donny Osmond thing…that was back then when it wasn’t a requirement for all males in the church to serve missions, so don’t say that Donny’s mission was his singing. Second, now every worthy male member is supposed to serve a mission. The lord doesn’t make exceptions and say, “Well, David is really famous and his singing is really great and he’s inspiring people right now. So I’m not going to require a mission from him.” NO!!! It doesn’t matter your circumstances. And if singing seems to all you people like a mission, guess what? It’s not. He can change lives on his mission with his singing so easily. If he’s bringing people to the gospel now with his singing, imagine what he could do singing on his mission.
P.S. Basic message-He should serve a mission. It would set a monster example to everyone else about being able to put your life on hold for two years to serve the lord.
December 17th, 2009 11:16 pm
Julie
I served a full-time mission and it was an amazing experience. Each of us is called by God in a personal way, and no-one else can determine what that way may be. Part of the test in this life is to leave others alone and quit judging them based on our own experience. David Archuleta will do what the Lord asks him to do. It is not the place of others to judge his decision. That is one of the basic principles of our religion and I believe we should actually practice it. It would make the world less contentious. Certainly the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints would be much better if we were to practice what we preach.
December 18th, 2009 10:16 am
Ben
My question is : do all you people that think he should not go on a mission think that if he does that he won’t be famous anymore? That he cant continue to share his gift after his mission?
He is a great singer… but not as famous as most think he is. Great guy… great singer… i just think most people who say he shouldn’t go are basing that off opinion and “what is easy”
Most people nowadays have no concept of the word sacrifice…. hellooo! are we forgetting what abraham was going to have to give up? his son… and that was after he had to be circumcised at an old age… ouch! that sacrifice alone should get you into heaven…
The fact of the matter is that the only thing in this world that belongs to David or any of us is free will… and unless we are willing to give everything up to God… Including fame fortune and the whole bit…. things may be great in the end… but not as great as if we had made the better decision.
If he is a great singer now… he will be a great singer after his mission… plus he will receive so many blessings for making the right choice….
So… to everyone that says he shouldn’t go… I’m going to be honest with you and tell you that you are wrong. Bottom line… no ifs ands or buts… if he is worthy and able then he should go. It tells alot about who you yourself are if you think he shouldn’t.
December 19th, 2009 12:01 am
Pat Viola
I’d love to see David serve a mission, but some of us have other ways to serve the Lord.
Donny Osmond did serve as a missionary through his singing. Our family of six was introduce to the church and baptized, when Donny answered my daughter’s questions by sending the missionaries to us.
My oldest son baptized my daughter’s friend and he went on a mission. I don’t know how many baptisms he had. My two younger sons went on missions and had several baptisms. I brought two of my co-workers into the church. All of this because Donny Osmond was serving his mission, by sharing his talent.
I think The Lord knows what He is doing and will direct David in the right direction.
December 19th, 2009 8:15 pm
Norman
I’ve seen some of the most useless missionaries in the world come from Utah. We got them in our ward from time to time (in Minnesota). Some of them are even locked up in Gunnison and Draper. So, a being or going on full-time mission says little about you.
Archuleta doing what he does will either be a blessing or a curse. Whatever way he feels he needs to do and is prayerful about it and follows the Spirit, THAT is the right choice. It’s not the decision of anyone else.
December 21st, 2009 7:57 pm
nana
David is the one who supposed to decide what he will do in his life. Does he have to go on mission right now????? It’s like people decide what David have to do. If he wants to go on mission he will do it when the time is right for him. Right now let him concentrate on his music and doing the charity works that he loves so much. I believe he has already done so much for other people, more than those who went to a mission. Even when he was only 12 years old he already gave part of his winning money to his church. God will decide who is the good person and who is not. Let God be the judge. He is the one who knows exactly what kind of person somebody is, not just based on does somebody go on mission or not. Religion should not be so complicated. The most important thing is how to treat other nicely, how to behave properly, how to help others etc.
December 24th, 2009 4:22 pm
Matt
If David achieves to keep chaste himself and to remain far of alcohol and drugs, very common in that environment, he would be much better missionaries than who did a full time mission and broke the chastity law in the mission or backed from it. How I know a lot.
December 31st, 2009 8:18 am
Camille
Virtue, I loved your comment. Too bad you’re not a mormon
December 31st, 2009 10:19 pm
heath
Um… Why can’t he do both?? Why can’t he go on a mission and then come back and be a missionary through his music? I remember when I was little, I asked my friend if she could play that day and she told me that she couldn’t play because she had plans later that night. So then I asked her what she was going to do with her time until then. She said that she was just gonna spend the next 4 hours doing nothing. Thats when it clicked in her little head that she could play with me and go to her thing later…….. uh DUH! So the next time you’re conflicted and you can’t choose between two good things then stop and think and you’ll probably realise that you can have both. For example you’re not sure whether you want the popcorn at the movies or the Twizzlers…… just remember that you can buy both! Think of how happy and satisfied you’d be! Ta Da! Problem solved!
January 1st, 2010 10:33 pm
ldsliahona
I think that it is a win-win situation! David can spread the Gospel by either serving as a full time missionary or, just through his talents he can can do missionary work! Through his popularity, he has many opportunities to share the gospel with friends and fans. The best advice is just for him to listen to the Spirit. The Lord knows what would be the best move for him to make.
Whatever he chooses, he will be supported by many.
Serving a full-time mission is probably the best for most people, however in Davids special circumstance, either would be a good choice.
January 7th, 2010 5:44 am
jobob
David Archuleta is kind of a teen idol of sorts. It would be hard for a celebrity to serve a mission with all the attention he would attract. Unless he goes to some country where they don’t know anything about American Idol and all that stuff. Could you imagine David Archuleta knocking on your door with some scriptures? All the teen girls would love to listen, I’m sure, LOL.
January 8th, 2010 11:30 am
Mimi
I don’t know what to think, many people here are saying is his decision, but what kind of pressure this young men have to tolerate!! I knew the mission thing was some of Big deal for the Mormons, but i’m impressed, now i understand why all the youngs males go to a mission,….the pressure is out of control, every membre want to planned his life, i mean his income?? and judge his choices, and that is NOT RIGHT!!,nothing free and voluntary on that behaviour. People is a free decision!!!, but now seeing the kind of comments i’m reading here, even if he said is voluntary i don’t gonna believe him.
Nobody in the earth knows what is the mission of each human here, ONLY GOD!!
Now i feel very sorry for him. Poor David
Out now to do some research about the Mormons, this was inexpected to me!
January 11th, 2010 7:42 pm
w
EVERY young man is called to serve a mission. It’s not about him or his experiences is about building the kingdom by reaching those souls that are waiting to hear it.
June 1st, 2010 10:16 pm
Averybeeson mormon
Hey u guys! Leave David alone!!! Okay! Serving a mission is the best thing ever! All the men in my family served a mission!! U have two cuzins on a mission right now!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And David u just do wat u feel is right. Which is more important?
June 21st, 2010 9:28 am
abbey
i still thin he should go on a mission
July 28th, 2010 8:32 pm
Angelclue
I don’t usually comment on these things, BUT…
I think it is interesting reading everyone’s comments on whether or not he should serve a mission. I am thinking that most of us would keep our personal thought to ourselves (I hope) if it were a kid in our ward making this decision. Just because he is a celebrity should not change the way we act. His decision is between him and the Lord. I may or may not agree, but ultimately it is none of my business.
My son is currently serving a mission – and he would not trade his experience for ANYTHING. I am a Mormon, mom of 5, and a math teacher. Prophets have said mothers should not work outside the home. I feel like my job is a calling and a blessing and I get paid for it. The Lord gives us all unique talents and it is hard when those talents lead you in unconventional directions. I do the best I can – I only hope it’s enough.
October 24th, 2010 3:42 am
Daryle
I hope to see David on a mission.
June 29th, 2011 7:15 am
Diana
Let’s look at what David says himself:
“It’s not exactly a mission, but it’s a way of doing missionary work.”
He himself does not equate what he is doing with serving a mission, but in a broader sense he is doing missionary work. So why are people saying that singing is not the same as a mission? It isn’t the same thing obviously. Why are people arguing over a point that has already been made???
I don’t understand why people are so negative–he is doing what he feels is right, and really isn’t that all a person can do? I think everyone has their part and it’s their personal duty to God to find out what that is. No one can judge or know for certain what is right for him, only God and he can know that. Just the same for every person. What may be right for one may not be right for another, and who are we to believe that we can make that call? Let God be the judge and ourselves those who seek to understand and obey the lawgiver.
I respect David and his agency to do what he feels is right with God.
September 8th, 2011 6:00 pm
Disappointed
Yes, it is David’s choice whether or not to serve a mission, but my girls were very disappointed to hear that he chose music over serving a mission. They have no interest in listening to his music any more. For them, his choice tainted their connection to him and what he stood for. That he was unwilling to set aside the gift he was given and follow the admonition of the prophet to serve a mission greatly disappointed them. Is his music a gift? Absolutely. Did he lose the admiration of some listeners because of his choice. He did. You can’t compare Donny Osmond’s choice to serve with David’s. Different time, different generation, different admonition from the prophet. My own father couldn’t serve back in the day because he didn’t have any money. It haunted him all his life until he could go on one. I just hope David doesn’t have the same regret.
December 6th, 2011 2:34 pm