Now that the decision was made to go on a mission, we had some important decisions to make. Senior missionaries have some additional flexibility in specifying where they serve, but the ultimate call comes by inspiration from the Lord through His servants:
1) Are you willing to go where ever you are called?
2) What is the earliest date you can go?
3) How long do you want to serve?
4) Would you like to serve domestically or internationally?
5) If internationally, what geographical regions would be of interest?
6) Do you want to serve where they do not speak English as a primary language?
7) How much are you willing to spend each month?
8) What type of medical help do you need nearby?
The Church allows senior couples to select 8 missions that are available on the dates you have specified. You then prioritize them. In end, they ask if you are willing to serve where ever you are called.
You also need to make doctor appointments to determine your physical capabilities to serve.
Through this process you also meet with your bishop and stake president. They interview you for worthiness and also provide information about you and their recommendations about your service.
Once all of the necessary information is gathered, your stake president will submit the application to the Church. This a very exciting time as you wait for a call that will impact you and your family the rest of your life.
Within a matter of weeks your call returns in an email with your call from the prophet. Ours returned in about 3-weeks
