So You Wanna Count California's LDS Missions? Buckle Up, Buttercup!
Ah, California, the land of sunshine, surfboards, and... surprisingly a whole lotta LDS missions! That's right, for some reason, the Golden State boasts more missions than any other state in the US. Maybe it's the weather, maybe it's the In-N-Out, whatever the reason, California is a missionary magnet.
But how many missions are we talkin' about exactly? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this is where things get interesting.
The Great Missionary Census: A Numbers Game with a Twist
There's no giant flashing billboard that announces the exact number of LDS missions in California. (Although, wouldn't that be a sight?) Instead, we gotta do a little detective work.
- Wikipedia Says: Our trusty friend Wikipedia claims there are currently 15 missions operating in California. But hey, Wikipedia is like that cool cousin who might not always have all the facts straight.
- Church Website Whispers: The official Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints website is a treasure trove of information, but finding the exact mission count can feel like navigating a labyrinth.
So, what's a curious soul to do?
Well, we embrace the mystery! Here's the beauty of California's missions:
- They're Everywhere: From bustling Los Angeles to the scenic coast, you're bound to stumble upon an LDS mission somewhere. There's even a mission dedicated to serving the Disneyland Resort (because spreading the gospel to Mickey Mouse is important too, right?)
- Missionary Mischief (in the best way): Have you ever seen a group of young missionaries riding bikes with those giant backpacks? That's practically a California trademark. You gotta respect their hustle!
The Moral of the Story? It's Not Just About Numbers
While the exact number of missions might be a bit elusive, one thing's for sure: California's got a vibrant LDS community. So, the next time you see a missionary on the street, don't be afraid to say hi! They might just offer you a free Book of Mormon or regale you with tales of their adventures in the Golden State.
