In a significant shift within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), President Dallin H. Oaks has expressed that lowering the minimum missionary age for young women from 19 to 18 is a strategic move aimed at not only enhancing the missionary experience but also potentially influencing marriage trends among church members. This change, which took effect in 2013, reflects the church's evolving perspective on the roles and responsibilities of young women, while also aiming to address the timing of marriage in a culture that traditionally values early union. During a recent conference, Oaks emphasized that the decision to lower the missionary age was made with the hope of encouraging younger couples to marry sooner. He stated, "By allowing young women to serve missions at 18, we are giving them the opportunity to mature and gain experiences that will prepare them for the responsibilities of marriage. This is a natural progression that we believe will lead to a healthier timing for marriage among our young members." Historically, the LDS Church has placed a strong emphasis on marriage, often encouraging members to marry young. The traditional path for many young Latter-day Saints has involved serving a mission, followed by marriage shortly thereafter. However, in recent years, there has been a notable shift in societal norms regarding marriage age, as young adults are increasingly prioritizing education, career development, and personal growth before settling down. The change in missionary age has already had observable effects on the church community. Reports indicate that more young women are choosing to serve missions, which has led to an increase in the number of female missionaries. In 2014, the year after the age change was implemented, the number of young women serving missions rose by 87 percent, showcasing a significant shift in engagement among female members of the church. This influx of young women in the mission field may, according to Oaks, foster relationships that could lead to earlier marriages upon their return. Critics of the traditional marriage timeline argue that the pressure to marry young can lead to rushed decisions and potential dissatisfaction in relationships. However, Oaks and other church leaders maintain that the values instilled by missions—such as service, leadership, and adaptability—prepare young adults for the challenges of marriage. Oaks further noted, "Missions are not simply about spreading the gospel but also about personal development. We believe the skills and maturity gained during this time will contribute to stronger marriages." The church's focus on marriage and family is deeply rooted in its doctrine, which emphasizes the importance of eternal families. This doctrine has historically influenced social norms within the church, leading many members to prioritize marriage early in their adult lives. Sociologists studying the marriage patterns among Latter-day Saints have noted that, while the church promotes family values, individual choices regarding marriage have become more varied. In a broader societal context, the trend of delaying marriage is not unique to the LDS Church. Across the United States, data shows that the average age of first marriage has been steadily increasing over the past few decades. Factors contributing to this trend include changing economic conditions, greater educational opportunities, and shifting societal expectations regarding relationships. Many young adults today are choosing to invest in their careers and personal development before making the commitment of marriage. As the church continues to navigate these changing dynamics, Oaks' remarks suggest a desire to balance traditional teachings with the realities faced by today's youth. The potential for lower marriage ages, as influenced by mission service, reflects a conscious effort to adapt to contemporary cultural shifts while still upholding core religious values. In conclusion, President Dallin H. Oaks' advocacy for lower marriage ages tied to the adjustment of missionary service for young women signifies a notable intersection of faith and modernity within the LDS Church. By encouraging young women to serve missions at a younger age, church leaders aim to not only enrich their spiritual and personal growth but also to influence the timing of marriage, ensuring that the values of the church remain relevant in an ever-evolving societal landscape. As these changes unfold, it remains to be seen how they will impact the lives of young Latter-day Saints and their approach to marriage in the years to come.