Women can now serve full-time church missions starting at age 18, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced Friday

Effective immediately, young women can choose to serve a mission at age 18 following graduation from high school.

“While the Lord asks every worthy, able young man as part of his priesthood responsibility to prepare for and serve a mission, we reiterate that missionary service remains an optional opportunity for young women,” church leaders said in a press release . “We recognize that for those young women who desire to serve a full-time mission, the choice of age to begin service will not be the same for everyone.”

Church officials spoke to news media about the change following the announcement. Among them was President Emily Belle Freeman, general presid

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