About Missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

I wrote this letter about twenty years ago to explain about our son serving as a Missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Our son is legally an ordained minister.  A friend of mine has a son leaving soon for Spain and the government is requiring a copy of his Seminary graduation (this is a four year course of scripture study which many students take before high school or give up an elective course to take) offered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints; and a copy of his Priesthood ordination certificate before he will be allowed a visa.  Our son has been ordained an Elder in the priesthood and as such has the power and authority to preach and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ.  He can conduct meetings, baptize, administer the sacrament, and bless the sick.  He may even be called on to administer the affairs of a small branch of The Church.  So our son really is an official, functioning minister.  When he returns, he will continue with the same priesthood responsibilities only not on a full time basis.  To maintain his legal status as a minister and to enable him to be an example to those he serve and earn their respect, He is required to live certain standards.  If he violates these rules of conduct, he is returned home.  All faiths expect exemplary behavior from their ministers and missionaries.