Creating a Ward Mission Plan

How to Create a Ward Mission Plan

A ward mission plan is more than just a list of goals. It is a vision for how your ward will invite others to come unto Christ. Whether we are helping someone learn about the gospel, supporting a new convert, or encouraging a returning member, everything we do should be centered on the Savior.

One of the things I loved about being a ward mission leader was how it helped me see the Church through the eyes of someone new. I would often ask myself, "If I were a nonmember walking into church for the first time, what would I notice? How would I feel? Would I feel welcomed? Would I understand what was being taught? Is it Christ-centered?" These questions shaped the way I approached missionary work and should shape the way we create a ward mission plan.

What Is a Ward Mission Plan?

A ward mission plan is created under the direction of the bishop and serves as a guide for how the ward will participate in missionary work. It includes specific actions to

• Help those being taught by the missionaries

• Support new converts as they transition into the ward

• Fellowship returning members

• Find new people to teach

Each ward’s plan will look different based on its unique needs, but every plan should be centered on Christ and focused on individuals. The purpose is to help real people feel the Savior’s love and take steps toward Him.

Creating the Ward Mission Plan

Sometimes, it's easy to set goals like “Have two baptisms this year” or “Increase sacrament meeting attendance,” but the best ward mission plans focus on people rather than numbers.

Instead of just aiming for more baptisms, focus on building genuine relationships with those learning about the gospel.

Instead of just hoping for better attendance, think about what would help someone feel excited to come back to church.

Consider

• What challenges do new converts in our ward face?

• How can we help those who are returning after years away?

• Are there part-member families who might be open to learning more?

Step 1: Counsel with the Bishop and Ward Council

The bishop holds the keys for missionary work in the ward and has the final say on the mission plan. Work closely with him and the ward council to understand the needs of the ward. Consider these questions:

• Are there part-member families who could benefit from outreach?

• Are there new move-ins who need fellowshipping?

• Are there returning members who need additional support?

• What are the biggest challenges in member missionary work?

• What strengths does the ward already have in missionary work?

Gathering this input will help shape a plan that meets the specific needs of your ward.

Step 2: Set Meaningful and Measurable Goals

A mission plan should include clear, realistic goals that encourage members to participate. Examples include:

• Every family prays for missionary opportunities each day.

• Each member invites one person to an activity or church meeting per quarter.

• The ward organizes at least one community service project per year where members can invite friends.

• Each auxiliary and quorum regularly reviews the needs of new and returning members.

These goals should be simple enough that members can easily participate but ambitious enough to encourage growth.

Step 3: Outline Specific Initiatives

Once goals are set, identify key initiatives that will help accomplish them. These could include:

• Missionary-focused sacrament meetings: Testimonies from converts or returning members can inspire the ward.

• Monthly missionary coordination meetings: Ward missionaries and leaders discuss progress and needs.

• Community outreach events: Activities such as holiday celebrations create natural opportunities for members to invite friends.

• Temple and family history work: Helping new and returning members prepare names for the temple strengthens conversion and retention.

• New member and returning member support: Assign ministering brothers and sisters quickly, involve them in callings, and ensure they receive all the lessons after baptism.

Step 4: Get the Whole Ward Involved

The best ward mission plans are embraced by the entire ward, not just the missionaries and leaders. Encourage members to make personal or family missionary plans. Quorums and auxiliaries should also incorporate missionary work into their efforts.

Help members see that missionary work is not just about finding and teaching but also about strengthening and supporting those who are already on the covenant path.

Step 5: Follow Up and Adjust

A plan is only useful if it is reviewed and adjusted regularly. The ward mission leader should report on progress during ward council meetings and make changes as needed. Consider keeping track of:

• The number of invitations extended by members

• The number of part-member families being fellowshipped

• The retention rate of new converts after one year

• The number of reactivated members participating in church activities

Regularly reviewing the plan ensures that efforts remain focused and effective.

The church has released a video of The Ward Mission Plan, which can be found here.

Final Thoughts

A strong ward mission plan brings the ward together in the work of salvation. When members feel empowered and involved, missionary work becomes a natural part of their lives. With prayer, inspiration, and a willingness to act, your ward can create a plan that leads to meaningful growth and lasting conversion.

Now is the time to start. Meet with your bishop, involve the ward council, and create a plan that will bless the lives of those in your community. The Lord is hastening His work, and you have a role to play in it.