Latter-day Saint missionary service has entered a new era of equality — the age is now 18 for everyone.

On Friday, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints announced that it is lowering the minimum age for female missionaries from 19 to 18, matching the age requirement already in place for men.

“The First Presidency is pleased to announce that, effective immediately, young women who choose to serve a full-time mission may begin their service at age 18, following graduation from high school or its equivalent,” the governing body stated. “While the Lord asks every worthy, able young man to prepare for and serve a mission as part of his priesthood responsibility, we reaffirm that missionary service remains an optional opportunity for young women.”

The announcement did not mention any change to the length of service for female missionaries, who will continue to serve for 18 months. Young men still serve for two years.

A previous age reduction in October 2012 — from 19 to 18 for young men and from 21 to 19 for young women — had a profound impact on church culture. Female participation surged, pushing the missionary force to a record high.

The ripple effects extended far beyond church service. Marriage, education, and career plans shifted for tens of thousands of young Latter-day Saints who postponed dating, schooling, and work to serve missions, just as young men had traditionally done. The change also influenced college admissions, sports recruiting, family finances, and mission preparation programs.

This new adjustment is expected to bring similarly far-reaching consequences, potentially affecting Utah’s birthrate — which, like elsewhere in the U.S. and worldwide, has declined among Latter-day Saints and remains a concern for church leaders.

Church President Dallin Oaks addressed the issue in a 2023 worldwide devotional for young single adults, noting that delaying childbearing “means fewer children born to grow up with the blessings of the gospel.” His wife, Kristen Oaks, added that marriage “is a gift,” offering the opportunity to raise children and grow together spiritually.

The missionary force could soon surge again. Just last month, in one of the earliest actions of Oaks’ presidency, the church announced it would open 55 new missions next year. The number of full-time missionaries has already surpassed 84,000.

Back in 2012, female missionaries could still depart only at 19, one year later than men. At the time, apostle Jeffrey R. Holland said “some separation” needed to remain. While the minimum ages are now aligned, the difference in service length — two years for “elders” and 18 months for “sisters” — still stands.

Asked in 2012 why the lengths differed, Holland answered, “one miracle at a time.”

It appears female missionaries will have to wait a bit longer for that next miracle.