The Savior’s Name Over Your Heart - Wearing the Tag

Missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints wear name tags. The tag identifies them as representatives of Jesus Christ and His Church. It also includes their title—Elder or Sister—and their last name.

For the past three years, one of the first things I’ve done each morning is put on my missionary name tag. What a privilege it has been to wear the name of my Savior over my heart. It’s a small piece of plastic with a magnetic clasp. (it used to be attached by a safety pin. I’m glad I’m in the magnet era) These tags carry a big reminder of who all of us missionaries represent and why we are willing to sacrifice and serve

One blessing of wearing a name tag is that people notice it. I’ve had complete strangers ask about it, which has opened the door to conversations about my mission and my faith. Sometimes a fellow Church member will spot the tag, realize I’m a missionary, and before long we’re comparing wards, and friends we have in common.

One evening, Sister Tappana, Sister Scott, and President Quinn and I were having dinner in Ukiah. As we reached for the bill, our waiter informed us that someone had already paid it. The anonymous donor simply wanted to thank us for our service as missionaries. I was deeply touched by such an act of kindness. It reminded me that people often notice goodness even when we don’t realize they’re watching.

I’ve heard that one of the hardest parts of being released as a missionary is taking off the name tag for the last time. After wearing one every day for three years, I can understand why. It becomes more than an identifier it becomes part of who you are!

Missionaries also have a tradition of taking creative photos of their tags. I recently asked missionaries to send me some of their favorite tag photos, and they did not disappoint. The creativity and enthusiasm behind those pictures made me smile. I love these photos with a CASRM mission theme. (More tag photos below.)

This week was filled with more wonderful “lasts” as we held our last five zone conferences. Our theme was “A Disciple’s Life.” We loved this precious time spent with missionaries this week giving them our final message of love & joy as we talked about being a life long disciple of our Savior Jesus Christ. ❤️❤️

*President Quinn getting ready to address the missionaries in Woodland*

We spoke at the Eureka Stake Conference and were priveldged to speak along side Elder Kevin G. Brown of the seventy. Once again, I was reminded what a joy it is to serve, to represent the Savior, and yes—to wear that little name tag.