There’s no doubt that the Covid-19 has been the single largest variable in how the Gospel has been shared in the 21st century. From social media to social distancing, and from sanitizers to safety masks, 2020 onwards has stretched the boundaries of what is to be expected during the daily regime of missionary work.
If there is one thing that can and should spread more quickly than the coronavirus, it should be the Gospel. We have seen that many of the changes required due to Covid-19 did indeed create major pivots and optimizations in how the Gospel is shared. Sure, distancing may have changed the way our missionaries have been sharing the Gospel, but it didn’t change the fact that they are continuing to share it in new and wonderful ways.
As we begin to emerge from the latest variant and are cautiously optimistic about the future, we can recognize some of the changes to the way the Gospel is being shared online. One that has caught my eye is the incredible number of missionary artists that have showcased their skills over the last two years.
So, where can you find many of their works?
There is a public group on Facebook called Missionary Artists.
Take a look when you have a chance. I have shared a few of my favorite posts below.
Missionaries aren’t robotic anymore
Elder Joshua Pendelton created this great sketch showing that aptly illustrates missionaries no longer have to be robotic in sharing the Gospel. They can focus on and accentuate the specific characteristics that make them unique and interesting (including artistic depictions of the Gospel).
Rock Art (missionary style)
Missionaries in the Arkansas Little Rock Mission have literally taken to creatively painting rocks to share the Gospel! What a great way to involve members and make sharing (and finding) the Gospel an adventure!
Illustrating what makes a prophet
This missionary demonstrates how to illustrate a portrait of the Prophet Joseph.
(Literally) Drawing upon the powers of heaven
Elder Max Staheli, serving in Argentina, drew this great depiction of the Savior.
The light and dark make the art
Elder Tylor Nuttall creates some incredible images, including the one of the Savior with colored pencils and ink liners (it almost appears digital).
Helping #LightTheWorld in what previously was the darkest of places
Missionaries serving in Berlin, Germany, had the opportunity to make a message on peace on what was formerly known as the Berlin Wall.
Making the Book of Mormon Personal
Many missionaries are showing their artistic skills (and employing the abilities of members) to paint the covers of copies of the Book of Mormon!
You can see even more cover art and awesome illustrations here!
As you can see, there is not one “right” way to share the Gospel. Have a willing heart and mind, and utilize the talents you’ve been blessed with to light the world with love!