Quote: ECT "You are given your missionary papers when you are about 19. You have to decide whether to go or not. It is expected that you will. Not many mormons will choose not to go if they are expected to, and the ones who do give up the chance only do it because their family has to pay for it and may not be able to afford it, especially if they already have several other kids. You can't just say I'll do it later.'"
I just wanted to correct a few things (not trying to be rude).
You are not given your papers at 19, but you can put in your papers to go on a mission at 19. This is something you must actively seek out to do. Yes it is true you are expected to go, but there are many reasons why people do not.
Also, your family doesn't have to pay for all of the mission. I have met several missionaries where they paid for it all and I have also seen several that have been assisted in paying for it. In fact, I have donated a small amount of money on some occasions. While this may seem strange to hear that missionaries have to pay for their own mission, it is in line with the Mormon Church having what we call a lay clergy. That means that none of the priesthood leaders get paid for what they do. We all fulfill our Church calling in our spare time and on top of a paying job. For example, I work full time and then on a weekend and a Wednesday night, I work with the Varsity Scouts. (Boys aged between 14-15).
What actually happens is that all missionaries are asked to pay in if their economic situation allows them too, but then it is spread out and you are given a living allowance where the amount depends upon where you are serving in order to try and make it fair for everyone.
People don't have to go at 19, they generally (from my experience) go between the ages of 19-26, but older people have also gone. There are also several people that go on their mission after they have retired. I haven't been on a mission yet, but I plan to go on one with my wife, once my kids have graduated from school and gone on their missions.
