LDS Missionaries and Swimming

[Trout]

I have heard that LDS missionaries are not permitted to engage in swimming while on their missions; is this true?

I've heard it said that one of the reasons is because Satan controls the water. . .:huh: Is that true?

[Xmansmommy]

Never heard that but then again, I don't know everything about them either. So.....:popcorn:

[Amazing Rando]

I have heard that LDS missionaries are not permitted to engage in swimming while on their missions; is this true?

I've heard it said that one of the reasons is because Satan controls the water. . .:huh: Is that true?

I know zero about theim either- so here's my completely uninformed speculation:

If you heard correctly, it might be due to modesty standards. Perhaps they don't allow themselves to strip down to swimming clothes while on missions because they're afraid it will portray them (and their church) as immodest?

[anthrogirl]

sounds plausible. When I was a kid in the Baptist Church, we weren't allowed to swim unless we were completely covered (and we weren't allowed to swim co-ed for awhile).

ag

[Trout]

I know zero about theim either- so here's my completely uninformed speculation:

If you heard correctly, it might be due to modesty standards. Perhaps they don't allow themselves to strip down to swimming clothes while on missions because they're afraid it will portray them (and their church) as immodest?

Another thought comes to mind, there are some articles of clothing that LDS missionaries are required to wear at all times. That could have something else to do with it.

[just Johnna]

....it might be due to modesty standards. Perhaps they don't allow themselves to strip down to swimming clothes while on missions because they're afraid it will portray them (and their church) as immodest?
Another thought comes to mind, there are some articles of clothing that LDS missionaries are required to wear at all times. That could have something else to do with it.


Image, safety, insurance. It's not an articles of clothing thing.

similar to the driving rules. (http://www.theologyweb.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23743)

There was folklore about missionaries in particular to beware "the destroyer [riding] on the face of the waters." Enough that Calvin Grondahl did a cartoon showing missionaries standing on the shore observing the devil waterskiing, and people got it.

W.W. Phelps said such a thing in August 1831, and it is referenced in D&C 61. I say it's more about the difficulties missionaries have faced in travel.

just Johnna