The announcement of the India New Delhi Mission by the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve creates a second mission in this bustling Asian country, and brings the total number of missions in the world to 348.
The new mission, to begin Nov. 1, will be created from the division of two missions; the India Bangalore Mission, which will essentially divide the nation in half, and the Singapore Mission.
The New Delhi Mission includes the northern portion of India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Bhutan. The rest of the country will be retained in the India Bangalore Mission, with the addition of the country of Sri Lanka.
Gary R. Ricks, serving with his wife, Florence, in New Delhi as a senior couple missionary has been called as the new mission president.
Nearly 7,000 members reside in this mostly Hindu and Muslim country. Most live in two districts in the south, including Bangalore where that mission is headquartered.
The Singapore Mission will be comprised of Singapore, East Malaysia and West Malaysia.
Members are fewer in the New Delhi mission, a twin city to Delhi with its images of narrow streets and sacred cows roaming the streets freely.
Yet, members distinguish themselves with their faithfulness, said Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve following a visit to the country in August. "They treasure their temple sealings."
Missionary work is active in these two missions. This second mission will reduce vast travel distances and increase the time presidents can work with their missionaries. — Shaun D. Stahle
