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LDS missionary suffers broken jaw

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Central Britsh Mission RM | 5:15 p.m. May 2, 2008

My greenie & I were attacked from behind while on our mission. Nothing serious but every time we saw those young guys they took off the other direction. My greenie, a Nevada Cowboy & me took care of ourselves. But that said, we had to turn the cheek & we were able to baptize in a town that had gone years with out a convert baptism. I would advise Tyler to Cowboy UP but it sounds like he has already. God speed Elder, you are the Man.

Missionary Men | 5:16 p.m. May 2, 2008

A few years ago a missionary serving in Dallas was beaten with a baseball bat. The church, meaning the members, rallied. His parents came to Texas to be with him. He recovered, although it took a while. He continued his service. He never whined once.

One of my best friends served a mission but was sent home because of cancer. He recovered and the cancer went into remission. He elected to go out again and was sent to Boston. The cancer came back and he died.

A better man I've never known. He never complained about his situation and future. He'll never have the earth experience that you and I have had. His fiance by his side when he passed away.

I served in the Gulf War in 1990. I only have one leg to stand on. Bitter? No, I have one leg to stand on. The gospel is true, freedom is part of the gospel. People sacrifice for all types of reasons.

Best wishes Elder. You'll heal and recover, and your life will be richer because of it if ... if you can forget about being bitter and angry like some people here.

Lewis | 5:49 p.m. May 2, 2008

I am very sorry this happened to this Elder. I am surprised that his parents and family were informed. My son was serving on a mission in Wisconsin. He and his companion were robbed at gun point. I was not told about it until the day he was released; they did not want to worry me. He served in a very unsafe area. Their sunday meetings were held in the Odd Fellows Hall. The front door had several bullet holes and .45 slugs in it. He witnessed drug deals going down. A gentleman was killed outside his apartment. He and his companion both saw the dead body. I am thankful my son returned safe and sound. We all need to pray for their safety.

Comments continue below

Been there done that | 7:29 p.m. May 2, 2008

On "my" mission, I received more threats of violence from "Christian" ministers than from gang bangers I met on the streets. Yet I always tried to remain respectful and polite to both. My point is this:I know the Lord watched out for me and the other missionaries. No doubt he was with Elder Bowen too.

george h.hill III | 9:28 p.m. May 2, 2008

What is odd-not a word about this incident in the local Richmond press.

Asthma | 3:04 a.m. May 3, 2008

I have severe asthma and cannot be outside if there is a trace of smoke in the air. Perhaps this
missionary has allergies, asthma, or respiratory problems. After what I have experienced, everyone should be concerned about the quality of the air we breathe.

My cousin's son was hospitalized while on his mission in Idaho. The mission president called the missionary's mother, and she also spoke to her son. While he was in the hospital for only one day, they kept the family informed of his progress.

I live in a southern state and have been checking the Deseret News in recent months since the LDS church has been in the limelight so much. I am surprised that there are so many negative, even hateful comments on here. I expected it to be more Christ-like.

Brice | 3:26 a.m. May 3, 2008

Getting hurt on the mission is not a funny thing. I was on my mission in Virginia 2 years ago when the missionaries were shoot. This is another sad incident that has happened to the Virginia Richmond Mission. My prayers are with Elder Bowen. Remember "The Standard of Truth." As missionaries this is our "Title of Liberty." The work will move foward.

Rich | 5:14 a.m. May 3, 2008

I'm surprised that a relatively minor injury such as this made the Deseret News. Evidently missionaries are injured at a far lower rate than I had suspected. In Richmond it's no surprise that this incident received no coverage in the local paper as they have many more serious crimes committed daily. I had a drunk take a swing at me once while I was on my mission. Luckily I was able to duck, and his fist crashed into a retail product stacked nearby. The guy did not try to hit me because I was a missionary but because I was from America, which had bombed his country almost 30 years earlier.

Sabrina | 5:20 a.m. May 3, 2008

Those with a brain cell know that the world today is a dangerous place, and when you decide to serve a mission, there are risks involved with that decision. But I believe that the advantages far outway the disadvantages. God Bless all our faithful missionaries, wherever they are serving.

Why? | 6:22 a.m. May 3, 2008

Why all the negative words toward each other? Yes, we all have our opinions but can't we be relieved that Elder Bowen and his companion are able to complete their missions? Please, consider your words and actions before putting them in places where you may not want them. Consider Christ's responses to the missionaries work and our support of them and each other.

Much adieu about nothing | 6:53 a.m. May 3, 2008

There is a missionary cemetery in Seoul South Korea that I visited a few years ago were real missionaries rest. This family of Presbyterian missionaries spent over 100 years and three generations doing missionary work establishing schools (Yon Sei University) and hospitals (Childrenï¿½s hospital in Hap Jung Dong). This family sacrificed there lives for the Korean people. In one instance, literally sacrificing there lives for the people while protecting there flock during the 1953 North Korean invasion of the south. I was an LDS missionary in Korea 16 years ago, I was also assaulted, but I try to keep my service in perspective. I was a missionary. The family of Horace Grant Underwood were and are missionary heroes. This simple assalt is Much adieu about nothing..... LDS missionaries do honorble work but with out the work of real missionaries (Protistant and catholic) that go before them, they are a joke.

What the ? | 7:22 a.m. May 3, 2008

Such a non story

Indiana | 7:29 a.m. May 3, 2008

To Missionary Men @5:16. I don't know if you will ever see this, but thank you so much for your wonderful perspective. I am sorry for your loss, but grateful that God has blessed us with such fine men and Priesthood holders as you.... You truly touched my heart... humbly, I thank you...

Michelle Thomas | 7:31 a.m. May 3, 2008

Keep your chin up Elder Bowen. Plus I am glad you are back to work. It takes a strong individual to press on when life takes a punch at you. Remember the many blessings that you are bringing to your family and the people of Virginia. Endure to the End.

A different view point | 7:45 a.m. May 3, 2008

From one who is a return missionary.

It is my opinion that many times the Public
Relations Department who issues the news releases tries to minimize the damage done to Elders and Sisters on missions.

In my opinion the spin is to not make any mothers or fathers of potential missionaries fearful of sending their sons or daughters.

Just my opinion.

Ed Clinch | 7:45 a.m. May 3, 2008

We believe that Christ Himself descended below all of human misery; we are left to choose to take up His cross or no.

God bless this Elder, His emissary, and the missionary efforts worldwide.

Ironic that physically shutting his mouth has lead to the opening of so many others.

God works in mysterious ways.

I had a mystery illness in my mission, but it was not a violent assault like this that took the life of another Elder in the same state only a short year or so ago. It happened near Chesapeake or Hampton, in the Seven City region. His companion was shot in the arm and resumed his work.

May we all.

missionary mom | 8:02 a.m. May 3, 2008

My heart goes out to the Elder and family of this missionary. I'm a mother to a missionary so the empathy is full force with me. I hope his recovery is swift. I know the Lord loves His missionaries. God bless. Keep saying prayers for our missionaries.

Paul Morris | 8:07 a.m. May 3, 2008

Broken jaw is minor incident, makes me wonder what the LDS church is trying to hide or cover-up. Was it because something the missionary said, probably not, or the LDS church does not want to make a stink out of it. Would not want LDS church protecting my back!!

Good Grief | 8:24 a.m. May 3, 2008

Why would anyone suggest that the missionary may have provoked the attack? We have no idea what happened.

Incidentally, when you knock on every door in town, you put yourself at risk. It's part of the job. Anyone who's done it knows that. We should be proud of the young men that are willing to do it.

Anonymous | 8:32 a.m. May 3, 2008

This elder got what he deserved. Mormon missionaries need to stay away and quit trying to force their religion on everybody else.

dlm | 8:55 a.m. May 3, 2008

Congrats Elder Bowen...There is a war between good and evil going on folks...in a war there are injuries and yes, there are casualties. Our missionaries (and Elder Bowen) are on the front line of this war.

I personally expect to see/hear of more incidents similar to this going forward. The adversary knows the hour is near when the Savior will appear and that old serpent is desperate...
This comment by a RM, with children who are RMs and a Grandson currently serving...life is good.

What's Important? | 8:56 a.m. May 3, 2008

To Christians everywhere, and particularly those who actually belong to the LDS church....a missionary was attacked and injured. Let us all focus on discussing things pertaining to the attack, but particularly on strengthening the Elder's faith as well as our own.

May God bless him with a quick recovery, both physically and spiritually.

Mathew 5:10 - "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

Doctrine and Covenants 101:35 - "And all they who suffer persecution for my name, AND ENDURE IN FAITH, though they are called to lay down their lives for my sake yet shall they partake of all this glory."

Get Well.! | 9:33 a.m. May 3, 2008

First off, DESERET NEWS, you need to, as you say, print everyone's comments as long as they are not "abusive, offensive, off-topc or misrepresentive." Quit sheltering.! We want to read all comments. I would have liked to have read "Parents" comments...but guess what?? It was GONE. You do this a lot. What happened to free speech??
OK...I'm off my soap box about that now.
Most anyone who goes on a mission knows it can be dangerous. But honestly, your odds of getting hurt doing anything (driving, walking) are much higher at that age (19-21) if you do NOT go on a mission, than they are on a mission. They are doing the Lord's work, they know they are protected. But, on the chance that something does happen, they also have the knowledge that they are doing the Lord's work and it is what it is.
Too many people so quick to judge the church.! You need to look at your own lives and see how you can improve. Quit blaming others.!

Deedy | 9:38 a.m. May 3, 2008

Dear Elder, I just wanted to wish you a speedy recovery and regret this happened to you.
As a parent of a daughter who served in Argentina I know the concern and love a parent has for their children on a mission but also see the great blessings that have come from it.
Faith and increased obedience can get you through many trials.Check out Hel. 5:12; it's my new favorite! Enjoy the rest of your mission and know that many people will be praying for your safety,success,and joy.Best Wishes, it'll be worth it!

texanlynne | 9:38 a.m. May 3, 2008

Elder Bowen, I pray for your complete recovery and a blessed and fruitful mission. I'm grateful for your selfless service and that of every missionary. I'm also grateful for every parent that raises a mission-worthy child. I was a pot-smoking hippie in the 70s and early 80s. I was tracted out by missionaries like you in Dallas. The light and knowledge they brought to my door changed my life forever. I know where I would be without the gospel of Jesus Christ in my life and I don't ever want to be there again. I pray we will all remember that we are continuing the battle that began with Satan and a third of the hosts of heaven being cast out. "We are all enlisted 'till the conflict is o'er... soldiers in the army, there's a bright crown in store. We shall win and wear it by and by." I once was lost but am lost no more. I wish I had space to share my conversion story with you. Great sacrifices bring great blessings, if not in this life then in the next. God bless you as you continue to bring light to a dark world. We need it!

Bertram, Portadown Ward. | 10:01 a.m. May 3, 2008

May the Lord Bless all those who sacrifice their time to serve Him.
May Elder Bowen and all those other Missionaries who put their Lives at risk to spread the Gospel receive great reward!!

Mom of 3 RM's | 10:13 a.m. May 3, 2008

First off I would like to say that my prayers are with Elder Bowen and his family. Second, I would like to say how shocked I was at how devoid of Christlike Love and compassion some of these comments have been. Just because someone wasn't killed or maimed for life doesn't mean that his pain and suffering isn't real and as a parent even if it was a "Minor Altercation" you still can't help but think of how awful it could have been, it's just human nature. I know that they must all be counting their blessings right now, but the fear and worry is still going to be there. One other thing about THE CHURCH "protecting the missionaries better", if these young people were away at college they wouldn't have someone holding their hands 24/7 and it would be impossible and unreasonable to expect that on a mission. Missionaries are taught and warned and they return and report regulary (much more so than in any other situation) and bad things still happen, sometimes awful situations are unavoidable, but it is how we deal with those situations that help us to grow and become stronger.

Re: Paul Morris | 10:15 a.m. May 3, 2008

Dear Mr. Morris- What a LAME comment. Sounds like you have too much time on your hands. Go and do something valuable with your time when you have the urge to type something like that again- like mowing yours or your neighbor's lawn. Maybe the dishes need to be done? Vacuuming?

Karen | 10:40 a.m. May 3, 2008

Dear Paul Morris: Since you wish to speculate about this situation, how about the fact that there is zero news about this attack outside of SLC area? Think about it. Maybe it's not news elsewhere, even in Richmond, because it WAS a minor situation compared to other news events. It seems you'd rather fault the Church, but really, is there enough space in newspapers to report every time someone is sucker punched by a drunk relative or bar patron, a jealous lover, a school rival, etc. - or as in this case, by someone who possibly just doesn't like Mormon missionaries? It's important to the Deseret News because we love our missionaries and want to hear how they are doing - both good and bad! There is no reason to think the Church is hiding anything - calm down.

Voice of Reason | 10:42 a.m. May 3, 2008

Anonymous, you are a coward. He "got what he deserved"? You are sadly misinformed about what missionaries do. They offer service to any and all who need it, no strings attached. Any who want to hear their message can. Those that don't are certainly never forced to.

Jason Britton, he wasn't attacked by another missionary. He and his companion were attacked by cowardly men waiting in the dark. The article is a little vague.

And yes, things happen on missions. missionaries willingly serve in dangerous places, because they want to serve. My hubby served in the inner cities of New Jersey. Saw a lot of things he'd never seen in the small town he grew up. He was never assaulted , but he knew elders who were. We had a friend who served in South America, that faced physical attacks on a fairly regular basis.

returned misionary | 10:56 a.m. May 3, 2008

the church always down plays the incident to prevent bad PR....it is all about Public relations ...i wwish they would tell the truth no matter what the outcome might be.....

returned missionary | 10:59 a.m. May 3, 2008

and yes I have had my jaw broken (unrelated to the mission field) and it was NOT a minor incident... abroken jaw is not a minor incident!! i would like to break the jaw of the spokesperson who said it was a minor incident and see if they still think it was a minor incident...

BobP | 11:15 a.m. May 3, 2008

I was on a mission a long time ago in the hill country of North Carolina. My companion and I were attacked on the street. We DID NOT turn the other cheak but "retaliated with vigor". It was three to two but we won.

[On another occaision a rather crazy old man cut the buttons off my companions suit jacket.]

We should not be agressive but we need not simply take it. When my kids went on missions the looked forward to both serving the Lord and the adventure.

Good luck on getting better Elder.

Interestingly enough, the work went better after it happened.

Most missionaries are fit, tough young men and though they should not be aggressive should be allowed to defend themselves

Robert | 11:19 a.m. May 3, 2008

I am an RM from Virginia. There isn't much information to go on from the news account and all we have to go on is speculation as to what happened.

I hope Elder Bowen has a speedy recovery and that parents don't get disheartened and continue to send their son/daughters on missions.

Soon to be Missionary Mom | 11:19 a.m. May 3, 2008

My Son will be leaving for his mission in Brazil in August. However, just less than a year ago he was car jacked and attacked by two teenage boys in our nice,fairly new suburban neighborhood.( one of the fast growing city in America.) When he realized what was happening, he said a quick prayer and instantly he felt a strong voice tell him this is something he had to go through and that he would be safe. Of course as his parent, I experienced the range of so many emotions. But after reading this news story and everyones comments, I know my son's attack was a blessing. He learned so much about him self and how to deal with others who may not care that he is a missionary and wears a little black tag. I am actually comforted that he has already had life experiences before he leaves on a mission to be prepared for what may or may not happen in Brazil. This is life and being a missionary is an not exemption from trials. My prayers are with the Elders in VA and their families. PS. We do not live in Utah, but seriously should it matter.

Linda | 12:13 p.m. May 3, 2008

I am a new convert, and in my pre-baptism teachings I learned about Joseph Smith. I watched a video of his death. It broke my heart, I just sat there and cried, but I knew I had found the right church.
Those who focused on the bad they assumed was going on, walked away.

I'm so happy for B. Young. And I praise Heavenly Father that he saw fit that Joseph Smith was to give his life in order give me the Book of Mormon.

Should we be any less weak at heart? Do we turn tail and run? Or do we stand in Joseph Smith's feet and follow him the way he followed God, and the way I see Bishop's and Elder's do?

I pray not.

bilbo to Paul Morris: | 12:15 p.m. May 3, 2008

the function of the LDS Church, and the Missionary Program, is to minister to anyone and everyone.
Yoyr cutting remarks eliminate you as missionary material in a formal program such as the Elder was/is in.
Of course, you can be a missuionary every day in your life, however small and mean it may be.
Actually, you ARE a missionary. You just spoke from your heart with a strong message; a message of hate, bitterness and perverted view.
You may still be able to salvage your mission, though, with the help of the Holy Ghost, Jesus Christ and these young Elders and Sisters.
Folloow their example; cast your troubled life aside. God loves you, Jesus DIED for you, we will sacrifice for you.
Please heed God's Plan and Call...He is Calling you now!

mom | 12:17 p.m. May 3, 2008

my son was mugged while serving in russia. his president had him call us because the president didn't want me to get that news in a letter and would be comforted hearing my son's voice telling me he was okay. it was a very brief call from the president's office. i truly appreciated his love and concern. another son got sick and his president allowed us to call several times to see how he was. i was also allowed to call the president as often as i wanted to.

Sharon from South Africa | 12:31 p.m. May 3, 2008

Hi to all, reading this article has been a little disturbing at times. In life we all have trials that come our way, for every time we have a 'bad' thing happen are we going to blame the Lord and the church? Do we credit them when things go right? Satan would love it if he can place 'negative'thoughts into our minds, as parents we worry about our children's welfare at all times. This incident could have happened when he was at home, who would have been blamed then? The Lord?? We need to hold onto our testimonies, and trust in the Lord, and know that we will be blessed. We have had missionaries die in accidents all over the world, and parents have continued to hold strong onto their testimonies, and to instill a stronger testimony in their families. How this family handles this incident will affect not only their son on mission, but their other family members and friends. His parents and younger brother needs to be encouraged to know that all will be well, it is a natural reaction for a sibling to be angry, frustrated etc if someone they love is hurt. Hold strong guys!

Charles | 12:37 p.m. May 3, 2008

Do any of you have a life? What's up with all the speculation? Half truths and stupidity? If you don't have anything to say, don't say it. If you don't get beat up or scared on your mission at least 3 times, you can't be working too hard. We were walking home one night when a car pulled up along sike of us and the passenger made some very vulgar remarks. My companion did not hear the remarks. He thought they were asking directions. He took three large steps to the can, leaned down looked the guy right in the eye and said "pardon me." It scared the guy so bad that they took off. Word got out that you better not mess with the Mormons. We had no more threats.

Anonymous | 12:51 p.m. May 3, 2008

Jesus didn't defend himself. Why should those who claim to be his followers defend themselves? That is NOT Christian!

Sister from Canada | 1:01 p.m. May 3, 2008

To Wondering - It is a tragedy when anyone gets hurt - you need to take it to the Lord in prayer for even thinking that it might be somehow ok to hurt anyone - even if he were a member of the FLDS or any other organization - it is highly unlikely that the Elder in question was "mistaken" for FLDS -the nametag is a dead giveaway - This comment fits in the "What were you thinking? category. My fervent prayers and those of my ward go out to the Elder.

John L | 1:12 p.m. May 3, 2008

I think some of us are forgetting why they are out there to begin with. Luke 9:24 (JST) reads, "For whosoever will save his life, must be willing to lose it for my sake; and whosoever will be willing to lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it." These young men go out there into the world knowing full well what might happen. They are no different from the great missionaries of the past. Abinadi who testified in flames; the boy Joseph who testified of what he saw, of which he could not deny; Moroni who could not deny that Christ was the Savior of the World. I take great comfort in the scripture 3 Nephi 12:11-12 which reads ï¿½And blessed are ye when men shall revile you and persecute, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake; For ye shall have great joy and be exceedingly glad, for great shall be your reward in heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets who were before you.ï¿½

2 Sons | 2:26 p.m. May 3, 2008

I am the mother of two sons, one served in the Richmond Virginia mission, one is currently serving in the SDRC mission. As with anything they have participated in, there are risks. My thoughts and prayers are with the injured missionary. Best wishes for a full recovery. Unfortunately people are hurt everyday doing what they love and what is important to them, missionaries are no exception, none of us are!

Dan | 4:27 p.m. May 3, 2008

The Lord never promised a bed of roses. He did say that the work would be hard. As an RM who labored in the deep south. I can tell that on several occations I was run off the road by speeding autos, thrown through a screen door, by an Irate Lutheran lady who took offense by our discussion. I was met at the door at least two times with a gun loaded or unloaded, it was threating, and verbal abuse, but it prepared me for life. I retired after 30 years of military service. Both were wonderful experiences and if I were to live life over, I do it again, with perhaps a few minor changes. So if you're concerned about your sons or daughters serving the Lord, don't fret. The Lord will allow each to have a refining fire to experience. Take heart, Life is what it is.

LanceThruster | 5:49 p.m. May 3, 2008

Non-LDS here (atheist) - Some of the comments remind me of "Stepford Wives" (cultural ref for those not seeing the movie - they were programmed to speak and act a certain way). The biggest concern seems that the church suffer no fallout from this and the concern for the missionary is secondary. You can practically feel the hive mentality. I'm not saying the church bears any responsibility, but it seemed to be the first thing the wagons were circled around.

Ruby | 7:36 p.m. May 3, 2008

Be assured that the Lord knows ALL things! He is in control and will render his own justice. In the meantime, Elder Bowen, you are in our thoughts and our prayers! Also your family. Enjoy your mission!

LLoyd | 8:54 p.m. May 3, 2008

I house the missionaries in my home, and can tell you I worry about them constantly. However, they would rather I would just be there to help them teach when needed. They don't want to be babied. I have had 6 or 8 pairs come through my home, and am as proud of every one of them as though they were my own sons. Further, in a heartbeat, I would go to their aid if needed. Every one of them has proven to be stalwart young men, and parents should be proud. Let them have their opportunity to serve the Lord without being so ready to blame or accuse. I'm allowed to worry about them, my wife and I do, and we'll protect them when necessary, but we won't hinder. Thanks Elders. Oh, parents teach them well at home before you send them to me. I'll add what I can to help them. Lloyd

Jacqui Nuku | 9:35 p.m. May 3, 2008

I wish the world was a safe place for all but what we wish is not always able to happen, here in NZ we have had some missionaries die, two in a car crash and one hit by a truck, the world is dangerous but I believe the Lord will look after us, trials and tribulations are a part of life, as long as we have unshakable faith the Lord will provide, best wishes to the elder.

Pat | 10:35 p.m. May 3, 2008

I have just read all your comments and some of you do not sound compassionate, caring and Christian-like. Those parents have a right to be concerned about their sons and daughters serving a mission; and if you think that because you know others who were injured (worse) on their missions or whether you were injured on your mission does not diminish the concern that family feels when worried about thier son/daughter on a mission. This is a very different world right now and very dangerous. Shame on those of you who speak negatively of a parents concerns, feelings, worries, etc, calling them wimps and making negative remarks. You should be encouraging and compassionate for their feelings.

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