Sweet is the Work: Lessons from the First Sister Missionaries

by Breanna Olaveson

Young women serving as missionaries today are carrying on a noble legacy of faith and dedication that extends back to the early days of the Church. But who were the brave women who paved the way for modern-day sister missionaries? In Sweet Is the Work, author Breanna Olaveson delves into a previously unexplored history that demonstrates the unique ability of women to carry out the errand of angels. Discover the powerful experiences of twelve of the earliest sister missionaries, from the first single proselytizing women in 1898 to some of the wellknown sisters in Church history who were themselves pioneering missionaries. The women highlighted in this volume demonstrate the valiant and noble history of sister missionaries in an account that is sure to inspire readers to boldly go forth to share the truths of the gospel.

Genres: Lds, Nonfiction

98 pages, Paperback

Published March 1, 2017

Reviews

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a slim volume containing brief histories of the first female missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and women who shared the gospel in the capacity of their service. It was interesting to see how differently the church operated in the early days and the evolution of its organization. The trials and journeys of these sisters are inspiring and they are wonderful examples worthy of admiration and emulation. I especially enjoyed learning about Mildred E. Randall who served in the Hawaiian islands since I recently took my first trip there and was able to visit the temple on Oahu and learned some history of the first converts in the visitor's center there. I think the volume would have been more well-rounded if it had included words of testimony from the individuals but instead it focused on historical facts and accomplishments. I missed the spirit that declarations of faith bring. Overall is was fascinating and would be a thoughtful gift to any young woman or sister preparing to serve a mission, as well as a nice addition to your personal gospel library.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are some things that I take for granted and not ponder on them. One of them would be the beginnings of women serving as missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I never wondered who some of the pioneering women were or their circumstances.

This book takes a look at 12 women who served faithfully and boldly preached the gospel. The women came from different circumstances. A few were older and some were newlywed wives. Some had children in the mission field and some were single sisters. They all had in common a love of the Savior and wanted to share the message with other people.

The book has short chapters that are interesting and informative. My take away from the book was one of reverence and respect for the women who paved the way for the missionaries that we have today.

Source: I received a copy of the book from the publisher.

[Sydney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet is the Work is an enjoyable inspirational read. It shares different stories of the first female missionaries in the LDS church. This book shows the powerful experiences that these historical women had and the lives that they changed and made a difference in. It inspires women today to go on a mission and boldly share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. This is an easy and quick book that readers will appreciate.

Genre: nonfiction, inspirational
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Publication date: March 2017
Number of pages: 98

Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 3 stars

A review copy of this book was provided by Covenant Communications. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

[NaDell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short book about the first sister missionaries serving for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I loved reading about them and all that they did to help build up the church in areas and strengthen those who they taught. Must reading for my teenage daughters (and son when he's big enough too.)

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this quick read. I wish it contained more information on each woman, however. Maybe it was written for people who don't like to read much or aren't interested in history?

[Margrethe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hoping for more details and journal entries on them, but the stories were uplifting and enlightening, if brief.

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really fun and interesting overview of some of the first sister missionaries in the church. I loved it!

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice, easy to read introduction to some of the early sisters in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who assisted with and served on missions. I enjoyed reading brief stories about their experiences. I would recommend this to anyone who is even slightly interested in the history of sister missionaries as an easy jumping off point. The footnotes make the sources clear, so if one of the stories catches your eye specifically, it shouldn't be too difficult to search for more elsewhere.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here's another great non-fiction book for women to read! I was fascinated by the accounts of some of the first female missionaries included in this book. I loved the way each of the chapters starts with a picture and a quote about these remarkable women.

I loved that the book includes Lucy Mack Smith as one of the missionaries! Showing that one doesn't need to be formally called on a mission to be a good missionary. You can be a good missionary just by the way you live your life and by being willing to stand up for what you believe is good and right.

I really enjoyed reading this history of pioneering sister missionaries. I loved the whole book!

[Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book with fascinating stories and information about the history of sister missionaries.

Excellent book with fascinating stories and information about the history of sister missionaries. This was a quick read with very uplifting and interesting information. I highly recommend it!