We gathered info from 2 returned missionaries and a future missionary to gather info on Oslo’s mission presidents, packing lists, MTC, overall state of missionary work, and insider tips.

Mission Presidents

RM: What was your mission president like? How much longer does he have?

They were incredibly hardworking and genuinely wanted what was best for the mission. They cared a lot about the work and were always looking for ways to help the mission move forward. They are still serving and I believe they will serve until May of next year.

Packing + MTC

RMs: do you feel like your missionary portal/packet prepared you adequately on what to pack? do you wish you had or hadn’t packed anything else?

1. Yeah, I actually think it prepared me pretty well…almost too well because I definitely overpacked. 😂 There were quite a few things I never used. If I could do it again, I’d pack fewer dresses and more skirts and dress pants. Those ended up being way more practical.
2. It’s better to get all of your clothes & gear in the US. My parents thought it would be better to get my cold winter gear in Norway because…it’s Norway. But they didn’t have a great selection of styles & sizes. Especially for missionary attire. Pro tip: Loafers (slip on) instead of Oxfords (lace up) because Norwegians take their shoes off when visiting someone’s home. Missionaries are visiting people all day. They’re taking their shoes off a lot.

Oslo Details

RMs: What are your favorite things about Oslo?

1. Definitely the food, the culture, the people, and the language. Norway is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. Everywhere you go feels like a postcard. I absolutely fell in love with the country, and learning Norwegian was one of my favorite parts of my mission.
2. Serving those fabulous vikings by teaching them about the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. The culture is amazing; especially the concept of koselig. It’s like cozy, but so much more. Kvelds mat, or evening snacks, are unbelievably delicious. The geography is the most breathtaking in the world. It makes the Lord of the Rings blush. The food is fresh, healthy, & delicious.

RMs: what do you wish you would have known about Oslo, specifically, before you left?

1. Honestly, I wish I would’ve known how much the weather affects you. Norway is absolutely beautiful, but the long, dark winters can really impact your mood and motivation if you aren’t prepared for it. I also wish I had realized how important exercise is. Even if you don’t feel like it, it helps so much mentally. I’d also bring vitamins! Those made a huge difference for me.
2. It’s light 24/7 in the summer, but it’s dark 24/7 in the winter. You’ll probably baptize more immigrants than native Norwegians. Everything is super expensive.

RMs: What is missionary work like there?

1. It’s hard. There were definitely days that felt grueling. Most people aren’t going to stop just because you ask if they want to hear a message, so it takes a lot of patience and persistence. But there are people who are willing to listen, and those experiences make all the hard days worth it. The ward members are also some of the kindest people you’ll meet. They genuinely care about the missionaries and are always willing to help however they can.
2. Missionary work in Norway is primarily “finding”. Trying to find new people to teach. That’s difficult because most Norwegians are solid upper middle class. They have no temporal needs to humble them or draw their hearts towards God. So lots and lots of finding. There is also a good deal of member support. You’ve got a whole mission that is serving the same number of members that is found in one US stake.

RM: anything else you want to share?

Just remember that your mission is between you and the Lord. Everyone has a different experience, and it’s okay if yours doesn’t look like someone else’s. Take care of yourself physically, don’t underestimate how much the weather can affect you, and enjoy Norway as much as you can. It really is such a special place, and I miss it all the time. ❤️