How a service mission changed this young Latter-day Saint’s life

Initially disappointed, Tryston O’Toole found his service call provided ways to plant gospel seeds, gain employment and find an eternal companion

Published: May 27, 2026, 2:32 p.m. MDT

After completing his service mission in Corona and Riverside, California, Elder Tryston O'Toole is surrounded by his family in an August 2023 photo in Corona, California. Provided by Tryston O'Toole

Tryston O’Toole submitted his mission paperwork in the fall of 2021, eagerly anticipating a call to serve as a teaching missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Six weeks later, he and his family were invited to meet with the stake president, who shared unexpected news.

Because of O’Toole’s Tourette syndrome and depression diagnosis and the medication for both, he wasn’t considered for a teaching assignment. But there was another option if O’Toole was willing — a service mission.

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