The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints First Presidency announced Friday morning that it is inviting 18-year-old women to serve missions.

The press release reads as follows:

"The First Presidency is pleased to announce that effective immediately, young women who choose to serve a full-time mission may begin their service at age 18 following graduation from high school or its equivalent.

While the Lord asks every worthy, able young man as part of his priesthood responsibility to prepare for and serve a mission, we reiterate that missionary service remains an optional opportunity for young women. We recognize that for those young women who desire to serve a full-time mission, the choice of age to begin service will not be the same for everyone.

We extend our love to the youth of the Church and commend them for their faithfulness.

Sincerely yours, The First Presidency: Dallin H. Oaks, Henry B. Eyring and D. Todd Christofferson"

About 12 years ago, the First Presidency under the direction of the late President Thomas Monson, lowered the age from 21 to 19. Prior to that, young women waited until they were 23 to serve mission.