Elder L. Tom Perry of the Council of the Twelve added his voice Saturday afternoon to those issuing clarion calls for more missionaries to serve in the Lord's vineyard.

He quoted Alma 4:16-19, which tells how Alma selected Nephihah as chief judge so he might himself continue to minister to the spiritual needs of his people."Alma understood a basic fact of life," Elder Perry observed. "There is no way of caring for the problems of mankind unless the great majority of them have been taught and subscribed their lives to a code of conduct which will keep them from falling into sin."

Elder Perry cited Ezekiel's account of the Lord reproving those who did not help to feed His sheep. (Ezekiel 34.) He added that the Savior, in His earthly ministry, lamented "the harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few." (Matt. 9:37.)

"The shortage of laborers in the Lord's vineyard continues now, as it did in previous times," Elder Perry declared.

He spoke of the increasing numbers of young men who answer calls to serve missions. "As the numbers increased, the call of the prophet was again heard to open the doors of nations to the preaching of the gospel. We have all witnessed a miracle of the power of the united prayers of the saints. Doors have been opened to the preaching of the gospel in nations never dreamed of or hoped for just a few years ago. Now the demand for increased numbers of full-time missionaries is greater than ever before. We again issue the call for every worthy young man to heed the voice of the prophet to serve as a full-time missionary."

Elder Perry acknowledged the large number of young women who also answer the call to serve missions, and said they have been some of the most productive missionaries.

In addition, he said, there is an urgent need for missionary couples. He read letters from couples and their mission presidents who attested to the joys they received and contributions they made to missionary service.

"Is this not a special time of decision for all of you young adults of full-time missionary age, and you special mature older couples?" Elder Perry asked. "Have you ever sat down and contemplated what kind of entries you are preparing for your life's history? Will yours be one comprised of slides and videos of worldly acquisitions of boats and motor homes, of travels and entertainment for personal gratification and amusement?

"Or will your history express the joy you have experienced in preaching and teaching the message of our Lord and Savior to all who would hear your voice? . . ."