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Take a Missionary to Lunch Day

Take a break from your busy day and treat a missionary to lunch - it's the perfect way to show gratitude for their service and spread kindness!

Thursday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 14

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYInterfaith

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to spread some kindness and appreciation on January 14 by participating in Take a Missionary to Lunch Day! This holiday was first created in 2002 as a way to show support for those who devote their lives to missionary work. It's a great opportunity to get to know missionaries, learn about their experiences and the causes they are passionate about, and treat them to a delicious meal. Whether you personally know a missionary or reach out to your local church or organization, this day is all about showing gratitude and making connections. So mark your calendars and get ready for a heartwarming day of giving back!

TIMELINE

Take a Missionary to Lunch Day Timeline

Missionary Lunch Day Origin

Take a Missionary to Lunch Day was first celebrated, encouraging people to show gratitude to missionaries by treating them to lunch.

National Recognition

The holiday gained national recognition in the United States, with increased participation observed in numerous states.

Holiday Growth

By its eighth year, Take a Missionary to Lunch Day had experienced significant growth, with celebrations and contributions occurring worldwide.

Global Expansion

The celebration of the holiday began to see active participation in countries across Europe, Asia, and South America.

Virtual Celebrations

Due to the global Covid-19 pandemic, the holiday shifted towards virtual celebrations, with people treating missionaries to digital gift cards and virtual meals.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Take a Missionary to Lunch Day

Host a missionary potluck

Invite a missionary or two to your home and have a potluck dinner with them. It's a great way to get to know them and hear their stories while enjoying delicious food.

TAKE

Take a missionary on a cultural tour

Take a missionary out for a day of exploring your city or town. Show them the sights, take them to local hotspots, and introduce them to new cultural experiences.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser for missionaries

Get your community involved and organize a fundraiser to support missionaries. This could be a bake sale, car wash, or any other creative idea you can think of.

TAKE

Take a missionary out for lunch

Keep it simple and take a missionary out for lunch. It's a great opportunity to get to know them on a more personal level and show your appreciation for their work.

HOST

Host a prayer gathering for missionaries

Gather your friends and family together for a prayer gathering dedicated to missionaries around the world. Share stories, pray for their safety and success, and show your support for their mission.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Take a Missionary to Lunch Day

Sharing a meal with someone new

Eating together at lunch can be a great bonding experience. By inviting a missionary to join you, you are not only building a relationship with them, but also possibly introducing them to new foods and cultures. Plus, who doesn't love trying new restaurants or dishes?

Supporting a good cause

Take a Missionary to Lunch Day is all about showing your support and appreciation for missionaries who dedicate their lives to serving others. By participating in this day, you are contributing to a greater cause and making a positive impact.

Getting to know missionaries personally

Taking a missionary out for lunch gives you the opportunity to get to know them on a personal level and hear about their experiences. It's a chance to learn more about their work and how they make a difference in the world.