Getting called to serve just got a lot more complicated…

Building up to the release of the final episodes of the hit Netflix show, Stranger Things, the Church of Jesus Christ of Later-Day Saints shocked the world with a huge announcement. Beginning in 2023, missions throughout the world will expand to the ‘Upside Down’.

For those who hate good TV shows, the ‘Upside Down’ in Stranger Things is the alternate dimension where evil monsters and creepy crawlies emerge from to attack small white children. If you’re still lost, just think of the ‘Upside Down’ as Florida.

As the official announcement describes, “This expansion will allow us to gather in Zion in completely different ways. Brave young elders and sisters will be trail blazers for the new generation. Some may die. But that is a sacrifice, we are willing to make.”

Dustin Henderson, local primary leader and monster slayer, will become the mission president over the ‘Upside Down’ upon opening. Brother Henderson has been a devout member of the church since they defeated Vecna (no spoilers just speculation). He served his mission in the Baltic States, Russian speaking shortly after graduating high school.

“When my Suzie-Poo finally converted me in ’88, I would have never dreamed I’d be a mission president. If only Steve could see me now…”

Billy Byers, one of the lucky prospective missionaries already called to the ‘Upside Down’ Mission and son of national icon Will Byers, shared his progress on the difficult mission language.

“The only words I know are HYYACCCKKKK and [Wet Squelching]. Luckily my Dad is helping learn the language too.”