MADISON – Ben Carter of Madison proved his dedication while serving as a missionary. Not only did he postpone entering college but also he traveled to another continent for his work.

Carter spent the last two years serving the people of Salta, Argentina as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Huntsville – Madison.

“Mormon missionaries can be seen walking the streets and teaching the gospel in hundreds of cities all over the world,” LDS publicist Wendy Reynolds said. “Carter was one of 70,000 missionaries currently serving in over 420 missions around the world.”

While serving, Carter developed a love and respect for Argentines and their culture. “People there are very humble. They are a very happy, upbeat people. They always liked to joke around, be happy, and have fun,” Carter said.

A typical day began by waking at 6:30 a.m. for personal study. Carter then attended appointments, served in the community, visited homes and met with local people. “Missionary work is voluntary,” Reynolds said. “They fund their own missions and are not paid for their services. Currently, 170 missionaries serve in Alabama.”

More than 75 percent of Argentines are Roman Catholic. Carter taught the importance of making covenants, or sacred promises, with the Lord through baptism and in the temple.

Missionaries and members wanted to build their own temple in Salta, Argentina. “Many (investigators) were amazed that they could be with their families again through the blessings of the temple,” Carter said. With hard work among all groups, the temple soon will materialize.

President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, announced plans to build a temple in Salta during the church’s April 2018 General Conference.

“Carter is grateful to be home again with his family. He grew up in Utah and moved to Madison with his family after he graduated from high school,” Reynolds said. “This move helped prepare him to serve in Argentina.”

“I don’t adapt to new areas well. It was a different culture out here, and it helped,” he said. This summer, Carter is saving money to enter college at Brigham Young University – Idaho.