Call me ignorant, but what does one do on a church mission? Is it more like helping the needy? (Rather than 'spreading the word'...)

Also, I heard that he was 5"6 1/2.

Nice article =)

This kid absolutely kills me. I didn't think it was possible to like him any more than I already did, but after reading this article, I do. In addition to his voice being a gift, I find it astonishing to think about the kinds of prescient goals he had as an 8-year-old. That was a gift, too. Go, Elder Archuleta!

Great article. It is interesting to hear about his background. What a huge story it'll be when he takes a break from being a star to go on a mission!! He's been a great example so far, keep it up.

One question, how do you know who gets the most votes? It stated that he has been first in the popular vote.

To Samara:
If David follows through on his plan to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, he will indicate his willingness to serve at age 19. He will then be issued a call to serve in one of the Church's 344 missions worldwide. He would join 53,000 missionaries: young men, young women and couples. Each pays his or her own way--there is no salary or stipend. For two years he will set aside school, career plans and dating and teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who express interest.

Missionaries are also involved in organized and ad hoc service projects on a regular basis, and will occasionally be called on to provide disaster relief if a catastrophe strikes near where they serve.

Hope that answers your question (can't help on the height issue...).

Samara, it's both. Spreading the word and helping the needy are both part of a mission.

"He has ranked first in the "American Idol" popular vote in every round." Nice try but the auditing firm does not release those numbers.

A church mission is both. You spend a lot of time "spreading the word" but you are also able to go out and help the needy quite a bit. For me it was an incredible life changing experience as I worked with the people of Brazil.

From what I have seen of David, he would make a great missionary. He seems humble, talented, likeable, etc. The shyness would probably disappear a bit. I was very shy but quickly came out of my shell as a missionary.

Hope that helps.

Great article. Great to learn more about an exceptional young man who understands about focus and goal-setting. Can't wait to watch him perform again this week!

I think David will serve a mission with a microphone in his hand. He will be too famous to serve a regular mission. I remember Donny Osmond went to President Kimball and offered to serve, and the prophet told him to keep doing what he was doing. I think the same thing will happen with David.

I believe David will provoke a great deal of goodwill towards the Church because he is such an incredible example of a good Christian youth, and is so completely cute and winsome. It's impossible to dislike him if you're a normal human being. And, that voice! It's like magic, it's so soothing, soulful and passionate.

Favorite comments that I've read about him: 1) "If Heaven could sing, David, it would sound like you." 2) "Just can't get enough of David's soothing voice. He is food for the soul." 3) Following 'Imagine'--"I'm 6'4", 210 pounds, covered with tatoos. I watched this and cried like a schoolgirl." 4) "This kid could sing the phonebook, and it would sound beautiful."

His iTunes version of 'Imagine' is #1 and completely dwarfs the iTunes purchases of ALL the other contestants COMBINED; he has 4 in the top 18.

Yes, this kid has guts! Great voice and personality. Checking several on-line sources to hear him sing at various stages of his life, there is one little thing I hear that could knock him out of winning Idol. There is something in his breathing, almost gasping. Perhaps it is the microphones being used, and someone needs to help him deal with this. (I know Sanjaya Malakar did some amazing American Idol studio work that most people never heard.) I really hope David wins. He has what it takes to be a true star.

He is as cute as can be. I am glad that he is an active member of the Church and I am proud that I belong to the same Church. Great voice, great gift. No doubt he will make it!! God Bless you David and your family.

It might not be possible to serve a mission. However, it would be wonderful if he told the world: "Call me in 2 years. I'll be busy serving the Lord until then." What a wonderful example that will be! (Ok, he's already a good example!)

There is a website called, "DialIdol.com," which is not in any way affiliated with the show. The website purports to measure and predict the vote each week by measuring the busy signal for each Idol contestant. If DialIdol is able to easily get through by calling a contestant's phone#, it means that contestant is NOT doing well in the vote. On the other hand, if it is nearly impossible to get through (nothing but busy signal), it is thought that contestant is being deluged by votes. The results are posted each week on DialIdol.com, along with the website's predictions. For the past several years, the website has been correct more than 85% of the time. So far, this season, it has shown David Archuleta as receiving far, far more votes than any of the other contestants. Brooke White (also LDS, and from Arizona and California) would appear to be a distant second. So that's why the reporter is able to make the statement he did about David "ranking first" in every round. Hope that's helpful.

Finally, an article that had me beaming with pride for a young man whose voice fills me with such peace and joy. He is exactly what our younger generation needs right now. American Idol or not, he is destined for greatness and I, for one, cannot wait to watch.

To put it simply, everything about David makes me happy. Period.

I've never voted for an American Idol contestant until now, nor have I ever purchased music from any Idol contestant/winner--until now. I want to be first in line to buy whatever David A. sings. He is blessed with an amazing gift, and we are blessed to have him share that gift. Go David !!!

It's amazing to see a young man like David Archuleta. He has had an astonishing impact on people with his gift and his spirit shines throughout his very being. His mission has already begun and his spirit is touching hearts around the world. The Archuleta family should be very proud of the example he sets for the church and because the apple doesn't fall far from the tree!!! Keep it up David!

Impossible not to adore him...and he was born to sing. God gives gifts to everyone, and singing with the heart is his gift!

It will be interesting to see if he will serve a mission, there are many areas that will not know who he is, can you imagine his using his voice on a mission? I am really pleased with his sweet nature and also Brooke's both of them have such gentle souls and we in this nation really need that. I also feel that way about Jason, he is a sweet kid too. The other night when they were with the last group, Brooke whispered to David A to go sit down, how lucky he is to have someone there that has strong values, not to say others don't. It doesn't matter if either Brooke or David win, they both will do well, and they both have such unique voices, part of Davids breathy voice is a result of having had paralized vocal chords.

I've also read in American Idol's info that David is 5'6 1/2" tall.

I don't think that his height is going to hurt him, though. He has the huge, soaring vocals that everyone loves, and his passion for music and that exquisite voice are contagious. Besides that, David is cute as can be and has such a winsome, endearing personality that you can't help but love him.

Look at how America feels about Michael J. Fox. I think it will be the same way with David. Height or no height, they'll love him coz they love him. Period.

I think Brooke has a good future in the music business ahead of her. She also brings a wholesomeness that is very appealing, and she has a new Carol King-like vibe that is attracting a lot of attention.

YouTube is a fantastic place to go to see what these two really have to offer. David has some incredible old stuff out from EFY, talent shows, etc. His Christmas songs are jaw dropping! Also, watch David's great interviews out on YouTube. For being SO shy, he's doing really well!

I think Brooke will place high, that David will ultimately win. Good luck, guys!

David is amazing, he is almost perfect, he's lds, he is an amazing singer, he's really sweet, he will go far, and he will win american idol, no doubt. I will be on my phone when the numbers come on the tv and vote like 100 something times! Utah has got his back. Love you David!!! <3

I really like this guy. He sings so well. I usually don't care much who wins American Idol, but this time I am pulling for David to win it all. He is a super representative of the church, also. He is what youth should be in our country.

Wow...what a wonderful article!!! We are good friends with the Archuleta's. I love the comment that "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree"...that is exactly true...I know from personal knowledge! David's Mom and Dad are wonderful people! Lupe (David's Mom) spoke to the kids the other day and told them that they don't have to be famous to be someone...I was so impressed with the way she talked with them...so sincere! She said if you live good lives and do good things...that's what's important! Jeff (David's Dad) called me and he was feeling a little down due some of the "mean" things some tabloids had said. Jeff has been a wonderful Father to his children...very committed!!

Thanks again for this wonderful article! Go David!!

He is so sugary sweet and wonderfully full of delicious cake and candy!

David has an amazing talent!! I am all for him winning American Idol. I vote every week. I can't wait until it is time for him to go on a mission, and i think he will make the right choice to go on it(besides, I will be 19 when he's and RM!!) I know he will be a good example to the world.

We all loved David from the very start. Knowing that he is LDS just made us love him more because we feel like he is one of us. We love his smile, his humbleness, his enthusiasm and above all, we love hear him singing. We pray that he can continue to shine, to do his best and to keep his feet on the earth. In the meantime we keep voting for him. What a great role model!
Go David!!!!!

I am not a teenager (far from it), not LDS, have never spent more than 12 hours in Utah and have never bought any American Idol product. But let me tell you, I am so impressed with David Archuleta. Not only is he a great talent, but a true ray of sunshine and a great example for today's youth. Whether he wins or not, he has a bright future ahead of him, and the world will be a better place for it.

Why are people talking about height? It's about talent. His version of Imagine was amazing. I hope he and Brooke continue to the final 2. Above all, I'd love to see him serve a mission, but it would be difficult to serve in the states if he wins and goes on to commercial success. But not impossible.

You are wonderful David! Don't sacrifice a college education or a mission. You are talented in many areas. An education will always be valuable to a career in music or whatever you ultimately pursue. Your family needs this insurance. Equally important is a mission. Nothing can replace the experiences you will gain and the opportunity to serve the Lord.

I wish people would stop putting manipulative comments in here about him serving a mission. You have no idea how famous he will be and how much danger it could put his life in. Let it be his decision along with the bishop, and church.

Brett, it is sad that people wrote things that are negative. David is still a kid and this week was not his best week and maybe his father was having a stress attack, but you can see the love and support and that shows through with his step-mother also. The media is so eager to find the flaws and so if someone is talking to their child with less patience than normal, then it will get blown out of porportion. I mean really, how much fun it is for the media to have these two kids, that we know of, that don't smoke and drink and cuss and play around and so forth, and the worst part, they are both so very likable. And from the spiritual perspective of things, I do not believe that it was a coincidence that David and Brooke both are in the top 12 this same time, I think that they are blessed to have one another there. I would be very interested to know if they have developed a brother/sister bond?

I watch American Idol and had not even heard about the "Dad" thing. We all know what the tabloids are about. Don't worry, any normal person could tell that the boy is loved and cared for.

he's a nice kid, but really seemed intimidated last week. I think the Irish girl Carly is the superior singer. I'll pick her to win. David is okay, just needs more expereience

David is a true talent. My hope for him is that he makes the kind of life he wants to make regarding school, his music, his career, possible missions. Speaking more selfishly as a fan, I'll say this: he has a ton of fans, not all of whom share his (proported) religious beliefs. Dare I hope that he will share his joy without being too specific, as he has done thus far?

Perhaps it's none of my business.
Regardless, I wish him every good thing.

Nice article. Fun to read the words of a proud grandpa.

While I agree that Carly has a fantastic voice, Nice Kid, personality will win the competition. David, Jason and Brooke come across as genuine, sensitive and sincere - the kind you'd like to hang out with because they make you happy just to be around. It's so refreshing to watch someone you *like* performing. I just hope their popularity won't make them fodder for the tabloid mentality that wants to pull them down.

Yes...Yes...Yes!!! Brooke White and David A. have a wonderful brother/sister relationship...David's mom told me this last Thursday. We even re-watched the Weds night eliminations and when Ryan Seacrest tells David he's safe...Brooke gives David a hug and you can hear her say something like; "Now go sit down"...we laughed so hard. Lupe (David's Mom) said Brooke treats David just like a little brother. Very protective! She said really "everyone has been treating David great"! Good to hear!!! Go David!

Thanks for the article, It was nice to hear a little history of David. What a great kid he is !!

He certainly has more talent than most of the popular singers today. I say give him his shot. I loved that grey haired guy. He was exciting to watch. His performances separated him. This kid tho is a singer. vamos archuleta.

YOU: "He has ranked first in the "American Idol" popular vote in every round." Nice try but the auditing firm does not release those numbers.

ME: The auditing firm does not release numbers but they can probably give the rankings - numbers and rankings are two different things, in case you did not realize! LOL!

I'm a fifty-something grandmother of three and I've watched AI every year except the first. I'm a big voter, until now. I just love Brooke and David and I won't do anything to promote them getting into a business that has a high potential of ruining their lives. I've seen too many other casualties. I like them too much to vote for them. I'm watching, but not voting.

O come on Idaokie. The world is full of wickedness. Should we keep our kids inside the house all the time simply because we want to protect? Let's keep voting for David and Brooke. They believe that they are strong enough to be more of a good influence on others than for others to be a bad influence on them.

David Archuleta is the real thing. There are few people out there like him. He is one of the kindest, most lovable people I know of. For those who can only watch him on TV, the humble personality you see on the television screen is the real, everyday David his closest friends see.

FYI-for locals (or anyone who wants to travel), I heard that Murray High is having a special Idol night at the school this Tuesday. Perhaps someone else can confirm this? Having all the David fans in one group will add to the excitement and fun of cheering for him.

GO DAVID!!

I am just so inspired by him and his great musically talented soul. David just needs to keep going for what he believes in! If singing is his thing(which it is) he should go for it. The world is tough and wicked by him doing great in this competition he is showing a great example to everyone.

Hey the "other" David...I know Murray High is sponsoring a "David Archuleta" night this Tuesday evening around 6:30 pm...I believe they're watching the show and I think that several Media Members(Local and National)will be attending this event! I'll be there with my family...what a blast it will be!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks Brett! We're all pulling for him and anxious to see him bounce back from last week. I heard it's going to be a second week of Lennon/McCartney and I have no doubt he'll be back in form tomorrow and impressing the world!!!

I LOVE DAVID ARCHULETA!!!!!

To Brett or others who know David's family. Please tell their family just how proud we are of them and how much we admire their love and support of their son. It is every parent's wish to help their children achieve their dreams and it is obvious that they have done a great job in doing so. As a parent of six very different children, I know that it can be tricky trying to make sure they all have what they need, but David's parents have obviously done a great job. I keep coming back to, "By their fruits, ye shall know them." (Matt. 7:20) Just look at him! Anyone who gets to know David and what he's made of will know that a great deal of that can be attributed to his parents who nurtured and taught him and raised him to be a light in a very dark world. Thank you for your example.

GOD love you grampa Archuleta,for loving your grandson like you do. Please sir,please watch out for David when the scamers come by to
take his life away from him. I pray for David's protection often.
The music industry can be so appealing and lead you to an emotionally lost feeling like a death. Please watch out for David and his career. GOD Love you and your family. GOD protect David.

I am a returned missionary and an active member of the Church but I can't imagine how it would be a good thing for David to go on a mission. Think of the good he can do by doing what he does best--singing. By not dissappearing from the worldwide spotlight, he could shed positive light on the Church, be a humble and righteous example to the troubled youth of our nation, and could open many doors for the missionaries. I am sure you all have met at least one "Donny Osmond member," people whose interest in the church started with a young, good-looking Mormon singer from Utah. (Sound familiar?) He would be great missionary and the decision will of course be his. But my opinion is he could do a lot more good by not going.

Trashed out entertainers aren't victims of the business, they just don't have good values. People are brought down by pride from much lower perches.

KC and Everyone...I can't wait to speak to Jeff (David's Dad) tonight! He's with David in California and he will be "thrilled" to see such nice things that you have said! I'm really serious...this will be fantastic for him to read everyone's comments (especially what I just read from KC). It is so hectic down there and this will be exactly what he and David (really the entire family) will love to hear!!! I will pass on all these comments to them. Thanks to everyone for your kind words...I've been waiting for such a wonderful article and such amazing comments like these! It will mean the world to them...Jeff will be very excited!!! Thanks again...Go big "D"!!!