trying to accomplish, it makes perfect sense why LDS missionaries would be selected (I also see why the filmmakers chose such) and it hints at him having done so before (with possibly other religions).

I also like how the missionaries were depicted. They are the protagonists designed to be rooted for. They were quite likable and it showed how they can be poorly treated by others (not just the antagonist) and misunderstood.

Also, a movie depicting themes or events doesn’t mean it’s an endorsement by the moviemakers of such actions, as many seem to erroneously assume when they’re turned off by a movie.