Free Republic

American Idol runner-up David Archuleta will take a break from his singing career to serve a two-year proselytizing mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The contestant from the 2007-2008 season made the announcement during a Christmas concert Monday in downtown Salt Lake City, according to the Deseret News. The 20-year-old Miami native, who grew up in Murray, Utah, said he’s not quitting music, but feels a strong call to serve the church. A video of the concert on Archuleta’s website shows him overwhelmed with emotion and crying as he talks about his plans. The crowd screams...

David Archuleta hasn't let success spoil him. Even though he recently wrapped up his first headlining tour and his self-titled first CD debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 (and is nearing platinum status), he's still just a kid from Murray, Utah. "I was amazed at how many people came to my concerts," Archuleta observed during an interview Wednesday. "I knew people liked me on 'American Idol,' but I didn't think they'd care to come see me sing at my own show." Salt Lake fans will get a chance to see the "American Idol" runner-up at an event...