| FAQ (Long-term) |
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How long can I go? We provide many options for our long-term missionaries. Commitments start at 10 months and can last as long as a lifetime! Most teams ask that you commit for two years, however there are teams with options for one year, and even a few for six months. We will do our best to accommodate the length of time you are able to commit. Who does OM accept for long-term missions? OM is composed of people from many national, ethnic and denominational backgrounds. We are looking for faithful, not perfect, followers of Jesus who desire to join with others in reaching the unreached around the world. Those wanting to join OM should meet these requirements:
We are only able to accept applications from American citizens and US permanent residents (green card holders). All other nationalities need to visit the international OM website to find the OM office nearest you. Do I have to go to Bible school? OM does not require any Bible school or seminary courses to join. Some OM teams have training programs that run alongside the hands-on ministry you are doing. These are an effective way to grow in your understanding of missions and ministry at the same time. OM has places for those with Bible school or seminary training, as well! Your knowledge and experience can play a vital role in shaping ministries, providing leadership or discipling the next generation. What training is available for me? As an agency, OM has years of experience in training and teaching. Training often starts before you go overseas with a conference at OM USA. This week-long conference provides insight on topics such as raising support and studying the Bible on your own. There is also a conference in Europe for all new missionaries, providing further training on cross-cultural ministry, culture shock and team life. In addition, there are a few OM teams that have more of a training focus rather than a ministry focus. These teams are a great way to learn about OM, discover your spiritual gifts and get equipped for future ministry. If you are interested in learning more about these teams, let us know. Most people who stay in OM longer than two years will also have opportunities to attend training conferences on an international scale. We regularly evaluate our needs and seek to train people effectively in their areas of ministry and skill. Can I join long term with a friend? You are welcome to start the application process with a friend, but each application is handled on an individual basis. We cannot promise that you will be able to join the same team with your friend, because that is not our decision to make, but we will work with you and your friend to find the best possible ministries for each of you. What is the application process? Starting the application process is simple and begins with our online application. It takes about 45 minutes to complete and is a great way for you to meet some of the people at OM, and for us to meet you. Filling out this application does not commit you to going overseas. It is simply the first step in the process of us getting to know one another. How long does the application process take? Each person has a unique situation, requiring customized care and decisions. Completing the actual paperwork for the application usually takes about one month. You will then be invited to one of three conferences at the OM USA office in the Atlanta area. After this conference and your acceptance into OM, the final stage of preparation is raising support. Some people are able to leave as soon as three months after they apply. For others, this process can take up to a year or even two, depending on current jobs, housing and family needs. Every person is unique, and we desire to do what is best for both you and the field, or country, where you are going. What do I do if I have debt? Debt from student loans are allowed. While you are overseas, you are still responsible for meeting the minimum payments on your loan. We encourage you to find a friend or family member to pay this minimum amount on your behalf while you are gone. We are happy to give you more information about how this works. We encourage those with other kinds of debt (such as from credit cards) to first pay off their debt before pursuing overseas missions. Why do I need to raise support? OM is a faith-based mission agency. We want to allow people the opportunity to be involved in advancing God’s Kingdom through giving to someone they personally know. Raising support is an incredible blessing as we see God work through others to supply for our needs. For those going on long-term assignments, OM provides training materials on how to build a support team. In some cases, providing for your trip personally is also an option. How do I raise support? Building a support team can be a challenging and stretching experience. Through intentional prayer, authentic Bible study and relevant training materials, we seek to equip people with the tools to build a successful support team. Raising support is about allowing our friends, family and churches the opportunity to be involved in advancing God’s Kingdom by giving to someone they personally know. How much support do I need? Each OM team has personalized budgets based on the cost of living within that country. OM USA works with the leaders on the team to establish a personalized budget for you that provides a moderate standard of living, appropriate health insurance and any training expenses. Once you have been accepted in OM, we will develop the appropriate budget based on your country, medical, travel and living needs. |
