Ask a Missionary - Catch The Fire

Does the mission have plans to move nationals into
positions of authority?
Is the mission developing institutions and entities that
can be supported nationally?
Are national leaders expected to just carry on the pattern
the missionaries have established, or are they expected
to lead with their own vision? Are they empowered to
do so?
8. How does the agency work with other denominations,
ministries, mission organizations, and others in the mission
setting?
9. What are their philosophies on and approach to member
care and crisis management?
10. What provision is made for missionaries’ children? How
and where are they to be educated?
11. What orientation is given to missionaries before they go to
their place of service? What counsel and support are given
when they return to their home country?
12. What provision is made for missionaries’ continuing education?
Are study leaves encouraged?
13. How much language preparation does the agency allow
the missionary candidate to have?
14. What does the organization say are its weaknesses?
(This gives insight into their openness toward change and
whether they have a healthy self-awareness in a need for
growth.)
Don’t forget the local church. From the beginning of your selection
process, seek leadership and counsel from your local church
and pastor. Set up times to regularly meet, pray, and discuss the
process with your church’s leadership.
Answer from Jack Voelkel.
AGENCIES: Researching the Options | 61