Ask a Missionary - Catch The Fire

A:
Look at the advantages of agencies of all
sizes, and most of all, find God’s fit for you.
I suggest you start by looking not at an organization, but at
what, where, or who interests you. For instance, if you’re interested
in ministering to Muslims, start by looking at organizations that
specialize in work with Muslims, such as Frontiers. If you’re a nurse,
start by looking at organizations involved in medical missions or
community development work.
Sure, many good organizations that don’t specialize in nursing
or Muslims can still put you, your interests, and your expertise to
very good kingdom work. But more important than the size of an
organization is how it fits with God’s plan for you in this season of
ministry.
Answer from Paul, who has served for five years with MDat International and
shorttermmissions.com.
A: Smaller may be better.
There are so many excellent agencies that it can be hard to
know where to start looking. Size is one way to get started narrowing
your choices.
Three advantages of a larger agency include the following:
1. They are usually older—more established and mature.
2. They will usually have more opportunities worldwide.
3. They often have regional setups that will connect you with
other missionaries once on the field.
Three advantages of a smaller agency include the following:
1. They are usually more personal—you get to know the staff
in a more personal way.
2. They can be more flexible in helping you pursue a specific
ministry. A larger organization for the sake of efficiency
may tend to have molds that you need to fit into.
64 | Ask a Missionary