“Where does Jesus send us? There are no borders, no limits: he sends us to everyone! Go, do not be afraid, and serve!”
–Pope Francis, World Youth Day 2013
Qualifications
The call to mission is both a privilege and a responsibility rooted in our baptismal vows and nurtured by the Holy Spirit. We look for certain qualities and skills in selecting candidates such as:
1. Lay persons of faith in the Catholic tradition with the capacity and dedication to deepen their relationship with God. Applicants must also express a call to mission and a willingness to incorporate Franciscan values into their mission experience.
2. Individuals must be able to give a minimum of two years of service overseas.
3. Single, married, or divorced — generally between the ages of 22 and 62 (without dependents).
4. Prior cross-cultural experience and/or a second language are valuable, though not absolutely required.
5. A willingness to serve in various ministries according to a person’s interests and expertise. Past missioners have worked in a wide range of ministries such as: healthcare, teaching, pastoral ministry, social work, community development, small Christian community animation, and agriculture. We offer a variety of opportunities for persons with diverse sets of skills.
6. A resident of the United States or Canada.
Application Process
Now accepting applications for Fall 2019!
The application process is one of mutual discernment; while you continue to discern your call to mission and learn more about Franciscan Mission Service and our unique brand of mission in the Franciscan tradition, our staff will continue to discern whether our program fits your God-given gifts and talents and where best to utilize those gifts and talents in the placements we staff.
The goal is not simply to get accepted, but to more fully understand FMS’ mission and model of service, and to challenge you to spend time thinking about your individual motivations and dreams for mission. Information on discernment and some helpful questions can be found here.
The application process consists of 4 phases which are as follows:
Phase 5: Three-Month Formation Program.
The final phase of discernment for both the potential missioner and FMS is the three-month formation program. During this in depth program, the individual and organization may find that international mission is not a good fit for the potential missioner. This is a rare occurrence, but we ask candidates to be discerning throughout all stages of the process, as the staff of FMS does the same. Our 2019 Formation Program is set to begin in late August 2019.
At any time during this process, we are happy to connect you with Returned Missioners or missioners in the field.
