How to Become a Missionary in Africa

Becoming a missionary is a life-changing experience. It involves sacrifice, the ability and willingness to change and put aside fears and prejudices, and a great desire to help others. Nowhere are these things more starkly displayed than in the countries of Africa. African countries are in great need of people willing to give their time and money to work as missionaries. If you would like to become one of those people, get ready for the hardest--and most exciting--time of your life.

Things You'll Need

• Birth certificate for passport
• Contact information for a doctor for immunizations
• Financial support

Instructions

1. Decide on what kind of work you want to do. Missionaries range from volunteers that work in orphanages, to teachers, to people who train for years to learn a specific language and culture then move in and live with a tribal group. Also, decide how long you want to work as a missionary.

2. Find a supporting organization that works in Africa. These organizations will help you get your necessary documents, immunizations and other items in order before you travel to Africa. Many organizations are specifically for certain types of mission work in certain countries, which is why you need to decide on your mission goals first. Use the links in the Resources section below to find some missionary support organizations that work in Africa.

3. Raise your finances. Once you have been accepted by a missionary organization, you will need to raise the funds that will pay for your trip. The organization will help you with this, but it will probably be suggested that you should solicit funds from family, friends and your church.

4. Do your homework. As you work to raise funds, also work to learn more about the country in Africa you will be visiting. What are their customs? What types of items will be available, and what should you bring with you? Make a list of things you will need to bring.

5. Get your paperwork in order. You will need to get a passport and immunizations recommended for whichever country in Africa you will be working in. You will also need to get a visa. For links that help you with these things, see the Resource section below.

Tips & Warnings

• Start early. It can take months to get a passport, immunizations and visas.

References

• Interview with missionaries serving in Africa

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• A list of mission organizations that work in African countries
• List of recommended and required vaccinations by country
• Visa requirements by country in Africa