Things You'll Need:
- Language-learning books and/or software
- Money for airfare and living expenses
- Letters of recommendation
- Results of a physical exam
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Step 1
Anyone who is thinking about becoming a missionary needs to be sure about one thing--do you truly hear the call? Not everyone is cut out to be a missionary full-time. Missionary work can be difficult. You need to be strong physically and spiritually. You may be separated from your family and friends for some time. You may face a lot of physical hardship and personal rejection. Spend time in deep reflection to be absolutely positive you would like to make the commitment to missionary work.
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Step 2
Different denominations have different requirements for missionaries and differing organizations they use for mission work. Go to your local church's office and ask for information on becoming a missionary. Your church should be able to point you in the right direction. Many missionary organizations have age and health restrictions you will need to be aware of.
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Step 3
Try to contact other missionaries, especially if you are most interested in foreign missions. Talk to those who are or have been in the same country in which you are interested. Ask about their duties, living and working conditions, the people, the culture, the food and the languages.
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Step 4
If you desire to go to a country where they speak a different language than you do, start learning it. For example, if you want to go to Latin America, start learning Spanish.
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Step 5
Start fundraising. Many missionary organizations require you to raise a certain amount of money for airfare and living expenses before you can become a missionary. Missionaries do not usually earn salaries, and you will need money for travel, food, clothing and other necessities. You will also need money for your training.
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Step 6
Begin collecting your paperwork. Prospective missionaries need to fill out applications, submit personal essays and gather letters of recommendation. You may also have to submit the results of physical and psychological examinations.
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Step 7
Go to an information session or interview. Most missionary organizations host orientation sessions regularly. They will give you information about how they work, what they will require from you and may also want to conduct preliminary interviews. Whether an interview happens at orientation or at a later time, rest assured that at some time, you will be interviewed.
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Step 8
Finish your training. Missionary groups will always want you to attend some form of training before you are sent out into the field. Training may include courses in theology and the culture and language of foreign countries.
