Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
- How old do I have to be to join OM?
- What qualifications do I need?
- How much will it cost?
- Will I be able to find financial support for myself?
- How long can I join for?
- What countries can I go to?
- What do I need to join?
- What part does prayer play?
- What orientation is given?
- What kind of work is done in OM?
How old do I have to be to join OM?
For most opportunities you need to be at least 18 years of age at the time of joining. For some, you need to be older.
What qualifications do I need?
You need not have any formal training to join us. OM does provide on-the-job training for its workers. However, OM also welcomes people who have formal qualifications—we have many opportunities where professional training and experience (eg. accounting, marine qualifications, IT, etc.) are crucial.
How much will it cost?
In OM we look to the Lord to supply our needs, both as individuals and as a mission. Depending on your country of choice, you will have to raise a monthly support figure that is set by each country. Then there are extra one time costs like conference fees, airfares, and in certain countries, set-up costs.
Will I be able to find financial support for myself?
Yes, we believe that raising personal support can be achieved—thousands of missionaries have seen God provide for them over and over again. Seeing support coming in can also provide a very definite confirmation that we are in God's will. We will be happy to help you learn how support is raised, and will provide you with some valuable tools to do this.
How long can I join for?
- Short-term trips vary from 1 week up to 6 months (with an average of 3 to 4 weeks including training conference).
- For long-term trips that have the special training element, the standard commitment is between 1 and 2 years, dependent on the field to which you apply.
- Positions using your professional experience vary – anything from a few weeks to a lifetime!
What countries can I go to?
OM works throughout Europe, Central and South Asia, Middle East, Africa, the Americas—about 110 countries in all! We also have a vital ship ministry.
What do I need to join?
You can join OM if you...
- are 18 years of age or older.
- know the Lord Jesus as your personal saviour.
- have a desire to serve Him and reach people with the Gospel.
- are sent by your local church.
- satisfy the application process in your home country, including being able to read, write and speak English.
There may be other requirements depending on the field to which you will go and the work you wish to do. Please contact us for more details.
What part does prayer play?
Prayer is an important part of OM team life. It is prayer time that forms the basis of our work and evangelism. We want you to live in the reality of intercession as you see God's power transform lives and remove obstacles.
What orientation is given?
Orientation starts before you leave your home country. Your entry point to OM will be at one of the Global Orientation (GO) conferences held in Europe in September and January. At the conference you will have the opportunity to meet others joining your team and some of the leaders who you will be working with. There will be more orientation given during this time.
Field-based training is to equip you for effective service through language study, ministry training, etc. This is an ongoing part of your time on OM and will take the form of both formal teaching and daily mentoring.
What kind of work is done in OM?
- Evangelism Teams
There are options throughout the world plus of course the many possibilities for serving on one of our ships. Wherever you are in the world, you will use evangelistic methods including drama, open air meetings, friendship building, literature distribution, videos etc. You may also be part of a long-term church-planting situation, or in some cases work in a "tentmaking" role in order to spread the Gospel.
- Special Ministry Teams
Serving people in special need by combining evangelism with practical help through development projects, work among the poor, ministry to refugees, etc. Please note: Opportunities in this track are limited to a small number of OM fields. Preference will be given to those considering longer-term service on those fields. Other candidates may be asked to consider another option.
- Vital Support Teams
Increase the effectiveness of OM's global ministry by joining an OM support team and serve through administration and secretarial work, media and graphics, recruiting and pastoral care, financial development and accountancy, technical services including computer people, professional seamen for the ships, mechanics and maintenance people.
