Information for Missionary Candidates/Application Process

Just to give you guys some idea of what it takes to "be a missionary" through the International Mission Board, I thought I would list some of the steps we have to take in order to be appointed.

1. seminary training

2. letters/calls/conferences/interviews with IMB along with evangelism and witnessing training

3. receive candidate consultant - health/wellness/dental checks; children's educational/developmental evaluation

4. life sketch, statement of beliefs, autobiography, background check and reference lists submitted

5. in-depth interviews

6. selection of overseas missions assignment

7. attend candidate conference in Richmond, which includes medical examinations, small groups, personal interviews, research job match, meetings with IMB staff, wellness workshops and homeschooling seminars (Briggs is not allowed to go to this with us)

8. finalize all written materials (life sketches, autobiographies, etc).; reference questionnaires; final medical clearance for family

9. meet with trustees and staff of IMB

10. briefing on missionary service and orientation

11. appointment service

12. stateside orientation

13. language school abroad

14. departure

We are told that this process should go along with Aaron's schooling.  It will take at least one year to 18 months.