In September, a group of Mission to the World (MTW) missionaries completed Launch, MTW’s five-day training for those who have been approved to enter the mission field. Launch is the first of three training experiences that missionaries complete before embarking on their journeys.

During Launch, missionaries learn about the MTW culture and the tools they will need as they prepare for the mission field. Much of the training focuses on the skills and mindset needed for raising support. Missionaries also learn about how to care for themselves spiritually during this period of transition.

“We firmly believe that raising support is an opportunity to minister to the church in the U.S.,” says Jennifer Miller, MTW Asia/Pacific team manager, “so we want missionaries to be well-trained in how to pursue churches and individuals as part of a relational invitation to participate in God’s kingdom building throughout the world and not merely asking for funds.” Miller taught several components of Launch pertaining to fundraising.

For Julie Costas, the five days of training often felt like drinking from a fire hose, but she appreciated her time connecting with fellow missionaries and the MTW staff, many of whom are former missionaries.

Costas said the training helped her feel more prepared for raising the funds she will need to join a church-planting team in Athens, Greece.

“I am excited to see how God will continue to confirm His call on my life by allowing me to be fully funded so that I can get on the field as soon as possible,” she said.