Become Informed!

Read 

Read widely on mission topics and language-related subjects. Subscribe to a missions magazine. Keep an eye on what is happening in the world and in missions.

Read missionary biographies to learn from men and women who have already been where you want to go. Consider starting with John Wycliffe, Jim Elliot and Cameron Townsend. Pick up a copy of In Search of the Source, The Word Came with Power or other great Bible translation biographies at our Online Store.

Research Your Options

Check out different Bible translation organizations. Don't stop there. Ask questions!

• Attend mission conferences to meet representatives from different organizations.
• Ask your church which organizations they are working with already and get to know those organizations.
• Look into your church's missions committee and its policies.

What to Look For

There are many factors to think about when choosing a mission or Bible translation organization. Some considerations:

• Do you sense God calling you to a specific people group or area of the world? Does the organization serve in that area? 
• Do you share the organization's doctrinal beliefs and vision for Bible translation? 
• What is the organization's philosophy on cultural sensitivity? On national involvement in Bible translation? On denominational alliances? 
• Does the organization make provision for international membership?

Make Your Move

When it's time to apply to an organization, remember that each organization may have a different application process. These processes can be rather lengthy, so plan ahead if possible. Wondering if Wycliffe is right for you? Take the first step.

Don’t hold back now! God wants to launch people into His harvest fields for the gladness of the peoples of the earth in the greatness of God. God wants to use you to accomplish this!