Where does OM work
From Albania to Zambia - in fact, there are OM teams in over 110 countries and OM's ship, Logos Hope, reaches into many more. Some teams are long-established while others are still in the pioneer stage.
What does OM do?
Many teams engage in evangelism and church-planting, especially in regions where there are few Christians. Encouraging and equipping local churches is an integral part of our work; one way we do this is by providing quality Christian literature through the educational book fairs on our ships. Some teams serve people in need by sharing the love of Jesus through development projects, work among the poor, ministry to refugees, teaching English, etc. Our desire is the transformation of communities - materially, socially and spiritually.
People can also serve in "home office" resource bases or on-field support teams, using their skills in administration, IT, media, recruiting and pastoral care, accountancy, etc. Others, such as professional seamen on the ships or maintenance staff bring essential technical skills and help keep the whole OM ministry functioning effectively.
Who Can Join?
If you:
- Have known the Lord Jesus as your personal Saviour for at least a year
- Have a desire to serve Him and reach people with the Gospel
- Are sent by your local church
- Satisfy the application process
- Raise the necessary financial support
- There is probably a place where you could serve somewhere on OM!
Some of our teams do have restrictions on who they can take. Your physical health may also limit the opportunities available. Age restrictions vary from team to team, but most teams take people as young as 18 and many will take those aged 65 and above. Most teams, but not all, can accommodate families. In some cases, we can only take single men or single women (often because of limited accommodation). There are some opportunities for those with disabilities, depending on the nature and degree of disability.
How long can I join for?
This depends on the field. For some it has to be a minimum two year commitment; on others one year, or in some cases as little as 6-7 months. The sheet of information on minimum age, time and finance requirements has some details – if you need further information or clarification, please ask.
All our fields need long-term workers. Some, after completing their initial commitment want to remain, or move to another field. With consultation with your field, OM UK and your church, this is all possible. Others leave to study, getting professional or missionary training before returning to OM. Many people join with a long-term view in mind who already have proven gifts and abilities that fit into a long-term ministry.
Will I be trained?
Many of OM's jobs involve "On the Job" training. This includes such elements as language learning, study of other religions, local culture, evangelistic methods and more but will also incorporate Bible teaching and corporate prayer. Some teams have a structured programme which combines discipleship training with hands-on mission experience. Working with OM is an opportunity for God to use experiences - many exciting, some unusual, a few difficult - to develop spiritual maturity and effective Christian service.
When can I join?
People join through our Global Orientation 'GO' conference in January or August, although it is possible to join UK-based teams at other times. Applicants are required to attend a three-day preparation seminar 'Getting into Gear' in April, June or October; contact us for more details of this seminar and our application procedure. The application process takes some time so we’d like to receive your application three months prior to the conference through which you wish to join.
What does it cost?
Every individual serving in Operation Mobilisation is asked to raise sufficient finances to cover their living costs, travel costs, etc. Typically, an OM worker is financially supported by individuals and churches who donate money to OM towards their support.
How do individuals go about raising the finance?
Prayer is part of the process - we look to the Lord to supply our needs both as individuals and as a mission. As we pray for our needs the Lord prompts people to give. But we also believe it is right to ask sending churches and other Christians to financially support those going into mission. We will provide some training in raising support at the ‘Getting into Gear’ orientation weekend and can also make literature on the subject available to you.
You will need to cover any medical costs associated with preparing to join OM, including the cost of any
vaccinations recommended for the field where you will work.
Are there any salaried positions within OM?
OM staff and workers are volunteers who raise financial support to cover allowances and other living costs.