One month, but a hundred days… that’s how I’ve felt with all the Scriptural insight and personal application that we have been diving into here at Missionary Training School (MTS). As someone who was raised in the church and has served in local church leadership for the last eight years, I can confidently say that I’ve been to the trainings, attended the conferences, and sat in on informational meetings about the “how to’s of missions.” Then why MTS? Unlike what I have experienced before, MTS offers a hands-on atmosphere with a “come along and learn with us” environment. That’s what has been missing from my journey so far! Here’s a sneak peek into what really goes on in the five-month missions program.

Classroom Discussion

Here’s where we take it to the white board with practical application of our weekly learning. In the more intimate setting of couches versus desks, practicum is the space made for us to process the process. This is where we are equipped with the next steps of sharing the gospel, making disciples, and building a community of faithful followers of Jesus. 

The component that is currently offering me the best challenge is our regular Disciple Making Team (DMT) times. In small groups, we hit the streets twice a week ready to see strangers become friends. I love the “watch and learn,” on-the-go training that takes place in the neighborhoods of this diverse refugee resettlement city. DMT times also equip us with team building opportunities where we are emboldened to step out and have to rely on one another as we go.

Outside of the structured ministry time, we are also provided a variety of opportunities to further serve in our community. Our 6-9 weekly hours of personal ministry service times can be spent partnering with youth programs, working alongside local believers, or getting involved in community development. My favorite is the English Language Learning programs here in Clarkston; I love being able to use my God given gifts to teach those in need and to build relationships along the way!

Coaching and Small Groups

Accountability and progress monitoring are often what lacks from just attending a weekend training or missions conference. In MTS, we are each paired with a coach for one-on-one discipleship and then meet in small groups weekly. Both of these incredible resources provide the depth of relationship building and life-on-life fellowship that fosters real growth within each of the students.