When a missionary lands in their new culture, those first few weeks and months are critical to the trajectory of the years to come. With whom will they bond? What cultural nuances will they pick up on? What are their thoughts and methods regarding language learning?

Focusing on learning the local language and developing roots in the host culture can propel their ministry forward. However, spending the majority of their energy bonding with the expat community giving little attention to studying the language and culture can stifle ministry effectiveness and relationships with locals. 

The task of learning another language will be one of the greatest challenges on the missions journey. 

As an alternative to classroom studies, methods such as GPA (Growing Participator Approach) and LAMP (Language Acquisition Made Practical) have been developed to more reflect the way our minds were created to absorb language as children. Students learn from a native speaker, beginning with useful words and phrases in context as they are naturally spoken instead of manufacturing them through grammatical knowledge. Often these methods are more effective for long-term retention, and they inherently provide ways for developing relationships in the community beginning day one. 

There is great potential for the entire community to act as a guide, gently leading the newcomer through the process and watching a practical example of God’s grace. Over time, language and culture aptitude opens doors, creates hospitality, and ultimately gives pathways for the Gospel to travel through communities.

Global Frontier Missions gives Missionary Training School students a chance to study how culture and tongue are intricately connected, discuss bonding with their host community, and learn about different methods of language acquisition. Our location in Atlanta is a uniquely diverse setting that offers many opportunities. Our experienced staff partner with native speakers and lead students through hands-on practice with introductory language learning.

We want our students to be well prepared and confident to step into their new culture, build authentic relationships, and stay for the long haul.

Written by John Trotter

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