Below are standard expectations we have for any new Missionary. Our mission calls us to be radical disciples, and below are expectations we have to commit ourselves to the mission of being a transformational people who live deep relationship with God and with one another. Some of the expectations may be new concepts, so we encourage you to not only read about them, but have open conversations with a Missionary you trust.
24 Month Commitment
Normally, Missionaries serve at at least two years with SPO. Experience has proven that it takes a year to get comfortable and confident in the school and culture of the students that Missionaries are working with. It gives room for trust to be created and then built upon. A two-year service provides the opportunity for the Missionary to develop their skills and the ability to dive into the mission unreservedly. This also provides greater stability for both the Missionary and the mission at large.
Putting Vocational Pursuits on Hold for first 12 Months of Mission
We ask Missionaries to not pursue any vocational discernment during their first year of mission. We want there to be freedom to pursue vocations at the proper time. Pursuing these require a significant amount of time and attention. At the same time, a Missionary’s first year of mission requires a significant amount of time and attention in building new relationships with students and staff, and it takes time to adjust to the lifestyle of a Missionary. From experience, moving forward in vocational discernment during your first year as an SPO Missionary can take away from both the ability to effectively serve in the mission and to actively pursue one’s vocation (e.g., starting a relationship, entering a discernment house, getting engaged, etc.)
Raising Financial Support to Fund the Costs Associated with Your Years of Service
Missionaries are expected to build and cultivate a mission partner support team. We view MPD (Mission Partner Development) as a privilege and as a ministry: a precious opportunity to invite your friends and family to participate with you and with SPO in the New Evangelization. MPD is a ministry in itself, and those who partner with you on mission become more inspired to love and follow Christ through your support raising ministry with them. We will train and support you all along the way. SPO provides ongoing one-on-one coaching for all Missionaries.
Serving at Any Location
Missionaries are sent to various locations where SPO is present. SPO is a national organization with needs on various campuses. After much discernment, SPO will assign locations to each Missionary. While we take into consideration personal preference, we try to fit the gifts of each Missionary with the needs of each campus. The questions we ask are always “What is best for the Missionary?” as well as “What best supports the mission?”
Start Date
Missionaries are required to attend staff training tentatively scheduled May 24th - July 3rd. This is the time to meet all of the Missionaries, receive training, and find out your new teams! The remainder of your summer will be dedicated to full-time MPD efforts.