ChinaSource: “Preparing for cross-cultural ministry”

Rec­om­men­da­tions from a Family Counselor

1. Set up a solid support system before you leave and on the mission field.

There is no con­tra­dic­tion between faith and prepa­ra­tion. The longer you plan to stay on a mission field, the more you need a support group to pray for the needs and uphold you when you face spir­i­tual warfare. They can also provide emo­tional support so that you will not feel lonely. Find people in your church who know you well and would like to be an advo­cate, encour­ager, and sup­porter for workers—singles and couples. For those arriv­ing on the field, build support groups. Look for other mis­sion­ar­ies in the area to be peer care­givers. Make friends with local people.