Responsibilities: 

• Disciple 
• Engage in leadership development 
• Evangelize 
• Host and be hospitable 
• Network 

Ministry Location Information: 

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for historic architecture, Port wine, and vibrant cultural life. The climate features warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, with occasional cool spells even in summer. Life in Porto is generally affordable compared to Western Europe, with modest rent and utilities. Housing often lacks central heating and can feel cold and damp in winter. Portugal remains predominantly Roman Catholic (≈80 percent of population), though regular religious practice is low among many. Protestant and evangelical expressions are small minorities (<1 percent), and evangelical churches are few and often underdeveloped. Recent church-planting efforts in Porto reflect growing opportunities for gospel impact and need for discipling young believers. 

Characteristics of International Workers: 

• Spiritual maturity 
• Holistic health 
• Confirmation of call 
• Ministry experience 
• Education and work experience 
• Cross-cultural awareness 

Required Qualifications: 

Vocational Track  

• Completion of the World Perspectives Mission Course (minimum of certificate level) or equivalent  
• Minimum of two years of ministry experience 
• Minimum of two years of relevant work experience  

Clergy (Consecration & Ordination) Track  

• Completion of Alliance ordination/consecration   
• Completion of at least 30 hours of Bible/theology/ministry 
• Minimum of two years successful Alliance Licensed Ministry Experience  
• 15 hours of intercultural/missions studies  
• If married, one spouse must meet the clergy track requirements, and the other spouse must meet either the clergy OR vocational track requirements 

Both Vocational and Clergy Tracks 

• Completion of Alliance Polity course  
• A recognized bachelor’s degree  
• A minimum Modern Language Aptitude Test (MLAT) score of 35 
• Experience in relational evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development, particularly with young adults 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills—ability to connect authentically with young adults 
• A heart for multiplication and long-term impact through investing in future leaders 

Language Expectations: 

Language is an essential part of ministry. Those who do not know the language will attend a language study program. The goal will be to speak, read, and write the language at a functional level in order to mentor, teach, and train others. 

In the first two years on the field, new workers will study Portuguese in a combination of a formal in-class language school, private tutoring, studying at home, and practicing in the community. While language study will take priority during the first two years as international workers, you may begin to be involved in ministry during your second year.     

Health Considerations: 

Porto has a robust European medical infrastructure, both public and private, that should meet the needs of our workers.  

Expectations for Spouse: 

Spousal roles vary based on the spouse’s gifts, training, and abilities as well as the needs of the team. It is expected that both spouses will be meaningfully involved in meeting ministry objectives depending on the nature of family roles, children, etc. 

Children’s Education: 

There are excellent schooling options in Porto—both public and private in both Portuguese or English. Our current preference is that families first explore the available schools before considering homeschooling. While homeschooling (“Ensino Doméstico”) is legal in Portugal, it is strictly regulated, including the requirement that families seek prior authorization from their local school director, demonstrate that an adult with a university degree will oversee the teaching, and more. Black Forest Academy (BFA) in Kandern, Germany, is an excellent option for students in grades 9–12. BFA follows a North American curriculum, offers Advanced Placement courses, and serves a diverse international student body in a supportive residential environment.