Responsibilities: 

• Invest time and effort in language and cultural acquisition, developing relationships, and prayer (these responsibilities continue beyond the first two years of official language study) 
• Serve in partnership with the national church in ministries of evangelism and discipleship 
• Serve the surrounding community through practical outreach (such as teaching English, acts of service, tutoring, ministering to families, helping the poor, or other creative community-oriented ministries) 
• Mentor Bible institute students in their involvement in practical ministry settings (a secondary responsibility) 
• Occasionally teach in various settings, such as church meetings, retreats, or the regional Bible institute (for those with a corresponding master’s degree) 

Ministry Location Information: 

This multi-religious setting is both a source of national pride and frustration. Politics and society are deeply influenced by the history and interaction of the different faith groups, and no one group is decisively in control. There are multiple forms of Christianity (all together, still a minority of the population), and there are multiple forms of the majority religion. While there are tensions between the groups, there is also significant religious freedom. The evangelical church is small—less than 1 percent—but the religious freedoms allow for active ministry. 

Over 1.5 million people live in and around the capital city, and an influx of refugees has further stretched the available resources and public services. Economic and financial crises have caused deterioration in living conditions in recent years. There are regular shortages of electricity, water, public education, and affordable housing. Most necessities are usually available, but hyperinflation has pushed many products and services beyond the reach of much of the population. 

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 
• Preferred recognized master’s degree in Bible, theology, or ministry (MDiv or ThM preferred) 

Both Vocational and Clergy Tracks 

• Completion of Alliance Polity course 
• A recognized bachelor’s degree  
• A minimum Modern Language Aptitude Test (MLAT) score of 80 
• Experience or training in at least one area of specialized community-oriented ministry such as teaching English, counseling, health and fitness, relief and development, etc. 
• Experience leading people to Christ and discipling new believers individually or in groups 
• Experience with one-on-one (and/or couple to couple) relational ministry 

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. 

Quality language schools are available in the capital city and can be supplemented with private tutors or language helpers. Programs can be altered to fit the needs of individual language learners and for particular ministry opportunities. It will be expected that some portion of the two years of full-time study be spent in the formal, written form of the language. 

Health Considerations: 

The climate is moderate, with hot, humid summers and cool, rainy winters. Pollution, dust, and mold can be problematic for people with breathing difficulties. Many people buy bottled water to drink instead of the tap water, unless it is boiled. There are several excellent hospitals in the capital city. Pharmacies provide access to common medications, but sometimes certain medications need to be brought from outside. 

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. 

Both husband and wife should be engaged in relational ministry, communicating the gospel in word and deed, and helping new believers grow in their faith. It is important for couples to be comfortable visiting local homes as well as welcoming people into their own home for meals and visits. 

Children’s Education: 

Several quality private and international schools are available locally. Families also have the option to send older children to a Christian boarding school.