Joining Columban Lay Mission.

Could you be a Columban Lay Missionary?

Reflect on the following statements?

'I am on a faith journey. I would like to travel with others on that journey'
'I am committed to social justice.'
'I relate well to people who are from a different from me.'
'I am open to other cultural traditions'
'I am open to new learning experiences and I am flexible.'
'I would like to live more simply.'

Do you fulfil the basic requirements?
Lay Missionaries...

* Are committed Christians of the Catholic Tradition.
* Relate their faith to all aspects of their life.
* Have had some experience of pastoral work i.e. in their parish, their occupation or through voluntary activities.
* Are aged between 23 and 40 years of age.
* Are able to make a three year overseas commitment.
* Are able to participate in a six month course in the UK to prepare for their overseas assignment.
* Are single or married couples with dependent children of pre-school age.
* Are in good physical and psychological health.
* Are willing to learn a new language and cross barriers of culture and belief.
* Identify with the Columban response to the Gospel invitation to mission.

How do I take the first steps into mission?

1. Contact the Lay Mission Co-ordinator. See contact details.
2. Attend a 'Come and See' weekend in order to find out more.
3. Enter a discernment process to help you to decide whether this commitment is for you. The Lay Mission programme would accompany you during this time and offer various ways to help your discernment.
4. Complete an application form and supply contact details of referees.
5. If your application is successful, you will be invited to a further discernment weekend with other potential candidates and members of the Lay Mission Co-ordinating Team (LMCT). A formal interview will take place on the final day.
6. A health check/psychological assessment/ CRB clearance will be arranged.
7. The LMCT will inform you of their decision on your joining Columban Lay Mission.