God has really blessed and shown His directing and guiding throughout the process of moving to Europe these past few months. I never would have anticipated moving forward in this direction, but that’s when you know God is leading. For those of you considering doing ministry in Europe, I’d like to suggest a great way to get your foot in the door. Go as a student. And here’s the reasons why:
1. Visa’s are easier to get.
Getting a visa as a missionary has become very difficult and expensive in Europe. If you fill out the wrong form or file it the wrong way, you could jeopardize you chance of getting in for many years. But, if you go in as a student, the process is much simpler and cheaper. One thing I’ve noticed as I do research for post graduation, several countries allow you a year after graduation to look for a job before being booted out of the country!
2. Cost of living is cheaper.
Just as an example, for me to live with roommates in Amsterdam would cost at least $150,000 a year. By living on campus and eating their food, I’m 0nly out $18,000 a year. That’s a major savings when trying to start raising funds! The nice thing about Europe, especially near university campuses, you don’t need a car to get around. A simple bike and basket gets you around to most places you’d want to go. If the bike can’t get you there, public transportation can get your anywhere else you need to go.
3. Strengthen your gifts.
Not sure if anyone else feels this way, but I could sure use a little refreshing and sharpening of the gifts after doing ministry for several years after college. The experience that now comes to the table while learning brings new perspective and questions. There have been several occasions I felt very unprepared for situations that came up and only through the grace and power of God did I make it through. Going over and studying helps build up your toolbox and sharpens the tools you already have.
4. Great way to connect.
If you know God is leading you overseas and have a general idea of where, going over and spending a few years before jumping on full time can help you get connected in several ways. First, spending a few years in a country helps you learn the culture and language. Which leads to more effective ministry. And most mission boards want you to spend a couple years doing nothing but learning the language and culture, so why not already have that experience before even talking to a mission board. Second, you don’t have to commit to one type of ministry just yet. Throughout your time as a student, you can get to know the people in the area and work with several different churches and missionaries. It’s a great way to see how your gifts can be used to be the hands and feet of God. Knowing more specifically how and where God is leading makes it easier when trying to find an organization or mission board to join after graduation. Third, you may learn by getting involved that particular area is not where God would want you but where you would want to go. On a personal note, I’ve learned my gifts and personality would fit better in a European setting than in South Africa. I’m so glad God knows what’s best for me and closed things off to head south of the equator.
So there you have it. My opinion on why studying in Europe for a few years makes a great way to explore doing missions in Europe long term. Please feel free to comment and ask questions. Let me know your thoughts on the idea.
