Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I serve?
SAMS missionaries can serve anywhere from 1 year to career.
Are there age limitations?
As long as health permits SAMS missionaries can be from 19 to 100 years old.
How do I know when I am called?
SAMS is here to help you with that very important question. We will provide you with resources, an inquirers conference and suggestions for your home church to help you know how God is leading.
How long does it take to become a missionary?
That depends, but usually from the time a person inquires until they begin language school is about 18 months.
Are SAMS missionaries employed by SAMS?
Yes, but all our SAMS missionaries must raise their own support. SAMS provides a budget and of course, lots of training and support in finding prayer and financial partners.
Who does SAMS send?
SAMS sends those of the Anglican Tradition who are willing to work under the authority of the Bishops of Latin America and Spain.
Does SAMS provide benefits?
Yes, benefits such as life insurance, health insurance, children's educational benefits and retirement funds are all a part of a SAMS missionary budget.
What part does my church play in this?
SAMS exists to help local congregations send missionaries. Your local church will help you discern how God is leading. SAMS requires the participation of the local church in each missionary's application and sending.
How do I become a missionary?
Most start by phoning or emailing SAMS and then filling out a lengthy application. From there SAMS may invite you to a discernment conference. All SAMS missionaries must undergo several interviews including a psychological evaluation and theological evaluation. After approval of the application the next step is to be a SAMS candidate. Candidates are in the process of raising support and attending individualized training. After support is raised a candidate becomes a missionary as language and cultural training begins. Language training can take up to a year and then a missionary begins ministry.
What if I am not sure that God is calling me?
SAMS offers a program for interns. Interns usually serve for 1 month to 6 months. Each intern is paired with a SAMS missionary mentor and lives in local homes. Interns study language and culture as well as participate in a number of ministries. This helps the intern to look more in depth at missionary life and service.