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The Missionary Pathway

Children's Bible Ministries provides a structured, church-connected pathway for those sensing a call to missionary service. The Missionary Pathway is designed to help individuals discern God's calling, prepare spiritually and practically, and serve under biblical oversight in partnership with the local church.

Church Connection

Recognized and Sent by the Local Church

Missionary service begins with personal calling — but calling is confirmed in the context of the local church. CBM encourages prospective missionaries to:

  • Demonstrate faithful service in their local congregation
  • Exhibit spiritual maturity and doctrinal alignment
  • Show evidence of character, humility, and teachability
  • Seek counsel from local church leadership

CBM works alongside churches to ensure missionaries are trained, supported, and accountable throughout their service.

Is Your Church Exploring How to Send You?
The Process

Preparation and Evaluation

The Missionary Pathway includes intentional preparation and evaluation to ensure readiness for gospel ministry within the CBM context. Steps typically include:

  1. Initial Inquiry & ConversationReach out to CBM to begin an informal conversation about your sense of calling, background, and interest in ministry.
  2. Church RecommendationCBM works with your local church to understand your spiritual maturity, character, and readiness for ministry consideration.
  3. Short-Term ServiceMany prospective missionaries begin through a summer staff opportunity, internship, or mission trip to gain hands-on ministry experience.
  4. CBM Internship ProgramThe CBM Internship provides structured training, mentorship, and evaluation within a ministry context — the most common entry point for those pursuing long-term service.
  5. Ministry Placement & Partnership DevelopmentFollowing training and evaluation, CBM works with missionaries and their supporting churches to identify a ministry placement and build a support network.
  6. Long-Term Missionary ServiceMissionaries enter full-time service supported by the local church, CBM, and a team of prayer and financial partners.
Where You'll Serve

Ministry Opportunities Within the CBM Network

CBM missionaries serve in the United States and internationally. Where you serve is determined through prayer, gifting, opportunity, and ministry need.

Ministry opportunities may include both frontline and behind-the-scenes roles within the following contexts:

  • Bible clubs and Released Time Bible Education outreach programs
  • Camps and seasonal ministries
  • International missions through CBM affiliate networks
  • Administration, maintenance, hospitality, communications, and operations

Every role is centered on faithfully communicating God's Word and helping the next generation grow in faith.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where would I serve?

CBM missionaries serve across the United States and internationally. Location is determined through prayer, gifting, opportunity, and ministry need in partnership with CBM leadership and your home church.

What kind of ministry would I be doing?

CBM missionaries are primarily called to teach Scripture to children and youth and to equip others to do the same. At the same time, ministry extends beyond visible teaching moments to include administration, maintenance, food service, hospitality, and more — all working together to support the mission.

What should I be doing now?

Many begin through the CBM Internship (best for ages 18–29), volunteering with CBM during the school-year or summer, or ongoing service in the local church. This allows individuals to grow, be evaluated, and be equipped before stepping into long-term ministry roles.

Can I talk to someone before making a decision?

Yes — we welcome that conversation. Pursuing ministry is a significant step, and we want to help you discern God's leading with clarity and confidence.

Start the Conversation

If you are exploring a calling to ministry or have questions about the Missionary Pathway, we would love to connect with you.

Explore the Internship Program Read About the Missionary Call