2025 Candidate School

“Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.”  —Matthew 9:37-38

One of the desires of Fundamental Baptist Missions International is to help prepare missionaries to serve Jesus effectively on the mission field. To do this, we ask all potential missionaries to participate in our annual Candidate School.

FBMI’s Candidate School is a vital step in becoming an FBMI missionary. We want all applicants to understand the commitment of being an FBMI missionary, and Candidate School is part of that education process. Consider these words of Jesus:

“And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.  And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.  For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?”  —Luke 14:25-28

In the verses above, Jesus told the multitudes following Him to count the cost of discipleship. He was teaching that potential disciples needed to count the cost before making a commitment. Similarly, Candidate School is a time for both missionary candidates and the leadership of FBMI to consider whether or not to commit to this long-term ministry relationship together.

The week of Candidate School includes practical, principled, and proven lessons taught by an excellent group of experienced missionaries and Christian leaders. Dozens of vital subjects are covered in detail. Candidates are encouraged to ask questions and actively participate in these special learning times. In addition to many hours of teaching, Candidate School also allows missionaries to build lasting relationships through the special, meaningful activities that we offer. Each year, missionary candidates enjoy spending fun time with each other, as well as with FBMI’s leadership and office team.

After completing Candidate School and the associated requirements, candidates are informed of their acceptance status. Once accepted as an FBMI missionary, an individual or family is ready to take the next steps together. We have made the commitment to serve them in partnership with their sending church and to help assist them in laboring in the “harvest” to which they have been sent by God.