| Are you, your church or Christian Union, thinking about forming a team to visit and work alongside SIM ministries overseas? If you are, here are some of the questions you should be thinking about. We can provide more detailed information later, but these questions will help as you get started on planning a team.
| 
|
1. What are you hoping to achieve through this team?
Meeting a specific short-term need overseas? Strengthening existing links with a particular person/project overseas? Establishing a new link which will be ongoing? Exposure of team members to overseas mission?
2. What is the background to the team?
Whose idea was it and who are the people who are motivated to be a part of it?
3. What discussions have you had with possible team members?
How much commitment is there already from those who might be joining the team?
4. Who needs to approve a venture of this nature?
What discussions have taken place? Raising a large amount of money for a team may be an area that needs sensitive discussion.
5. When do you want the team to go?
The earlier you start, the more likely that all the necessary practical arrangements can be made in time. Plan on 9 - 12 months to get everything in place before you go.
6. Where does your team want to go and what do you want to do?
Getting a clear picture of the type of placement you need to meet your objectives is very important:
- What kind of ministry does the team want to get involved in? e.g. maintenance, children’s work, evangelism, discipleship, teaching English, etc.
- Which continent or country or specific SIM location?
- How long for? 2 – 4 weeks is normal
Some flexibility on your part is very helpful to us!
7. What size will the team be?
A minimum of 4 people, and a maximum of 12.
8. Who will lead the team?
The right leaders really help to make the team both successful and safe. Look for people with leadership experience and qualities, and who have travelled independently in a developing country.
9. How will you go about recruiting for the team?
SIM can help you with this.
10. What would you like SIM to do on your behalf?
This normally includes:
- Co-ordination of overseas placement
- Administration, including flights, visas, medical clearance
- Briefing on practical preparation
- Pre-departure Orientation
- Debriefing on return
11. Orientation and Debriefing
Where and when? A weekend or a series of shorter orientation sessions?
12. Who carries ownership for the team?
Does this person have the time, skills, and commitment to make the team happen? If they don't, how can SIM-UK help make it a success?
Who to contact:
To discuss planning an overseas team with SIM, please contact us and we will put you in touch with the Regional Mobiliser for your area:
