Starting in August 2025, South America Mission invites you to dive into an immersive experience where faith meets real-world impact. Our Global Leadership Residency — an intensive, year-long ministry preparation experience – is more than a program. It’s an opportunity to learn, gain practical ministry experience, and explore your calling in a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about living out their faith authentically. With a focus on practical application, mentorship, and spiritual development, this residency equips you to have an impact in missions, ministry, or the marketplace. The Global Leadership Residency program is primarily funded through residents raising ministry support.
Core Parts of the Experience:
- Spiritual Formation & Leadership Development
- Practical Ministry Experience
- Community Engagement
What you bring: You are a college or seminary graduate, student leader, or an individual seeking spiritual, personal, and professional growth. We are looking for individuals who:
- Are committed to growing in your personal relationship with God and preparing for Global leadership.
- Are considering a gap year between undergrad and work or further studies.
- Have ministry and/or mission experience (volunteer or job-related).
- Preferably hold a Bachelor’s degree (Seminary experience is a plus).
- Preferably have some proficiency in Spanish or Portuguese.
Your Residency Experience Includes:
- Engage with SAM missionaries and ministries on a short-term trip in South America.
- Immerse yourself in God’s Word and build connections across diverse cultures.
- Interact with church partners to deepen their involvement in the Great Commission.
- Gain a deeper understanding of missiology and Christian leadership, enhancing your ability to serve in Christian ministry and the marketplace.
- Apply your academic knowledge to real-world contexts, fostering personal and professional growth plus collaborative skills.
- Actively participate in global ministry work and language learning.
FAQs:
What are the dates of this residency?
- August 1, 2025 – July 2026
- Spots in the Residency Program are limited, so we encourage you to apply as early as possible. The application deadline is April 1, 2025. To get started, submit our Contact Form.
How is the Global Leadership Residency Program funded?
The Global Leadership Residency Program is primarily funded through residents raising ministry support. This provides residents with an opportunity to build a network of prayer and financial partners who support their work during and beyond the residency year. We provide guidance and assistance throughout the fundraising process to help residents effectively engage with their community and secure the necessary support.
Is this residency in-person?
Yes, the Global Leadership Residency Program is in-person. We believe that the depth of learning, growth, and community building can only be fully realized through face-to-face interactions. By living and working alongside your cohort, engaging in real-time mentorship, and participating in local ministry and service opportunities, you’ll form deep, meaningful relationships that foster both personal and professional development.
Where will I live during my Residency year?
Arrangements will be made for the cohort to live together in separate housing based on gender, though the specifics may vary depending on the needs and circumstances of the residents. We believe that a core part of the residency experience is rooted in community within the cohort. Living together fosters deeper connections and shared experiences, allowing residents to get to know one another on a personal level. This communal living environment encourages open dialogue, collaboration, and mutual support, which are essential for personal and professional growth. As residents share their journeys, challenges, and successes, they not only build strong relationships but also gain valuable insights about themselves and their leadership potential. This immersive experience cultivates a sense of belonging and a strong foundation for lifelong friendships and networks.
What does the Global Leadership Residency Program look for in an applicant?
The Global Leadership Residency Program values a diverse set of life experiences. We seek applicants from various backgrounds, universities, and majors who exhibit maturity, humility, a teachable spirit, and a desire to grow in Christ. We also look for individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, academic dedication, and a commitment to applying themselves in ministry and professional development.
How many Residents are in the Cohort?
We expect 4-6 residents to participate in our program each year.
What does a typical Resident’s week look like?
While each Resident’s schedule varies based on their specific ministry area, all residents engage in three core areas each week: work, spiritual formation, and community engagement.
- Work: Residents typically work 3-5 days per week, spending around 20 hours developing their professional skills in the ministry area that best suits their talents and experience.
- Spiritual Formation: Residents invest approximately 10 hours per week in spiritual growth through leadership and theology courses, as well as mentorship from executive leaders.
- Community Engagement: Residents spend around 10 hours per week building intentional relationships through volunteer opportunities, local church involvement, mentorship, and especially within their cohort. The cohort also shares meals and engages in discussion groups or Bible studies once a week. Residents are matched with a mentor from the local community to cultivate cross-generational relationships.
I am planning to attend graduate school. Does the Global Leadership Residency program make sense for me?
Absolutely! The hands-on experience, leadership development, and sense of community you will gain during the Residency year will provide a solid foundation for graduate studies across various disciplines. The relationships you cultivate with mentors and colleagues will not only offer meaningful support but will also serve as strong references as you pursue your academic goals.
When should I apply?
Spots in the Residency Program are limited, so we encourage you to apply as early as possible. The application deadline is April 1, 2025.
How do I apply?
Start by submitting our Contact Form.