The Call to Mission

Volunteers in mission have been present since the beginning of the church. St. Paul was one of the earliest volunteers in mission. As a tent-maker, he financed his own missionary journeys to preach the Christian gospel and share the love of Christ with persons in many places.

In more recent times, the concept of giving personal time in volunteer Christian service has developed into a major mission effort. All of God's children have unique gifts and skills which can be used in ministry. In 1976, a special movement was organized in the Southeast call United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM). This "grass roots" organization gave direction and impetus to the volunteer effort in the United Methodist Church. Since that time, thousands of volunteers have served throughout the world. For many who have chosen this form of mission, it has been a life changing experience.