The Journey of MTI
At Mission Training International (MTI), we are more than just an organization; we are a community dedicated to the holistic preparation of those called to serve cross-culturally around the globe. Our story is one of vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the well-being and effectiveness of global workers and missionaries. Here, we share our journey, the evolution of our programs, and the impact we strive to make—and aim to continue making—in the world of cross-cultural missions.
Our story began in the early 1950s when a group of like-minded individuals noticed a critical gap in missions. Many missionaries, though spiritually prepared and passionately committed, found themselves facing unforeseen challenges in new cultural contexts. This gap in preparation led to difficulties that, in many cases, could have been mitigated with proper training. It was out of this need that Missionary Internship (later to become Mission Training International) was born, with a mission to equip these individuals not just with good intentions, but with practical skills and knowledge to navigate diverse cultures effectively.
Our initial steps were humble, starting with workshops and training sessions focused on cultural adaptation and community engagement. As the need for such training became more apparent, we expanded our reach and capabilities to include language acquisition, self & others awareness, and resilience, eventually establishing a permanent training center in Colorado. This allowed us to develop and offer more comprehensive programs to a growing community of global workers and their families.
Over the years, we have fine-tuned our offerings into two primary programs: Pre-Field Training (Compass) for those preparing to embark on a mission and Debriefing and Renewal (DAR) for those on Home Assignment/Furlough or returning to their passport culture. Compass addresses the essentials of cross-cultural living, including language acquisition, cultural adaptation, and stress management, while our DAR program offers a reflective space for cross-cultural workers to process their stories in transition. At the heart of MTI’s philosophy is the belief in equipping the whole family. We understand the success and well-being of a missionary depends on the preparedness and resilience of the family. Therefore, our programs are designed to include the whole family unit, especially their children, recognizing their particular needs in the mission journey.
The influence of MTI’s work extends far beyond the individuals who attend our programs. By equipping missionaries with the tools to engage respectfully and effectively in diverse cultural settings, we contribute to more meaningful and sustainable interactions between global workers and the communities they serve. This not only enhances the success of their missions but also fosters deeper mutual respect and understanding.
As we move forward, MTI remains committed to innovation and accessibility. We are exploring new methodologies to deliver our training more effectively and updating our curriculum to address emerging challenges in global missions. Our goal is to ensure that every missionary family has the preparation and support they need to thrive on the mission field.
Supporting MTI means becoming part of a larger movement toward more effective, resilient, and compassionate cross-cultural engagement. Whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word, your support helps us equip more global workers to make a profound difference across cultures and continents.
MTI has served over 50,000 cross-cultural workers going to all corners of the globe
Our journey from a small group of visionaries to a cornerstone in missionary preparation underscores the critical role of comprehensive training and support in the success of global missions. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the work of organizations like MTI is more crucial than ever. Through our commitment to the holistic well-being of missionaries and their families, we continue to pave the way for a future where cross-cultural workers are fully equipped to navigate the complexities of their calling with grace, effectiveness, and compassion.
As an organization, we are deeply committed to our own improvement and conscious about our impact. The primary source of this narrative is our rich history and the testimonials of those we’ve served. While we draw on internal resources and feedback to tell our story, the true testament to our journey is found in the lives and missions of the countless individuals and families who have passed through our programs, ready to make a difference in the world.