When Jesus looked at the crowds in Matthew 9:36–38, Scripture says His heart overflowed with compassion. He saw people who were “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd,” and He turned to His disciples with a simple but world‑changing instruction:
“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.” 

At International Ministries, we still believe those words describe our world today. God is at work in every nation, culture, and community—and God continues to call ordinary people, with ordinary gifts, to join that extraordinary mission. 

Maybe you’ve felt that nudge.
Maybe you’ve wondered, “Could God be inviting me to serve cross‑culturally… long‑term?”
Maybe you’re ready to explore, but you’re not sure where to begin. 

If that’s you, the Discernment Track of the World Mission Conference (July 29–31) was created with you in mind. 

What Is the Discernment Track? 

The Discernment Track is a guided, grace‑filled space within the World Mission Conference designed for people who are sensing a call to long‑term global service. It’s not a pressure‑filled recruiting event—it’s an invitation to listen, explore, and take your next faithful step. 

Participants will: 

• Meet experienced IM global servants and leaders who understand the journey of discerning a call. 

• Ask real questions about mission life, preparation, training, support, spiritual formation, and cross‑cultural work. 

• Engage a simple guidebook with reflection questions and interactive activities to use throughout the conference. 

• Share meals with missionaries and IM staff for focused, personal conversations. 

• Have the option to meet with a spiritual director, someone who can help you listen for God’s voice. 

• Gather with fellow discerners at the beginning and end of the conference to reflect, pray, and encourage one another. 

You’ll participate fully in the main conference worship, speakers, and workshops—while also receiving intentional support specific to your season of discernment. 

What IM Looks for in Prospective Global Servants 

From our 200+ years of mission history, IM has learned that God calls all kinds of people—teachers, nurses, pastors, engineers, artists, administrators, and more. Every follower of Jesus has gifts that God can use on the mission field. What matters most isn’t having it all figured out, but having a growing love for Christ and a willingness to step out in faith. 

IM looks for people who are: 

• Committed to Jesus and the work of the Gospel 

• Rooted in Scripture and prayer

• Humble, teachable, and culturally sensitive

• Able to work well with others

• Compassionate toward the marginalized and the vulnerable

• Open to learning, growing, and adapting

If that sounds like you – or the kind of person you’re learning to be – then the Discernment Track may be exactly the right next step.

Learn more about the World Mission Conference

See a list of FAQs for the conference