Formation Program

The four-month Formation Program takes place in a setting of community living, participative learning, and prayer.

There are classes in theology, scripture, and adult development, workshops on Mission, Social Analysis, Communication Skills, Methods of Popular Education, Mission Spirituality, Skills for Cross Cultural Living, Relationships, Intimacy and Sexuality Overseas, Mission in the Context of Social Change and Violence, and Moral Issues.

There are also weekly area studies, daily prayer, community life, and reflection groups. For a more complete program overview click here.

Formation Program Schedule:
January 14 - May 18, 2008
Date for 2009 is January 19-May 17

Application Deadline: July 15, 2008

Application Process

Candidates are accepted into our Formation Program after successfully completing an application process.

The process includes:

• Submitting a Preliminary Form (see How To Apply below)
• Participation in a discernment weekend [click for details]
• Formal written application
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interview
• Psychological interview and tests
• Medical exam
• Approval by our LMH Team.



Requirements for Admission

• Be a practicing Catholic involved in his/her local Church and community,
• Be a U.S. citizen,
• Have a college degree and/or professional skill needed in the missions,
• Have good mental and physical health,
• Be 21 to 62 years of age,
• Be willing to make a 3-year commitment,
• Have a commitment to work and live with the poor,
• Participate in the 4-month Formation Program in Los Angeles.


How To Apply

If you are interested in the Lay Mission-Helpers Association, you can begin the process by filling out the Preliminary Form. You may also download a PDF form that you can mail in to Lay Mission-Helpers. You will need Adobe Acrobat to open and print this form. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat, please click here.

Our History - LMH Program - Where We Work - Meet Missionaries In The Field
Letters From Missionaries - You're Needed - Support Lay Mission- Helpers - Contact Us


Lay Mission-Helpers Association, 3435 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1035, Los Angeles, CA  90010
Telephone: (213) 368-1870 • Facsimile: (213) 368-1871
  E-mail:  
info@laymissionhelpers.org