Lay Mission-Helpers sends Catholic singles, families and married couples to live and work in mission dioceses in Africa, Latin America and the Pacific Islands. Our missioners offer their training as teachers, nurses, administrators, construction supervisors, pastoral ministers, engineers and other professions to be of service to the Church and those of God's people who have few material resources. We match your skill set with a need in one of our partner mission dioceses.
After attending a four-month formation program in Los Angeles, our missioners serve three-year terms in Ghana or Uganda (other sites are in development). LMH provides airfare, health insurance and a stipend. The mission site provides room and board. The need is great, but the rewards of serving are even greater. Read inspiring stories from the field and our current missioner blogs.
Application Process
Candidates are accepted into our Formation Program after successfully completing an application process.
The process includes:
- Submitting a Preliminary Form
- Participate in a Discernment Weekend
- Formal written application
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal interview
- Psychological interview and tests
- Medical exam
- Approval by our LMH Team
Requirements for Admission
Lay Mission-Helpers welcomes you to apply if you are:
- A practicing Catholic
- Age 21 to 62 years (upper age limit negotiable)
- A U.S. citizen
- A college graduate and/or have a professional skill needed in mission
- Willing to make a three-year commitment
- Dedicated to work and live with the poor
- Willing to participate in our four-month Formation Program
- Physically and mentally healthy
- Single, married or a family. We accept children under 10 years of age.
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 of the 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.
One Person Can Make a Difference
This colorful brochure provides a brief, powerful overview of the work Lay Mission-Helpers is doing and how you can help. Whether this is your first step toward serving in the missions or you just want to support others already serving overseas, you’ll find this document a helpful, quick-read resource. Please click here to download.
