Opportunities for ministers

If you are thinking of taking a sabbatical then why not use this time to gain some insight into the world church. BMS can help you do this by arranging a placement for you.

Many ministers who have taken this opportunity have found time spent overseas to be invaluable to their work in the UK church. It is possible, for example, to look at different ways of worshipping, new ways of evangelism or exciting development ideas. 

Ministers have gone to places as far apart as Thailand, Albania and Peru and many other places. You will give and gain so much. Don't just hear about world mission from a distance: experience it for yourself; see it first-hand.

You can go overseas for any length of time at any time of the year. Often it is not a case of going to “do” but to encourage, work alongside and share with Christians in a completely different setting. You will have the opportunity to reflect on your ministry in light of what you see and experience in other places. 

Each individual placement is unique and made especially for you. BMS will provide training, arrange flights, insurance, and the details of your itinerary and accommodation. We will be here to support you at every stage.

The different Baptist Unions in the UK encourage ministers to take regular sabbaticals and there may be a small bursary available to help with the costs of any study programme from your own union.

If you would prefer to go alongside other ministers then you might like to think of joining a Ministers’ Team as part of your sabbatical. Or consider taking a team from your church to experience mission and enrich the life of your fellowship.

How to apply

We would really like to talk with you about how BMS might be able to help arrange a sabbatical placement. Do give us a call on 01235 517649 or e-mail opportunities@bmsworldmission.org

Or if you are ready to apply then have a look at the box on the top right of this page. After reading the Next Steps and FAQ files fill in an Initial enquiry form. Sending in an enquiry form doesn’t commit you to anything – it just helps us to find out a bit more about you and it’s the first step in exploring the possibilities for an overseas sabbatical placement.