Q: What is the length of service commitment?
A: One year minimum and three consecutive years maximum.
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Q: How long does the application process take?
A: Usually 3 – 6 months. It all depends upon the applicant and how quickly forms are returned.
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Q: Is there an application deadline?
A: July 1st for summer consideration. Orientation is held in August. December 1st for winter consideration. Orientation is held in January.
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Q: What would be my financial responsibilities?
A: You are responsible for paying your way to & from our orientation. (Room & board are taken care of during the orientation.) Vaccinations are another financial responsibility for you. Visa expenses and travel expenses to & from site are paid by the Salesian Lay Missioner (SLM), but will be reimbursed upon completion of commitment.
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Q: What will the SLM program provide?
A: We will pay for room, board, and medical insurance. Travel expenses to and from the site are paid by the SLM. Upon completion of commitment, travel is reimbursed by the Salesian Lay Missioner program. The stipend of $50 per month for all SLMs, domestic and international.
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Q: Can I choose where to go to serve?
A: Placement is a process of mutual discernment, involving the missioner, SLM program, and the ministry site. We will take your geographic and ministry preference into account. It’s important to us that you will be able to use your gifts and feel you are making a difference. It is also important that we are responding to the urgent needs of the people we serve, and so we ask applicants to be flexible and open to a true discernment process.
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Q: Do I need a second language to go overseas?
A: Conversational knowledge of the language spoken in the mission is a plus. We also have ministries with diverse cultures in the United States that will allow you to use second language skills; especially Spanish.
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Q: Where do SLMs live?
A: They normally live in community with Salesian Priests, Brothers or Sisters. Sometimes they do live with other Salesian Lay Missioners and/or volunteers from other organizations or different countries.
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Q: What is expected from missioners?
A: SLMs represent both the Salesian Lay Missioner Program and the Salesians of Don Bosco, and are expected to conduct themselves properly. Missioners are also expected to live a Christian lifestyle and participate in community living through mass, prayers, meals etc.
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Q: What can I expect from the orientation program?
A: One week orientation with different workshops, retreat atmosphere, and activities with kids to prepare you more fully for ministry and community. You’ll also have the chance to get to know the other missioners and the Salesian family better.
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Q: If I’m accepted, can I defer my student loans?
A: Yes. Many SLMs have deferred their loans and have needed a letter from the Salesian organization stating that they are not receiving any type of salary and working as a volunteer. The deferment process and requirements depend on your loan provider, but we would be happy to work with them.
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