Formation
Fidesco’s formation is divided into two parts. In the first, the aim is to for us to discern together your aptitude and suitability to go on mission with Fidesco  This period of reflection enables you to mature in your desire and determination to go on mission. For the Fidesco team, it is a time in which we want to get to know you better in order to assign you to the right mission. At the end of this period, both parties will make a decision on whether to offer or accept a mission assignment.
 
If both agree to continue, Fidesco will match the candidate with the needs expressed by local partners and will propose the candidate to the partner whose need is the strongest. Although you can express your desire for a certain type of mission, Fidesco decides and proposes the mission country. Speaking a foreign language will be taken into account, but it is not a guarantee that you will be sent to a specific country. Above all, the aim is to send volunteers where they are needed most.

The second half of formation prepares you for the reality of everyday life in another culture and  provides you with the tools for successful inculturation in a foreign country. It also includes administrative issues that need to be reviewed and finalized prior to departure, such as insurance, medical examinations, etc.

Key Topics of Formation Include:

  • the challenges of volunteer service
  • self-knowledge
  • causes of underdevelopment
  • knowledge of the mission country and its culture
  • project management
  • hands-on training
  • administrative issues and volunteer status
  • medical requirements
  • spiritual formation
  • professional instruction according to need (tropical medicine, agriculture…)

For Europeans, Fidesco organizes mission departures twice a year: once in the autumn and once in the spring. These departures are at the end of a nine-month formation which includes meeting for two weekends and two sessions.

A condensed period of formation is being developed for candidates from the USA and Australia.  Please contact us for more detailed information if you live in either of these countries and wish to explore becoming a Fidesco volunteer.