We direct support to local mission workers who serve their communities through long-term presence. Their work includes contributing to the development of locally rooted communities and faith-inspired meeting places, where people gather voluntarily, build relationships, and support one another. This work takes place in local neighbourhoods, remote areas, and contexts where religious activity may involve personal risk.

Mission workers aim to support the growth of local faith communities that positively impact their surrounding communities. These communities take different forms. In the early stages, they often begin as small gatherings or home-based fellowships. Over time, many grow and develop further, shaped and led by local leadership in accordance with local context and traditions.

Financial support lasts until the mission worker and local community work is self-sustaining and able to continue independently. Support is then redirected to new locations and new initiatives.

In selected program countries, local mission workers receive support to organise larger community gatherings and outreach initiatives to strengthen emerging local communities. Following these activities, individuals who wish to do so receive personal follow-up from local mission workers and are invited to participate in newly formed local communities.

Those who want to learn more about the Christian faith receive a free introductory Bible course. The course is adaptable across different cultural contexts and has been translated into more than 50 languages. It consists of two parts, each with five lessons, and focuses on personal faith. The material includes biblical texts and is available both in print and as a mobile application.

In daily work, local mission workers use this course within their networks. Local faith communities use it as part of their teaching and formation activities. To date, several million people have completed the programme, with thousands of new participants each year.

In some program countries, follow-up offices operate where volunteers support the distribution of materials and ongoing personal follow-up. These volunteers often travel to hard-to-reach areas and maintain contact through repeated visits.

Building global mission engagement around local mission workers has proven effective and sustainable. It reduces costs, lowers environmental impact, and ensures cultural understanding. Local mission workers know the language, culture, and social context and can operate in areas not accessible to foreign workers.

This approach allows the work to continue even after external financial support has ended, contributing to long-term impact and locally sustained outcomes.

This strategy has been in use since 1965. While exact numbers are difficult to measure, it is estimated that millions of people have been reached through local mission workers and the locally rooted faith communities that have developed over time.