COP Beginnings

I am a COPer now. When I first heard that, I was speaking out each syllable. When I got to training, I realized that it is actually said "cop" like the police officer. What does that mean? COP stands for "Candidate Orientation Program." It is a two-week orientation training for those who have gone through the extensive process of applying to be a missionary with SEND International. There are 22 of us here all following God's call to go overseas as missionaries long-term to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. There are about 13 children here as well - future MK's (Missionary Kids), though none that I will probably be teaching at Faith Academy.

This is an exciting time. God is calling out workers into His harvest. People are answering the call. We are preparing to give our lives to this call. Starting Thursday, we will each be meeting with the Missionary Appointment Committee (MAC) for our interview. They will be asking us probing questions and making their final decision as to whether or not we will become appointees with SEND International and be able to head on to the next step: fundraising! I have the last interivew, which will be on Saturday afternoon. I am excited for the opportunity to share my vision again with the MAC, and I anticipate continued learning and preparation over the next couple weeks.

Our days and evenings have been filled with great conversations, getting to know all the other soon-to-be missionaries. I have heard some great testimonies and stories of God's goodness and faithfulness. I love meeting new friends and reconnecting with SEND staff that I got to know when I was here five years ago! I look forward to the next week and a half as I continue to build these relationships as I prepare for the fundraising phase of my ministry!