Why Most Missionaries Leave the Field Early

A 2019 survey by ABWE of 40,000 missionaries and 600 Missions Agencies revealed a staggering statistic: 43% of the Missionaries did not fulfill their full mission commitment.

This means 17,000 missionaries, out of 40,000, left the field prematurely, leaving critical positions unfilled, and 17,000 cycles of fundraising and training to begin all over again.

The #1 Reason Missionaries Left the Field Early? A drop in funding.

Why Does Missionary Support Dwindle?

Most mission agencies and churches require missionaries to raise full financial support before entering the field. So why does funding start disappearing once they're deployed?

Research and discussions with churches and individual supporters point to a key issue: A lack of consistent communication from the missionaries.

Here’s the pattern:

1. Strong Communication During Support Raising:
   During the initial Support Raising phase, missionaries excel at engaging their supporters. They share stories, updates, and progress, building trust and enthusiasm for the mission.
2. Drop in Communication After Deployment:
   Once in the field, the realities of ministry, cultural adjustment, and personal responsibilities often take precedence. Communication slows - or stops altogether
3. Supporters Lose Confidence:
   Churches and individuals, operating with limited budgets, need to see evidence that their funding is making an impact. Without regular updates, they often redirect support to other ministries that demonstrate transparency and engagement.

The Solution: Consistent Communication

At One Village, we recognize that communication is a skill - not a talent. It can be taught, learned, practiced, and enjoyed when implemented correctly.

How do we do this?

• Modern Communication Platforms:
  We train missionaries in the effective use of blogs, social media, video updates, and messaging apps to keep their supporters informed.
• Building Confidence Through Consistent Engagement:
  We help them build best practice models for regular engagements that foster trust and maintain the enthusiasm of those who send and sustain them.
• Prioritizing We help missionaries understand how to prioritize communication in order to maintain their funding, strengthen relationships with supporters, and ensure the longevity of their service in the field.

Imagine a world where 17,000 missionaries didn't leave the mission field early. What would that world look like? How much faster would the Gospel be shared with every tribe, tongue, and nation?

For more insights into why missionaries leave the field and how to address this challenge, read the ABWE report here: ABWE Report.