The position you have selected is in a category called "Long-Term Mission Service." The information below applies only to this particular category of service. Other positions may have different provisions depending on their category.

Guidelines for Long-Term Mission Service
Long-term service meets core needs in the ELCA's international mission program. These positions are carefully developed with the long-range priorities of the ELCA's companion churches. These are primary staff positions, providing a fundamental resource within the mission strategy of the companion church. Almost without exception at least one other language must be mastered. In addition, these positions require the intimate knowledge of a country, people and culture that can only be acquired over time. For this reason and unless otherwise indicated, a commitment of eight years is normally necessary, although a major review is conducted at the four year mark.

Long-term positions are supported, budgeted and guaranteed by the resources of the ELCA through the mission support system. Some of the particular provisions include:

• Application is open to lay or clergy, except as the specific job description details
• Open to single persons and couples, with or without dependent children
• Salary - this is an equalized support system without distinction between profession, educational degrees or professional standing; a modest yearly adjustment for years of service is included
• A Goods and Service Differential provides equitable support among high cost and low-cost countries of service
• Major medical, disability and pension benefits - membership in the ELCA Pension and Other Benefits program, with all insurance premiums paid by ELCA Global Mission
• Furnished housing and 70% of utilities
• International transportation and shipping assistance
• Children's education
• Student loan assistance - 50% reimbursement of student loan obligations up to a maximum monthly benefit of $200
• Language training as required
• Term of service - 22 months in country followed by two months home assignment
• Four weeks annual vacation
• Service begins with an orientation program in July or January
• Return Benefit Allowance
• A full document of policies, expectations and support provisions for long-term mission personnel is available later in the application process.

Qualifications
General qualifications for ELCA mission personnel are the same for all categories of service. Specific job-related qualifications are listed in the summary position descriptions. The ELCA cooperates with other Christian churches, and service is open to active members of the ELCA and other Christian churches. Compatibility with ELCA Global Mission policies and guiding principles is an expectation.