Formation Program

he four-month Formation Program, held in Los Angeles from January – May each year, takes place in a setting of community living, participative learning, and prayer. It is designed to prepare the candidates for life in an overseas mission setting.

The formation program consists of three main areas:

Spiritual Development: scripture, mission theology, spirituality, world religions, Catholic social teaching, moral theology, retreats.

Cross Cultural Issues: Education & Healthcare in developing countries, Power & Diversity, realities of cross cultural living, intercultural development.

Adult Development: Communication, personality inventories, community living, staying healthy (emotionally & physically), transitions.

Application Deadline: Applications can be submitted at any time. To be considered for the January formation program, applications must be received by July 15th.


The process includes:

• Submitting a Preliminary Form (see How To Apply below)
• Participation in a discernment weekend [click for details]
• Formal written application
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interview
• Psychological interview and tests
• Medical exam
• Approval by our LMH Team.



Requirements for Admission

• Be a practicing Catholic involved in his/her local Church and community,
• Be a U.S. citizen,
• Have a college degree and/or professional skill needed in the missions,
• Have good mental and physical health,
• Be 21 to 62 years of age,
• Be willing to make a 3-year commitment,
• Have a commitment to work and live with the poor,
• Participate in the 4-month Formation Program in Los Angeles.
• Be willing to actively assist in fundraising for costs of mission support.


How To Apply

If you are interested in the Lay Mission-Helpers Association, you can begin the process by filling out the Preliminary Form. You may also download a PDF form that you can mail in to Lay Mission-Helpers. You will need Adobe Acrobat to open and print this form. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat, please click here.

Our History - LMH Program - Where We Work - Meet Missionaries In The Field
Letters From Missionaries - You're Needed - Support Lay Mission- Helpers - Contact Us


Lay Mission-Helpers Association, 3435 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1940, Los Angeles, CA  90010
Telephone: (213) 368-1870 • Facsimile: (213) 368-1871
  E-mail:  
info@laymissionhelpers.org