1. W HERE DO I START ? Not sure if you should go on a mission? We can help.

2. A RE YOU CALLED TO BE ON A MISSION PROJECT WITH C ATHOLIC C HRISTIAN O UTREACH ? Here are a few things to consider as you begin this period of discernment…

3. P EOPLE NEED TO HEAR THE MESSAGE OF J ESUS AND EXPERIENCE H IS LOVE : “First of all, I urge, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all men to be saved and come to knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as ransom for all men.” – 1 Tim 2:1-6 Read and contemplate Romans 10

4. E ACH AND EVERY ONE OF US IS CALLED TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS G REAT M ISSION : “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.” – Luke 10:2 “Therefore go and make disciples of all Nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.” – Matthew 28:19-20

5. Y OU WILL BE CHANGED AND YOUR FAITH WILL GROW FAR BEYOND WHAT YOU COULD ASK OR IMAGINE : “Now glory be to God! By his mighty power at work within us, he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope. May he be given glory in the church and in Christ Jesus forever and ever through endless ages. Amen.” - Ephesians 3:20 Take some time to prayerfully read what God says about some of the concerns you may be facing…

6. I S FEAR HOLDING YOU BACK ? H ERE ARE SOME SCRIPTURE PASSAGES THAT ARE HELPFUL : Jeremiah 1:6-10 Matthew 9:35-37; 10:1-33 Romans 8:31b Philippians 4:13 Fear

7. T HINK YOU ’ RE TOO BUSY TO GO ON A MISSION ? H ERE ARE SOME HELPFUL PASSAGES : Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 Matthew 19:29-30 Mark 8:34-38 Philippians 2:21 Too Busy

8. T HINK YOU ’ RE TOO BROKE ? G OD CAN HELP WITH THAT TOO : Matthew 6:19-24 Matthew 6:25-34 Luke 11:5-13 Money

9. One of the more common barriers that may hinder you from applying for a mission is finances: “I’d really like to go, but… I’m broke” or “I need to save for school next year…” Although these may be sincere statements, you may not realize that your heavenly Father promises to meet your needs as you trust Him. The apostle Paul states in Philippians 4:19: “And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

10. Raising financial support provides an excellent opportunity for you to trust God. Ask yourself these questions: What is the ultimate purpose of my life? What do I honestly want out of life? What do I want to accomplish by the time I graduate from university? Why am I interested in being a part of a summer mission? What are my fears and misgivings? How will being a part of a mission help fulfill my desires and purpose in life? How will my staying home help fulfill my desires and purpose in life? What should I do to discern? Barrier or Stepping Stone?

11. Here are some more helpful tips: Pray every day asking specifically for God to reveal His call for you this summer. Ask Mary and the Saints for their intercessions. Be prepared to listen! Know that you probably won’t be receiving clear signs from heaven, but be attentive to what the Lord is telling you in your heart. Barrier or Stepping Stone?

12. Read a chapter of Acts each day and ask : What did God call the Apostles to do in this particular chapter? What would God be calling me to in light of this particular chapter? Discuss with a CCO staff member, Faith study leader, or a friend, etc. your interest in the project. Discuss with your parents, priest, and close friends what they think about you going on mission. Go through the application questions. Barrier or Stepping Stone?

13. As you discern, know that we are praying for you too. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the project leaders or missions department. This is a tremendous opportunity to create a significant mark on the Church, and for you to invest in your spiritual life! A CCO mission project is an awesome means of growing in your faith and sharing your faith. Opportunity of a Lifetime