Frequently Asked Questions

What is Interserve USA?

Interserve USA is one of 19 national councils and committees of the international, interdenominational fellowship whose official name is International Service Fellowship. We are made up of Christian professionals and highly trained personnel who use their professional skills in a ministry context.

What is the mission of Interserve USA?

The mission of Interserve USA is to glorify God by serving His Church and sharing Jesus Christ in holistic ministry where he is least known.

What is the aim of Interserve USA?

The aim of Interserve USA is to proclaim in word and deed that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior. We are committed to serving the Christian Church and we wish to contribute directly or indirectly to the making of disciples of Jesus Christ.

What are Interserve USA’s core values?

• To use our professional skills as mission service.
• To emphasize service to the needy and oppressed.
• To be a member of the community in which we serve by learning the local language and respecting and being a part of the national culture.
• To minister holistically to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the individual.
• To be a servant of the local church in the U.S.A. or where it exists in the countries we serve.

When was Interserve USA founded?

Interserve USA traces its English roots back to the Zenana Mission that began in India in 1852. A parallel organization, the Woman's Union Missionary Society, began in the U.S.A. in 1860. The groups merged in the twentieth century and became Interserve, the umbrella organization of which Interserve USA is a part. Interserve is the oldest independent, interdenominational faith mission in the world.

Where does Interserve USA work?

Our Partners work in North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia in countries whose peoples are primarily Muslims, Hindus, or Tibetan Buddhists. This is sometimes called the 10/40 Window because it refers to the area between 10 and 40 degrees north of the equator. We also work in other countries where there are significant groups of migrants from these areas.

Why does Interserve USA work in the 10/40 Window?

It is an area where about 90 per cent of the peoples have never heard the gospel but where only three per cent of Christian ministry takes place.

Why do you use the term "Partners"?

We use the term "Partners" for our workers because it reflects our practice of being partners with the local people in work, play, housing, and almost every aspect of life. An Interserve USA Partner is a Christian who is affiliated with Interserve USA and has chosen to use his or her professional skills to minister holistically to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of people in the 10/40 Window.

Is Interserve USA growing?

Yes. Interserve USA has grown from about 33 Partners and short-term workers in 1986 to about 120 today. We invite men and women of all races who sense God's call to join us in showing God's love and communicating the Gospel.

How are partners supported?

The source of income is not primary to membership in Interserve. Some Partners earn a salary for the work they do. This is sometimes referred to as tentmaking. Others have an independent means of support. Still others (the largest percentage) give their service as a gift to the people they serve and their support is pledged by individuals and interested organizations.

What is "tentmaking?"

Tentmaking is a model of lay ministry based on Paul’s example as recorded in Acts, a book of the Bible. Paul used his tent making skills as a means of financial support while engaging in Christian ministry. We send people to share their skills and help people, sharing our faith as opportunities arise.

» Read our position paper on tentmaking

Which professions are the easiest to place?

Medical professionals, engineers, administrators, teachers, and community development workers can be placed in many countries. However, many other professionals are also. See our Service Opportunities section for both long- and short- term opportunities.

How long do Partners serve?

We encourage long-term ministry but are open to those who desire a shorter stay. A typical overseas assignment is for three years, with a return to the place of assignment after a four to six month Home Assignment in the United States.

In addition to career service, are there opportunities for short-term service with Interserve?

Yes. Most short-term placements are medical students and nurses, but others are also placed. Such assignments can last from one month to a year. See our section on Short Term Opportunities.

Are Interserve's financial records audited regularly?

Yes. Interserve holds to the standards of, and is an active member of, the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability and is one of the founding members of the Interdenominational Foreign Mission Association of North America.