Missio Nexus Improve Series
Essentials for
Equipping and Growth
of Global Workers
A Collection of Best Practices, Research, Reflections, and Strategies
A Comprehensive, Up-to-Date Guide for Training, Supporting, and Developing Missionaries
Equip. Empower. Transform.
Available now in Paperback and Kindle.
About This Essential Guide
In a world where cross-cultural ministry is more complex than ever, Essentials for Equipping and Growth of Global Workers offers a timely and practical guide for those who train, send, and support missionaries.
This collaborative volume brings together seasoned practitioners and trainers to address the full spectrum of missionary development—from spiritual formation and emotional resilience to language acquisition, family care, and organizational strategy.
- Why This Book?
- Actionable best practices and research-backed strategies
- Real-world reflections from experienced trainers and global workers
- Tools for spiritual, emotional, and professional growth
- Designed for trainers, sending churches, mission leaders, and global workers
- For Every Mission Context
Whether you’re a veteran trainer looking to enhance your programs, a sending church preparing missionaries, or a global worker seeking professional development, this comprehensive resource provides practical tools and insights for lasting impact in cross-cultural ministry.
Praise for the Book
Leading voices in global missions share their endorsements
"This book strikes a balance between practical application and the theoretical. It spans a wide range of training issues and provides the reader with content not available elsewhere."
Ted Esler, PhD
President
Missio Nexus
"This book points the way toward greater longevity and fruitfulness in our Great Commission endeavors."
Steve Richardson
President
Pioneers USA
"Far too many who are sent cross-culturally do not continue in their calling. This book intends to curb that trend."
Dr. Marvin J. Newell
Ambassador at Large
Missio Nexus
"The Great Commission hasn't changed, but the methods for fulfilling it are in transition. This book blends the wisdom of those who came before with the best practices of today’s missions."
Brian Duggan
Former EVP
EFCA ReachGlobal
"This book resounds with a prophetic call to senders… There is no other role in the kingdom where the stakes are higher and the rewards greater!"
Dr. Steve Hoke
Former VP of Staff Development and Training
NOVO-Legacy
What’s Inside: Table of Contents
Comprehensive coverage of essential topics for missionary development
Part 1: Why the Equipping and Growth of Global Workers is Essential
The Connection Between Training and Retention
Cross-Cultural Ministry Competence: A Pathway to Relevant Training
Why Successful Training Programs Need Executive Level Support
Future Missionary Training in Light of Current Developments and Challenges
Part 2: Some of Today's Best Practices
What Kind of Training Changes People?
CARE for Others: Culturally Relevant Training and Adult Learning
Who Should Provide the Training?
Coaching is a Must: Enhancing Missionary Effectiveness Through Training
Just-in-Time Learning and Today’s Technology Gateways
The Pursuit of Professional Excellence
Part 3: Critical Topics
Intercultural Competence: Loving Our Neighbors
The Importance of Second Language Acquisition Training for Missionaries
Cross-Cultural Living and Family Matters
When Worlds Collide: Communication and Conflict in Mission Teams
A Pathway Towards Spiritual Vitality: The Practice of Slowing for Cross-Cultural Workers
Organizational Orientation
Meet the Editors
Experienced practitioners bringing together the collective wisdom of global missions
Mark Morgenstern
Mark grew up in a missions-minded church and spent 13 years in Russia and Ukraine church planting and developing church leaders. He has served as training director, founded Grow2Serve, and coordinates training workshops for Missio Nexus. Mark's passion is maximizing missionaries' faithful service to God and encouraging organizations to work together for greater impact.
Natalie Mullen Leisher
Natalie is Director of the Institute for Cross-Cultural Training and Professor of TESOL and Intercultural Studies at Wheaton College. With 20 years of experience in global worker training, her expertise includes missions organization language policy, adult second language acquisition, and language justice for the sake of the gospel.
Collaborative Excellence
This volume represents the collective wisdom of seasoned practitioners, bringing together decades of experience in missionary training and development.
Why Readers Love This Book
"A must-have resource for anyone committed to the long-term effectiveness and well-being of global workers."
"Practical, research-based, and full of wisdom from the field."
"Equips you to help global workers thrive—not just survive—in their calling."
"A game-changer for mission leaders, trainers, and sending churches."
Real Impact for Real Ministry
This isn't just another academic resource—it's a practical toolkit that's already transforming how organizations train and support their global workers.
Ready to Equip Your Global Workers?
Order your copy today and join a movement of excellence in missionary training.
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Gift Edition
Perfect for supporters and ministry partners