But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15

As part of our vision to see churches deeply engaged in cross-cultural mission, CMS offers apprenticeships to train and mentor Australian Christians in cross-cultural ministry. 

Mentac is a two year, full-time apprenticeship designed to provide training and mentoring in cross-cultural ministry. This apprenticeship seeks to equip and help people explore the path to long-term cross-cultural ministry, providing opportunities for evangelism and discipleship under the mentoring of experienced cross-cultural workers. 

CMS is seeking to work with churches and see this ministry continue to grow. While Mentac previously had a focus on ministry to Muslim people, in 2024 the program is expanding to reach Sydney’s growing Hindu population.

Mentac stands for ‘Mentoring across cultures’. The program includes formal and informal learning, hands-on ministry, and is based on immersion in communities here in Australia. It acts as a pathway to both develop your skills and considering the possibility of long-term cross-cultural mission (whether in Australia or overseas).

Mentac apprentices get to join a ministry team where they will be equipped to relate to Muslim or Hindu people, share the gospel with them, and disciple believers from these backgrounds to maturity in Christ. It is designed around the areas you want to grow in and also offers the option for some overseas experience during the apprenticeship. The full program is for two years including a review and opt-in/out at the completion of every six months. There is also a part-time option if this is more suitable.

We will also help you bring together your learning and ministry experience and reflect on how God is growing you.

• Convictions: Biblical foundations / theological development
• Character: Character formation / Spiritual growth in your daily life with the Lord Jesus Christ
• Commitment: Growing in passion for and experience in mission to those who don’t know Jesus

• Formal learning
• Informal learning
• Theological reflection combining experience and learning

• Mentoring
• Personal Learning Contract

• Practical Ministry
• Overseas Component
• Cohort Support

• Selection process and referees
• Regular meetings with Mentor and Ministry Supervisor

The diagram below explains the Mentac pathway.

Are you interested to reach Muslim or Hindu people with CMS or want to find out more? Let us know!

In NSW
mentacnswact@cms.org.au