What time commitment is required?
One year in the United States and two years for overseas. All placements have possibilities for renewal.
How long does the application process take?
Usually 3-6 months. The exact length depends on how quickly the various forms are returned and how promptly interviews can be scheduled.
What would be my financial responsibilities?
While an applicant, you are responsible for paying your way to our offices for interviews. We are located on the campus of Cabrini College in Radnor, PA, outside Philadelphia.(However, while here, you will be our guest.) Once accepted, you are responsible for your transportation back to the Philadelphia area for orientation.
What will CMC provide?
We will pay for travel to and from your mission site, room and board, medical insurance during your time of service. The stipend is $150 per month for U.S. missioners and an amount adequate for a modest lifestyle overseas.
Do I need a second language to go overseas?
Placements are available in countries where fluency in the local language is not required. We also have ministries with diverse cultures in the United States that will allow you to use second language skills; especially Spanish.
What are the requirements to go overseas?
A minimum of three months lived experience in a developing country and substantial volunteer experience are required for all overseas placements. Missioners to Swaziland , Southern Africa must be at least 25 years of age. In addition to CMC's two-week orientation in August, international missioners also attend a three-week cross-cultural orientation program in July.
Can I choose where I go to serve?
Placement is a process of mutual discernment, involving the missioner, CMC, the Cabrini Sisters and the ministry site. We want to know your geographic and ministry preferences and will take them into account. It’s important to us that you will be able to use your gifts and feel you are making a difference. It is also important that we are responding to the urgent needs of the people we serve, and so we ask applicants to be flexible and open to a true discernment process.
How do you decide where someone should be placed?
Placement is a process of mutual discernment, involving the missioner, CMC, the Cabrini Sisters and the ministry site. We want to know your geographic and ministry preferences and will take them into account. It's important to us that you will be able to use your gifts and feel you are making a difference. It is also important that we are responding to the urgent needs of the people we serve, and so we ask applicants to be flexible and open to a true discernment process.
Where do CMC missioners live?
They live in community with Cabrini sisters, though sometimes they live with other missioners.
Will the Sisters expect me to live their lifestyle?
You are invited to participate in the Sisters' lifestyle as you feel comfortable, but not expected to live the life of a religious sister or brother. There are expectations for community living, however, and each community decides the best way to live that out. Expectations, hopes and questions about community are addressed more fully during our orientation program.
What else is expected from missioners?
CMC missioners represent both Cabrini Mission Corps and the Cabrini Sisters, and are expected to conduct themselves properly. Missioners are also expected to live a Christian lifestyle and attend the church of their choice each week.
What can I expect from the orientation program?
Two weeks in the Philadelphia area with workshops, retreats, and quiet times to prepare you more fully for ministry and community. You'll also have the chance to get to know the other missioners and the Cabrinian family better. We wrap up orientation with a commissioning liturgy and celebration which your family and friends are welcome to attend. There is an additional three-week orientation in July for missioners going overseas.
What happens when my time of service is over?
You will participate in several days of debriefing with other returning missioners. This is a time for you to integrate your past experiences and plan for the future.
If I'm accepted, can I defer my student loans?
Normally yes. You need to write your lending institution and ask them for the proper deferment forms. We will be happy to assist in this process.
Do you provide AmeriCorps Education Awards?
No. AmeriCorps Education Awards are no longer available through faith-based programs.
Should I apply to more than one organization at a time?
Yes. That way you can get an idea of what your options are and find the right program for you.
Is it all right if I call to check on the status of my application?
Please do! We like to stay in contact with every applicant and appreciate your interest. You can call 610-971-0821.
