What is a Missionary?

While all members of the Christian community by virtue of their Baptism and Confirmation are called to be missionaries (witnesses to Christ), God calls some to the special task of leaving their own country and culture to spread the Good News of the Gospel. These men and women are called missionaries. Missionaries can be sisters, brothers, priests or lay people. Missionaries are concerned with the total needs of men, women and children. This means that their work may range from general pastoral and parish ministry, to social ministry. They serve in education, medicine and community development.