About GAP

Overview 

Standing in the Gap involves giving a year of missionary service in a Kairos outreach or Sword of the Spirit community. It also involves growing as a disciple through participation in household life and the formation programs we offer.  

To apply to do a GAP year, begin by reading this overview. Next, download the GAP application form and referral form. Fill them out and send them in. Then we will help you determine where would be best to go (although the final decision is made by the local GAP program director.) You can also apply directly to other GAP Centers.

GAP Program Service Roles

These vary by location, but in most GAP programs roles in the following service areas are available:

  • Children's programs. 
  • Community youth programs. 
  • Outreach youth programs. 
  • Administrative positions. 
  • Financial administration.  
  • Serving as a personal assistant.  
  • Secretarial service.  
  • Publicity and promotions 
  • Web, video, and brochure design.
  • Worship team

Your level of skill and maturity will be a factor in determining your service, but most everyone will service in several of the listed capacities.

Finances

Because GAP is a volunteer program, you must cover your own expenses.  However, we can help you raise funds for your GAP year and work with you to come up with a plan to finance  your internship.  In some cases there are part-time positions available in the local community that are reserved for Gappers.  Your total costs will probably be between $700-$800 per month, but don't forget the cost of "getting there."

Visas

Where you go for your GAP year will determine what visa options exist.  We will help you obtain the appropriate visa for the country in which you will serve. If you seek to serve outside your home country, you should begin the gap application process at least six months before you expect to depart.

Living arrangements

Gappers can live in a university outreach household for single men or single women, with a family, or in in a household of men or women living Single for the Lord.  You can tell us your preference, and we will do our best to accomodate it. In any case, you will live in a good situation with people who know what they are doing and receive oversight for this role.

Starting dates

Each GAP program has its own key start-up events.  A GAP year normally begins with the Campus Outreach Academy (COA) or Youth Leaders Development program (YLD) in early August.  Typically you are expected to serve between nine and twelve months.  There are also two-year placements for the serious Gapper!

Commitments

The GAP program is a time set apart for your growth in holiness. You will be expected to give as much of your life to the Lord and His service as possible.  This involves- 

  1. Participating fully and eagerly in the GAP program.
  2. Foregoing any romantic relationships.
  3. Participating in the local branch of the Sword of the Spirit.
  4. Serving for a set period of time unless you and your supervisor agree to shorten or lengthen your time of service.

Overall, many former Gappers can testify that a GAP year is a year well spent!