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Youth With A Mission ('''YWAM''') is an international, interdenominational Christian Missionary organization whose motto is "To know God and to make Him known." YWAM is comprised of people from over 150 countries and numerous Christian denominations, with nearly half of the staff coming from "non-western" countries. There are currently 15,700 full-time workers at 1030 operating locations in 149 nations. Many YWAM locations conduct training programs and coordinate short-term outreaches for individuals, youth groups, families and churches. Over 25,000 people participate in YWAM training programs and outreaches each year. MINISTRY The three strands of ministry that the organization emphasizes are Evangelism, Training, and Mercy ministries. Evangelism Sports camps, drama presentations, musical events, along with other creative and performing arts are the avenues through which volunteers and staff share their Christian faith. YWAM also engages in Church Planting , in coordination with churches and denominations, or alone when working among people groups who do not have churches among them. Training The stated purpose of YWAM training programs is to raise up men and women who will "disciple nations and transform cultures". A central concept to YWAM teaching is the notion of societal "spheres of influence", such as Education, Government, Arts, Media, Business and Commerce, and Religion. The YWAM strategy is to train and equip Christians to become people of influence within these spheres. The various training schools of YWAM are organized under the structure of The '' University Of The Nations (UofN)''. Most schools in the UofN system have a three month lecture phase which is then followed by a two-to-three month field assignment. Mercy Ministries See Also: Mercy Ships The practical and physical needs of the global community are met by YWAM through ''Mercy Ministries International''. Its humanitarian efforts reach an estimated 400,000+ people annually and is increasing in its aims and numbers. ''Marine Reach'', the maritime arm of YWAM's Mercy Ministries, uses ships to bring physical and spiritual healing to the poor and needy. YWAM ships have provided vitally important surgeries, dental care, medical supplies, food, seeds, construction materials, development projects, training, and their message to the port cities of the world. CONTROVERSY During its 46 year history, YWAM has at times drawn criticism for certain doctrinal issues and unhealthy leadership practices. Different "apologetics" oriented websties document these various complaints and concerns. YWAM leadership has acknowledged several such incidents, but asserts that they are isolated and not normative. They note that YWAM upholds a set of Foundational Values and a Statement of Faith by which all its members are expected to abide, and that most complaints stem from cases where individual members have deviated from the organization's values and doctrine. YWAM leaders also state that the organization enjoys broad endorsement from diverse Evangelical leaders. EXTERNAL LINKS YWAM Locations Africa
Asia
Europe
North America
South America Related sites
YWAM Stories
Critique
Response to criticism
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