International churches (ICs) are those churches around the world that primarily serve people of various nationalities (expatriates ) and church backgrounds living outside their passport (home) countries. They are also increasingly including more nationals. The main characteristics are:

• International churches typically operate in English, often not the native language of the host country, with many attendees using it as a second language.
• Most members are expatriates or part of the global diaspora.
• These churches are characterized by cultural diversity, global perspectives, and a multinational, multicultural, and multi-denominational makeup. Their primary mission is to serve expatriates while intentionally maintaining their diverse and inclusive focus.
• International churches are often interdenominational, though some are tied to specific denominations with less diversity in expression.
• They experience high turnover due to people moving in and out of the country and typically have younger leadership, with fewer retirees and post-high school students.
• Congregations vary from small volunteer-led groups to large multi-site churches.
• Their focus is on serving the expatriate community, supporting the national church, and contributing to the local city.
• These churches address the unique challenges of living abroad and prioritize cultural diversity, even when located in English-speaking countries or attended by a majority of nationals.

A missional church is one that engages the entire congregation in God’s mission through contextual, servant-hearted living. Mission means being sent by Jesus with His Kingdom purpose to serve the world. Discipleship is central to this mission, calling the whole church to actively live out their faith. Rather than sending just a few, the missional church sees all believers as sent into the world. It shifts from passive cultural consumption to active, thoughtful engagement with culture, reflecting Christ’s purpose in everyday life.

MICN supports leaders of multicultural international churches in developing creative, context-sensitive approaches to participating in God’s mission. Being missional isn’t a program or method, but a mindset—a way of thinking and living shaped by Jesus’ lordship and Kingdom vision. It involves intentional, whole-church engagement in the world through word, deed, sign, and prayer, adapted to each unique context. Missional is a continuous journey of growth, reflection, and theological grounding—acknowledging that no church is fully missional, but committed to pursuing God’s purposes for individuals, communities, and the world.

MICN exists strengthen individual churches by connecting them to a greater movement, enabling them to be more effective and faithful in their unique contexts and shared calling.