Do I have to go through a mission agency (like ABWE) to be a missionary?

Simply put, no you do not have to go through a mission agency. Most churches however tend to give their support to missionaries who are working under the umbrella of a board or agency.

The task to send missionaries to proclaim the Gospel is given to the Church of Jesus Christ . Each local church shares in this task but mission agencies are the tool that local churches use prepare and administrate a missionary for and in service.

These agencies are a great means God uses to guide, counsel, prepare, encourage and support missionaries as they go through the process of considering missions, raising support, and experiencing the joys and trials of serving on the field.