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You’ve probably heard the phrase, “It’s never too late.” And when it comes to saying “yes” to Jesus and stepping into missions, that’s absolutely true. But what about YWAM’s Discipleship Training School (DTS)? Is there an age limit or a “too old for this” moment?
You’re never too old to follow Jesus, and you’re definitely not too old for missions. But before you start Googling “DTS with orthopedic mattresses,” let’s explore your options.
What is DTS?
Discipleship Training School (DTS) is all about growing deeper in your relationship with Jesus, discovering your calling, and getting hands-on experience in missions. There’s worship and prayer, biblical teachings, outreach, and community - a chance to step out of your comfort zone and let God shape your heart for His Kingdom.
Now, let’s be real: Most DTS programs have a younger vibe. Think dorm living, late-night hangouts, and plenty of energy. But the good news? DTS isn’t just for one age group. It’s for anyone who’s ready to say “yes” to Jesus and take the next step in their faith journey.
Am I too old for DTS?
What's the typical age for DTS?
Well, the standard DTS programs are often geared toward young adults aged 17 to 25 - people who want to know what to do with their lives (find their calling), who are figuring out the independence of adult life and eager to experience more of the world.
But here’s the thing - while a typical DTS might feel a bit fast-paced (or noisy) for some, that isn’t the only option.
What if I’m Older? Are There Other DTS Options?
DTS can also be the perfect program for when you’re wanting to make a missional change or a refocus in your life; for adults who are making a career change or are stepping into retirement, for couples and families discovering missions together. DTS can be a new beginning in any stage of life. And programs like Crossroads DTS or All Generations DTS are specifically designed for people with a bit more life experience. These schools bring together individuals who’ve walked through different seasons and have wisdom, skills, and stories to offer.
So, no, you’re not too old for DTS. But you might want to opt for a specialized DTS program.
These specialized DTS programs are ideal for:
✔ Adults making a career shift
✔ Couples and families exploring missions together
✔ Retirees looking to serve in global missions
✔ Anyone seeking a deeper faith journey later in life
God’s Calling Has No Age Limit
Remember: God doesn’t set an age limit on obedience, faith, or calling. The Bible is full of people who obediently responded to God’s calling later in life:
- Abraham was 75 when God called him to leave his home country
- Moses was 80 when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt.
Your life experience is not a barrier; it’s a gift. You bring things younger people can’t in the same way - wisdom, patience (well, most days), and a perspective that only comes with time. Programs like Crossroads DTS or All Generations DTS exist because there’s a unique and powerful role for people like you in missions!
Missions is not just for the young and energetic - it’s for the faithful.
Whether it’s mentoring young missionaries, serving in your unique skill set, or simply showing up with a willing heart, you have a role in the Great Commission!
Ready for your next step?
If you’ve been feeling a nudge (maybe even a shove) to step into missions, don’t let age hold you back. Pray about it. Ask God where He’s calling you. And then get active.
If a DTS sounds like the right next move, check out all your options including Crossroads DTS or All Generations DTS. These schools are designed with you in mind - spaces where you can grow deeper in your faith, learn practical skills for missions, and connect with a Jesus community eager to make a difference in the world.
Let's take a deeper look at some DTS options:
Crossroads DTS
A Crossroads DTS (CDTS) is a Discipleship Training School designed for people who aren’t in the typical just-out-of-high-school stage of life. It’s for those who are a bit older (often 30+), but some schools welcome younger participants who feel more at home in a multi-generational setting.
What makes it different?
- Life Experience Focus – Many participants are professionals, parents, retirees, or people in a transition season.
- Deeper Discussions – The teaching and small groups often focus on life, family, calling, and missions from a more mature perspective.
- Family-Friendly Options – Some CDTS programs are designed to better allow families to attend together.
- Still Missions-Focused – Just like any DTS, it includes a lecture phase and an outreach phase, preparing people to serve in missions long-term or deepen their faith for wherever God leads.
It’s perfect for someone thinking, "I love Jesus, I want to grow, and I want to do something with my life, but am I too old for DTS?"
Crossroads DTS at YWAM Grimerud in Norway
Crossroads DTS at YWAM El Paso/Juárez in USA/Mexico
Crossroads DTS at YWAM Kona in USA
Crossroads DTS at YWAM Nelson in New Zealand
Couples DTS
A Couples DTS is specifically designed for married couples to grow in their relationship with God and each other while exploring missions. While you could do any DTS as a couple, this version is more intentional about integrating marriage into the journey.
What makes it different?
- Marriage-Focused Content – In addition to the usual DTS topics, there’s extra teaching on marriage, communication, and serving God as a team.
- Couples Community – You’re surrounded by other married couples who are also pursuing Jesus and missions together.
- Guidance for Missions as a Couple – Special mentoring and discussions help couples navigate their unique calling in missions.
It’s a great option for couples who want to grow spiritually while strengthening their marriage, whether they’re newlyweds or have been married for years.
Couples DTS at YWAM Wiler in Switzerland
Couples DTS at YWAM Matamata in New Zealand
Family DTS
A Family DTS is a Discipleship Training School designed for families who want to grow in their faith and explore missions together. It’s similar to a regular DTS but structured to include both parents and kids in the journey.
What makes it different?
- Family-Friendly Teaching – Parents go through the DTS lectures, while kids have their own age-appropriate discipleship program.
- Living Arrangements for Families – Instead of dorms, families get their own housing.
- Outreach for the Whole Family – Kids don’t get left behind! Outreach locations and activities are chosen with families in mind.
- Parenting & Missions Focus – Some Family DTS programs include teaching on raising kids in a faith-filled home and doing missions as a family.
It’s a great option for parents who feel called to missions but don’t want to wait until their kids are grown to take that step.
Family DTS at YWAM Matamata in New Zealand
Family DTS at YWAM Grimerud in Norway
Family DTS at YWAM Chico in USA
Family DTS at YWAM Kona in USA
Family DTS at YWAM Rancho Abierto in Mexico
50plus DTS
The 50Plus DTS is a Discipleship Training School (DTS) specifically designed for people over 50 who want to deepen their relationship with Jesus and engage in missions. It’s similar to a regular DTS, focused on knowing God and making Him known, but tailored for a more mature age group.
What makes it different?
- Life Experience Matters – This DTS values the wisdom and experience older participants bring.
- Slower Pace & Comfortable Environment – While still adventurous, it's structured to be less intense than a youth-focused DTS.
- Intergenerational Community – You’ll likely have opportunities to connect with younger missionaries while being in a group of peers.
- Calling & Purpose – Many participants are in a season of life where they’re asking, "What’s next, God?" This DTS helps answer that.
After the lecture phase, there's still an outreach phase—because God’s mission isn’t just for the young! Some schools even focus on strategic ways to serve in missions later in life, like mentoring younger missionaries or using professional skills abroad.
50plus DTS at YWAM Wiler in Switzerland
All Generations DTS
An All Generations DTS is a Discipleship Training School designed for people of all ages: young adults, older adults, couples, and even families. Unlike a typical DTS that’s mostly 18-25-year-olds, this one intentionally brings together a mix of generations to learn, grow, and do missions together.
What makes it different?
- Multi-Generational Community – You’ll have young people, older adults, and sometimes families all in the same school.
- Rich Discussions – A mix of life experience and fresh perspectives makes for deeper conversations and learning.
- Inclusive Outreach – Teams are built to include different generations, showing the world what it looks like when all ages serve God together.
It’s a great option if you’re looking for a diverse DTS experience where you can learn from and be encouraged by people in different life stages.
All Generations DTS at YWAM Matamata in New Zealand
The Great Commission isn’t limited by age.
It’s a call to everyone - including you!
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Where Can I Do DTS? Everywhere
I’ve met so many people who think DTS only happens in one place… usually Kona, Hawaii. But here’s the wild thing: DTS is literally everywhere.
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