MISSION TRIPS
WHY MISSIONS?
There are people all around the world who need help and who do not yet know Jesus. Matthew 9:37 tells us, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few." There are short-term and long-term mission opportunities. Some trips focus on evangelism. Some groups go to support local churches and orphanages. Others seek to share the love of Christ by meeting more basic needs. Communities that face extreme poverty or have been impacted by natural disasters often need more help than their own city can provide. Consider going on a short-term or long-term mission trip overseas or in your country. Not only is this a great way to serve others, but you will find it to be helpful for you too. Sometimes a change of environment and intentional time of serving can help people build a habit of pouring into others. The momentum from the trip can help Christians to serve God and others better back home.
​
​
FINDING A TRIP
TALK TO YOUR CHURCH LEADERS
Churches often have groups going once a year on mission trips around the world. You may also be able to go support some of the missionaries that your church supports.
FIND AN ORGANIZATION
There are missionary organizations with short-term and long-term trips that you can join. Each group has different focuses and outreach techniques, so it is good to find out more about their techniques and goals for the trip. Here are a few good organizations:
​
Youth With a Mission (YWAM) (https://www.ywam.org/get-involved-2/outreach-trips/)
Cru (https://www.cru.org/us/en/opportunities/mission-trips.html)
​
You can also search for trips here:
https://www.shorttermmissions.com/search/
TALK TO YOUR FRIENDS
Some of your friends may have mission trips happening through their church. Some have gone on trips in the past, and could recommend a group or church to go with. You could also get a group together to go somewhere if you have a location and mission goals in mind. Partner with a local church or ministry organizations at your destination location.