Most people can't take a year off to volunteer abroad, but
many can, and do, go on life impacting short term overseas mission trips that
last only a week or two.
While taking youth groups, medical personnel, volunteer workers
at an orphanage, or run vacation Bible
School overseas for such
a short time may not seem cost effective or life changing, short term mission
trips make a huge impact on those who go and those they meet overseas.
There are many ways to find a short term mission trip; many
churches sponsor such trips every year, returning to a location where they’ve
established local ties. We usually have our short-term trips schedule by
January of the following year so keep an eye on our website at www.aimission.org for the
latest listing of mission trips.
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| Children's Home in Tenali |
Doing an internet search is also a source of information for
those who want to volunteer in orphanages on a short term mission trip, or do
other volunteer work overseas. Many overseas mission trips involve washing
laundry in the sink, bathroom and shower setups that may be primitive and require
long hours. Others are set up in dormitories and offer regular meals and some
sightseeing opportunities. Look at all the possibilities before signing up with
the first organization on the page.
Going on any type of short term mission trip requires a lot
of preparation. Participants need a passport and, depending on the location,
may need vaccinations against diseases such as yellow fever, or take pills to
prevent malaria. Do not hesitate to ask plenty of questions of the sending organization
about logistics such as sleeping arrangements, meals, work divisions, and even
about getting your visa.
Fundraising for mission trips can be a large part of the
experience. Overseas volunteer work can be expensive; some churches may help
members with the cost of short term mission trips, while others leave
fundraising for mission trips to the individual. Writing letters to friends and
acquaintances asking for donations can difficult, but people do respond.
Fundraising for trips usually has to be completed well before the trip, so
airfare and accommodations can be purchased.
Pack lightly, and be sure to take over the counter medicines
such as aspirin, Benadryl, and antibiotic ointments, because they may be hard
to come by overseas. Since traveler’s diarrhea is almost a given, due to the
change in water and food type, bring lots of Imodium and antacids.
Are such short overseas volunteer trips beneficial?
Absolutely! Participants have their thinking broadened by seeing other
lifestyles firsthand, and have the joy of giving rather than receiving.
Recipients are touched by learning that other people care enough to travel overseas
to serve them. The thanks they give can be quite humbling.
The best way to gain from a short term mission trip is to go
with the right attitude. This means:
1) Leaving the “self-important” attitude behind - No one,
including people overseas, appreciates condescension.
2) Going with reasonable expectations - No one can cure poverty
or severe health issues in a week. But helping even one person has huge
rewards.
3) Learning a few words of the language - Hello, please and
thank you will be appreciated by all.
4) Being prepared for anything - Traveling overseas is
stressful and full of surprises. Be ready for them by staying calm when things
go wrong (and they will).
Overseas volunteer work can be a marvelous experience, or a
horrible one. No one knows exactly what to expect when they go on their first
short term mission trip, and every trip is different. Going with a positive
attitude, an ability to go with the flow and realistic expectations are the
best preparation for a trip that can change lives.
What would your suggestions be for someone going on their first short term mission trip?
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Had a wonderful and blessed time sharing with our brothers and sisters last weekend at First Baptist Church in Black Rock, Arkansas about what God is doing in the lives of the people of India. It was such a joy to spend time with our dear friends Pastor Tony and his wife Angelica in their home and enjoy great Arkansas hospitality. If you're ever in the area stop by one Sunday and visit with them. They would love to have you.
Please keep Alice and I in your prayers as we continue traveling and speaking in different churches throughout Virginia and Maryland. We still have a few Wednesday nights available if you would like us to come for a mid week meeting or even a "Coffee" with your friends in your home. Send us an email to schedule a date.
Our next stop will be in Clifton Forge, Virginia with Pastor Mike Rollins and the congregation of Living Stones Ministries. I will be speaking on November 4th during the morning service. If you happen to be in the area please stop in, say hi. Would love to see you.
Asia International Mission is an
IRS approved 501(c)(3) non-profit ministry.
All gifts are tax-deductible and
100% of donations are used as designated
