Set Goals for the Trip

Challenge the go-ers to "not only humble themselves through service, but to share their faith while doing so. A work camp without testimonies and evangelism is mute Christianity." (Mission Frontiers, January 2000 issue)

Also, be careful that the trip goals and plans primarily reflect what is needed on the field rather than what you think the team needs to experience. Even in missions, when serving others, the American tendency is to be self-focused. Be aware of that tendency and work to avoid it.

Consider the following types of goals:

• Establish evangelistic goals
• Consider goals for each group of participants
• How many people will the team influence and how does that impact what the team needs to bring?

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Set Key Details for the Trip

Consider the following:

• Why should a team go on a trip?
• What influence has God already exerted within the area you intend to go?
• What types of ministry, activities and work will the group do?
• When will the trip take place and for how long?
• How large will the team be?
• What will the trip cost? Establish a preliminary team budget
• When will you set aside time for trip planning and team training?
• What training and resources can you leave behind for a long-term impact?
• What qualifications do team members require (any special skills or gifts)?
• How will you select those Who will be team members on the trip?

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Helpful Hints

The following ideas may help when considering the goals and the preliminary details of a trip:

• Get the key concepts down
• Focus on those you will visit
• Seek to build long-term ministry relationships and commitment to missions
• Be aware of the difference between "dependence" and "empowerment"

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