Global Impact - FAQs about International Missions
"I've never traveled overseas."Great! What better way to experience overseas travel than with a group of Christians from your own church. It can seem frightening to get on a plane and leave what is familiar for the unfamiliar. God may be asking you to step out of your comfort zone. This is part of His plan to grow your faith. Every team is led by a caring, trained and experienced leader who will help you prepare each step of the way. You'll be told what to pack, how to prepare, what shots you need, how to get a passport and even what to expect cross-culturally. You will grow in your faith as you obediently take the next step.
"I don't have the time."
Most of our international trips will be 10 days to 2 weeks. We try to schedule them over weekends so that team members will only have to take 5-8 days of vacation time. Begin now to plan ahead and take a trip with a different kind of purpose.
"I don't have the money."
Where God guides, He provides. As you pray about going, God will lead you in decisions on how to save, make money, and ask for support from friends and family. He will also surprise you with financial support from people or places you would never have imagined. New Covenant may be able to provide some financial assistance. If you need to connect with someone to discuss this, contact the church office.
"I'm not sure what I can do or what I have to offer."
What are your spiritual gifts, your strengths and abilities, your personality and passion? Use them to reach the world. Can you smile, hand out Bibles, speak English, pray, and care about the lost? Your presence and prayers make all the difference in corners of the world where there are no witnesses for Christ. Additionally, your pre-trip training will equip and prepare you for mission trip activities.
"Can I really make an impact without knowing the language and the culture?"
Yes. Although you will be limited without knowing the language and culture, there is a bond of fellowship and connection that will develop between you and the people you are ministering to. In many parts of the world, people are thrilled to practice speaking English -- this can give you many opportunities to share. In other places, prayer walking can lay the groundwork for those who will later be able to learn the language and culture in order to share.
Can I be doing something now to prepare?
Yes. There are several things you can do:
- Pray.
The Holy Spirit will lead you in this process. He may only reveal one step at a time, but God will be faithful to lead you.
- Get Your Passport.
Start on the process now. Even if you are unsure of what trip you will go on or when you will go, get your passport. Download a passport application (http://travel.state.gov) or obtain an application at the passport window at the main post office. (Passport applications require a certified birth certificate.) Many countries will require a visa in addition to your passport. It will be a timesaver to get two additional photos when you get your passport photos.
- Strengthen your spiritual life.
Live out the five purposes of life -- worship, fellowship, discipleship, ministry, and evangelism. Spend time with God through His Word and prayer. Commit to community through a small group. Your continuing spiritual growth will help you be prepared for any mission trip.
- Get information.
Attend an information meeting or call the contact person for the trip you are interested in when a trip is announced. Most of our trips are led by qualified and experienced volunteer leaders. They will give you the details of dates, costs, and the trip project.
If you have other questions, contact:
the church office at 402-484-5033.