“The potential of young people will go untapped if we do not give them opportunities to make a difference in the world.”
Paul Borthwick, Youth and Missions
Gabriel Publishing, Waynesboro, Georgia
1998, pg. 30.
ACSI encourages member schools to develop short-term mission (STM) programs, where there are opportunities for students and staff to go on short-term mission trips together. STM programs can be integrated into the instructional program and the life of a school to encourage students to grow in their faith and knowledge of God, serve, and learn more about the world.
ACSI Short-Term Mission Trips
ACSI's own STM program has changed and delivery of services will look a bit different in 2012–13. Stay tuned for more information, which is coming soon!
What Should a School Look For in a Trip?
We encourage schools to go on STM trips that provide an opportunity for students (and adults) to:
- articulate and share their faith
- know God more intimately
- see God at work in the world and participate in it with Him
- be open to God’s leading in their lives
- gain greater confidence in serving the Lord and others
- make new friends
- give hope to those in need
- move from being self-centered to being “other” centered
- have an appreciation of the language and culture of other people
- share a global vision in their school and community
- recognize their own personal responsibility for impacting the world for Christ
Things to Look for in a Short-Term Mission Organization
- Planning and coordination of trip schedule of activities (before going and in-country)
- In-country lodging, meals and transportation
- Experienced person who accompanies team or greets and hosts upon team's arrival
- Training materials for the team leader and team members
- Medical, liability, and emergency assistance insurance
- Registration of your team with the USA State Department
- Interpreter(s) (if needed)
- Materials and skilled laborers (if needed) for a practical work project
- Good safety record
- Positive reviews and testimonies
- Help with international airline travel arrangements (especially if you are not experienced)
- Help with visas (if applicable)
For consultation regarding STM trips contact ACSI