My first exploration into overseas missions was 1980 when Phyllis and I lived with a pastoral couple in rural Jamaica. I think it was an 8-10 day trip in which we visited churches and ministered through encouragement, preaching and teaching. For the past (nearly) 19 years, I have made nearly a hundred trips to our foreign mission fields, not counting domestic missions visits. In my ministry, I promote short-term missions trips (when properly planned and executed) as valuable experiences for (1) the field, (2) the sending church, and (3) the individual. Yes, I know, there is much criticism of STMT (short-term missions trips) today, and some of it is well-deserved. But the cure is to do them better, rather than reject the concept. The CGGC Cross-Cultural Ministries staff is committed to doing everything possible to make your STMT a very positive, God-glorifying, life-changing experience.
Having said that...STMT are demanding. I have made the statement that "I don't go on many missions work trips....because they are a lot of work!" The ones in which I have participated have been very rewarding in numerous ways. But I'm not talking just about "demanding" from the viewpoint of those who go; it's hard work for those who receive the team.
The missionaries and/or national field leaders do an enormous amount of detailed preparation for a visiting team. So many arrangements have to be made to transport, house, feed, protect, equip, and communicate so that teams have the best possible experience. I have witnessed this preparation firsthand and been amazed at how they overcome enormous obstacles (limited supplies, vehicles that break down, roadblocks, money exchange issues, meal planning vs. dietary restrictions, weather, etc.) to serve those who come. "But we send them enough money to take care of all these things! you say?" Maybe that's true but consider this...
While STMT should always complement and enhance ministry (and ultimately be a blessing to the field), the extra work required by missionaries and national leaders to host teams takes most of them away from their primary tasks on the field. The only exception would be those whose job description is focused on hosting teams. Otherwise, teams usually add more work to an already busy schedule. STMT add complexity to a missionary's routine.
Don't hear what I'm not saying...most missionaries I know appreciate visiting teams and want teams. But sending churches and STM teams can do certain things to make their "intrusion" into the life of the missionary more enjoyable. Here are some suggestions:
1) In your pre-trip communication with the missionary or field leader, ask: "is there something you want or need that we can bring along?" Sometimes returning teams don't even have to ask; they know from experience what the missionary appreciates.
2) begin early in your planning stages to pray for the missionary, field leaders, and national staff who will host you. Pray that your team will be a blessing rather than make their lives more difficult.
3) financially support the missionary or national leader. If you are already invested in their lives and ministry, it is easier for them to view your visit as a partnership rather than an intrusion.
4) express interest in their ministry as well as their spiritual walk with Christ. They are not just tour hosts or culture guides; they are sharing the fruit of their ministry with you. Let them know you appreciate them for who they are in Christ and how they serve Him (and you).
5) trust their advice on cultural and personnel issues. They know from experience what is acceptable and who can be trusted. They know the ropes and what can trip you up. Value their insights.
6) always go as a learner, no matter how many times you've been there! On every STMT, God wants to teach us something more about (1) Himself, (2) His work in a particular place and culture, and (3) ourselves. Always be on the look-out for what God wants to teach you in each of these three areas.
The work is always worth it when we're doing His work His way. May your next STMT confirm that truth in your life.
