Why go on mission trips when there is so much to do here?
Jesus told us to go and be witnesses to the ends of the earth. (Acts 1:8) Our mission at Westside is to “To bring the hope of Christ to all people.” That means here in Gainesville, in Florida, in North America and all around the world.
Can anyone go on a mission trip?
Check out our Missions Brochure to see our planned trips and what is available. Each trip has different needs and if God is calling you to go, you can find the trip for you. “Without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” Hebrews 11:6
How much does it cost?
introText = Most international trips cost between $2000-$3000. But don’t let that discourage you. We encourage our team members to raise support and we will give guidance regarding ways to do that. Step out in faith and watch God work! Over and over again, we have seen God provide for those who commit to go.
What is covered in the cost of the trip?
introText = There is a Fact Sheet put out by the leader of the trip with specifics of what is included in the cost of the trip. Typically, all food, lodging, in-country expenses, transportation and ministry expenses are covered in the cost of the trip. Passports, medication and immunizations are some examples of what is not covered in the cost of the trip.
Are there financial resources from the church?
introText = Applicants are expected to raise 100% of their financial need for the trip. This can be done through prayerful recruitment of financial partners, sending our support letters and raising the money. There are scholarships available after all other avenues are exhausted which are typically about $500-700, depending on the total cost of the trip.
Is it safe?
Each applicant should prayerfully consider the trip they want to go on and what will be required of them in the field. There are dangers and risks in our daily lives as well as on the mission field. Some considerations are travel accidents, illnesses and communicable diseases. Team meetings will prepare you as much as possible in safety and security measures. A trip to the County Health Department for immunizations prior to departure will also educate team members on health issues for their particular country.
What will I eat?
Sometimes, teams eat in local restaurants. The missionaries may prepare the meals also. Local people may prepare meals for teams or teams may prepare their own meals at a guest house. The missionaries in the field are the most knowledgeable about what is safe to eat so teams follow their lead and advice.
Where will I sleep?
It varies with the trip but it can be in a tent, a hotel, a missionary guest house, on a boat or maybe even in a very nice bed!
Do I have to speak the language?
It is not always necessary that you speak the language. Oftentimes, there are interpreters in the field as well as the missionaries living there that know the language. Learning some local words is always helpful though and teams usually prepare beforehand by learning a few essential words or phrases.
I have never taken FAITH—Can I go?
Absolutely! You will be thoroughly prepared for your trip by attending all of the pre-trip meeting with other team members. You will learn how to share your testimony, how to share the Gospel and how best to communicate with the people. “The one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.” John 3:34.
What kind of trips are offered?
The brochure gives a summary of all trips that are planned, the dates, and the leader. All trips have a platform whether it is medical, church-planting, construction, children’s ministry or prayerwalking. A brochure is available online or can be picked up in the lobby by the Missions Room.
What do I need to do to sign up?
Contact the leader listed in the brochure. Pray about where God would have you go and fill out the Westside Volunteer Application. The completed application should be given to your leader along with a non-refundable $200 deposit which will be credited to you trip expenses.
If I can’t go, how can I be involved?
Prayer support is imperative! Financial support is imperative! You can enable others to go by praying and giving to those that can. The Bible says that every good gift comes form our heavenly Father. (James 1:17) We love others because he first loved us and we show our love for others by being a part of missions in whatever capacity we can.
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