Going on a short-term missions trip can be a life- and faith-transforming experience. It can enrich the way you view the world. It will cause you to rely on God more fully. It is an opportunity to develop deep relationships with your team and the people you serve. A short-term missions experience can also involve weeks of physical and spiritual distress. An unprepared team can wreak havoc on each other and the people they intend to serve. To get the most out of such a missions trip, you need to go prepared. Whether you are going on your own or with a team, the keys to preparation are here in Tim Dearborn's workbook. It includes You'll get a biblical perspective on the world, gain crosscultural understanding and even prepare for reentry when you return. If you are planning to go on a short-term missions trip, don't leave home without working through this book!
Tim Dearborn served for ten years as director for faith and development at World Vision International. He has also served as director of the Lloyd John Ogilvie Institute of Preaching and chair of the board for the International Fellowship of Evangelical Mission Theologians, as well as a pastor and professor of theology, mission, and social ethics. His books include Beyond Duty: A Passion for Christ, a Heart for Mission and The Local Church in a Global Future. Tim lives in Seattle with his wife, Kerry.
I read this book in preparation for a cross-cultural trip with students. I have traveled quite a bit for work, ministry, and personal fulfillment, so I didn't expect much from it. I was surprised at how helpful the questions for introspection were in preparation for the trip and in reflection after I returned home. it is an easy read, but helpful ... especially for a first-time journey to do ministry.
This book is invaluable to those planning a short-mission trip. It prepares you mentally, emotionally and spiritually for your trip. In addition, there is a section devoted to your return, allowing you to process your experience. Highly recommend!
This book is a superb book to use to prepare a team to go overseas. Very insightful and full of exercises and questions to get the team ready for their overseas experience.