Many people’s first taste of mission is on a short-term trip.  These either best as part of a 2-4 week team or on a solo placement which can last up to two years.  These and are usually safe, well-planned events organised by experienced and reputable mission agencies.  We recommend that people start with a short team trip, and work their way up to a longer placement once they’ve got the feel of short-term mission.  Here we explain how to find the trip that works best for you – and how to survive the experience!

You can find some helpful books listed on our reading page, and also some articles to download.  Just click on the orange link below to go to a page exploring the relevant subject.

Can God really use me?  Many people doubt that they have anything significant to contribute on a mission trip, but yes God really can use you!

How can I be sure God wants me to go?  Finding a sense of calling is often hard, so here’s how to go about it.

This isn’t really mission, is it?  Some people call it Christian tourism, nothing but a good excuse to get other people to pay for a great holiday.  Here’s what we think.

What, where, with whom?  How to find the trip that works for you.

Can’t I just do my own thing?  We explain why solo trips aren’t always advisable.

I don’t fancy being part of a team.  Why being part of a team is a good idea, even if you’re not a team player.

How do I raise support?  One of the biggest challenges is finding the money – and other sorts of support.

101 things to do before you go.  Once it’s definite that you’re going, what are all the practical things you need to organise?  Here’s our handy checklist!

Preparing yourself.  Don’t think for a minute you can just go, and figure it out when you get there!  You need serious preparation.

Learning about language and culture.  How to win friends and influence people.

Suggested kit list.  It’s not easy knowing what to pack if it’s your first time, so here are some tips culled from our years of experience.

How to stay alive.  A checklist of all the things you need to do to take care of your health.

Security issues.  Your team leaders should know how to avoid turning your trip into a disaster, but you can be prepared by reading our suggestions.

Maintaining support while you’re overseas.  Silence isn’t golden, and out of sight doesn’t have to be out of mind.

How to be a good team member.  The key to effective teamwork!

Coming home.  How to prepare for the emotional challenge of coming back to a place that may not feel like home any more.