Going on a mission trip is a transformative experience. When youth have the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that improve the living conditions in impoverished communities, it shows them how much they can impact and be impacted by other people’s lives. Mission trips are also a way for youth to learn about and live out the Christian call to service and loving their neighbors. We do not go on mission trips simply because we can; we go because we recognize and embrace God’s love for us and God’s desire for us to share that love with others by being in community together.
The YG mission trip is 10 days long and the destination communities are sites that are typically unfamiliar to the youth of the north shore. There is an emphasis on connecting with a community and building a relationship between the youth and that community. The program on the mission trip includes group work projects, interactions with community members, prayers, group reflection time and worship. With a balance of work and fun the trip is designed to give participants a changed perspective on their world.
TEN COMMANDMENTS for Mission Trips
- Thou shall observe all mission trip rules.
- Thy body shall not leave thy group or team.
- Thou shall not trespass on thy neighbor’s body or self-esteem.
- Thou shall not puff a weed of any kind nor space out on any pills or drink.
- Thou shall keep thy space clean.
- Thou shall adhere to the principles of Group Think.
- Thou shall report any injury, illness or serious problem to a trip advisor.
- Thou shall be with a buddy at all times.
- Thou shall respect all of God’s creation.
- Thou shall be Ok! Nay excellent in the eyes of our God.
Summer 2008 Belize Mission Trip