Best Practices for Summer Missions Trips

This guide outlines best practices for conducting effective Summer Missions Trips, which are short-term missions that engage church congregations in outreach projects. The document emphasizes the importance of establishing a clear theology of short-term missions before planning any trips. It details the process of selecting appropriate ministries to partner with, ensuring alignment in theology, size, and financial stability. A Vision Team is recommended to assess potential partnerships well in advance. The guide also discusses the selection of trip participants, highlighting the need for thorough applications, background checks, and clear communication about trip details. Additionally, it stresses the importance of designing trips that benefit both the ministry being served and the participants, while maintaining a balance between support and sustainability. Travel planning is also addressed, recommending early arrangements to mitigate challenges associated with group travel. Overall, the guide serves as a comprehensive resource for churches aiming to maximize the impact of their Summer Missions Trips.