Personal Study and Thought

Pray for the trip, your individual role and how you will relate to everyone on the mission team. Prepare a short testimony that you can share if called upon. Remember that it is important to have your heart prepared if called upon. Always say positive things about your family if you mention them. Some cultures are very family oriented and will not understand if you say negative things. It is not a good idea to use too many anecdotes or jokes. What we might think is funny, another culture might not. Make an effort to gain information about the people that you are going to be ministering to. Read about the area and its people. The more you know, the better you will be able to communicate with and minister to them.

Financial

It is scriptural to ask others for financial help. In many of his letters, the apostle Paul often asked the churches to assist him in his journeys. Trip expenses vary according to the country you visit and the length of your stay. Your team leader will have all the expense information you need. Your lodging, meals and local transportation are included in the above specified amount. Not included are: airline tickets, visa charges, souvenir purchases, and the materials for construction projects. Airline arrangements can be made through the Missionary Ventures Orlando office. Please contact us for additional information. A non-refundable deposit of $100 for the trip is required three months prior to departure.

Exercise

For those of you with a sedentary lifestyle, start exercising (under your physician’s guidance.) Improve your stamina. It is a good idea to notify your family doctor of where you are going.

Medical

Please let us know of any prescription medication you are taking. Keep this medicine in its original container with the correct label and pack it in your carry–on luggage (in case your luggage is lost). Never carry any expired medicine. It is also important to let your MV representative know of any special diets or allergies (i.e. food, etc.) Immunization requirements will be listed on the information sheet specific to your country. Pay attention to your leader’s instructions concerning food and drink. This will protect you from diarrhea or intestinal infection. You may want to bring medicine for diarrhea, motion sickness or aches and pains depending on your personal needs.

Safety

Please use discretion in the amount of cash you carry. All your expenses will be handled by the Missionary Venture representative so you will only need enough money for souvenirs and exit fees. We recommend the use of money belts or secure undergarment pouches. If women carry purses hold them in a secure manner to prevent snatch-and-run type thefts. Wrapping rubber bands around a wallet and keeping it in a front or zippered pocket will make it difficult for a pickpocket to remove. Prior to leaving your home, empty your purse and wallet of all items except: driver’s license, insurance cards, and emergency medical cards. If you do carry a credit card, please make sure someone at home has your account number and the phone number for reporting a lost or stolen card. In general, do not take expensive watches, jewelry, cameras, or other items. If confronted by someone, use your head, do not fight, surrender valuables. Remember, nothing you may lose is worth your life.