Older Trip Training Manual for Churches

TEAM LEADER MANUAL

“Reaching All The World’s People” Matthew 24:14

LIBERTY BAPTIST CHURCH Hampton, VA

April 1, 2003

Table of Contents Team Leader & LMC Associate Information Page 1 Sign in sheet Page 4 Informational Meetings - Deciding to go Page 5 1st Meeting – Finances Page 7 Team member check list Pages 12 Trip meeting schedule Page 13 Turn in “Release of Rights” Page 14 Turn in “Trip Finance Form” Page 16-17 Turn in “Short-term Mission Trip Information Form” Page 20 Turn in “Acknowledgment of Risk Form(s)” Pages 22-23 2nd Meeting— LBC Strategy & Team work Page 28 3rd Meeting—Testimonies Page 36 4th Meeting—Bridge Building Page 46 5th Meeting—Taboos Page 52 6th Meeting—Servants Heart Page 58 7th Meeting—Travel Protocol Page 62 8th Meeting—Getting ready to go / packing party Page 65 Appendix 1 On-site Tasks Appendix 2 Trip Account Form Appendix 3 Note pages

Table of Contents

Team Leader Contact Sheet Congratulations on being a TEAM LEADER! An exciting journey awaits you and your team in the coming months. Our goal is to make the trip and trip planning as easy as possible, so please feel free to contact me or any of the associates if you need anything. Kenny McLemore Associate Pastor of Missions Associate Pastor of Missions Kenny McLemore 826-2110 Your Associate: ____________________________ Home: _____________ Other: _____________

Other Key Information:

1

Role of Trip Associate

1. To work with and assist the trip team leaders of mission trips to assure that the trip

leader is able to effectively prepare and lead the team. The LMC associate will have the following responsibilities.

a. Lead information meeting; Help develop an information campaign to share

about the trip with LBC people. b. Help determine a team meeting/training schedule and assist the team leader

in developing a schedule for various deadlines. Deadlines would include: 1. Payment schedule for money 2. Passport deadlines 3. Visa deadlines 4. Insurance deadlines 5. Other things

c. Make sure the trip team leader understands who has what responsibility. d. Help the team leader to understand all the financial policies and to transmit

those to the team. e. Work with the trip team leader in using the LBC trip training manual. This will

also include country specific training. f. Assist the team leader in connecting with the Administrative Assistant to the Associate Pastor of Missions in purchasing airline tickets, making hotel reser-

vations, and other logistical necessities. g. Provide information as needed to the team leader on how the team can secure

passports, visas, and other documents necessary for entering the country. h. Hold the trip team leader accountable for collecting all necessary documents

that require a team member’s signature.

2

Role of a Trip Team Leader

1. Conduct team meetings 2. Be the contact to the Administrative Assistant in determining how much money has been

raised by each team member and report back to the team. 3. Work with the LMC Trip Associate to determine a team meeting/training schedule and the

schedule for various deadlines. Deadlines would include: a. Payment schedule for money b. Passport deadlines c. Visa deadlines d. Insurance deadlines e. Other things

4. Collect all paperwork and necessary documents from the team members, including but not limited to the following:

a. Financial Forms b. Release Waivers c. Release of Rights d. Other

5. Hold team accountable for attendance and training. 6. Lead the team while in country and hold them accountable for their behavior while on the mission trip. 7. Complete a financial report upon the return from the trip. Turn in all money and receipts

to the Administrative Assistant for Missions.

3

4

SIGN IN SHEET Name Address Phone E-Mail

Informational Meetings There will be one or two Information Meetings before each trip. The main objective of the Information Meeting is to offer an overview of the mission trip to the interested per-son. Have copies of sign in sheet (page 4) ready for all meetings. The agenda is generally as follows: Agenda ! Opening Prayer ! Scripture Reading – (Verse for the trip) ! Overview of the Missions

! Where are we going? ! When are we going? ! Why are we going? ! What can we do to help while we are there?

! Brief Discussion of Logistics

! Volunteer Application ! Cost and deadlines ! Fund Raising Letter & Donor List ! Meetings ! Health Considerations ! Preparation ! Passports/Visa (if applicable) ! Insurance ! Policy and Procedures ! Accommodations ! Meals

! Go over “Deciding to go” p6 (MBP p2) ! Questions? ! Once the teams are formed training will begin.

! Training will consist of no fewer than eight one and a half hour sessions ! Normally the training will be held on Sundays from 3:30-4:45. Other arrange-

ments can be made if the team is involved in other church activities during the prescribed time slot.

*If a video of the last mission trip in this country is available view this first. *You must have a valid passport (valid for 6 months) to apply for a visa

5

Deciding To Go On A Short-term Mission Trip

Applicant’s Responsibility

! Applicant is to pray and seek God’s will regarding participating in a trip. ! Decide which trip you feel led to participate in. Ask is it a calling by God? (Mark 6:7,12) ! Carefully and honestly answer each question on the application. ! Give special attention to the questions concerning spiritual gifts. ! Make a commitment that, if selected, you will attend all the training meetings. ! Obtain a Passport, if needed, at least 45 days prior to departure of an overseas mission trip.

6

First Team Meeting Member Book Page (MBP3)

Agenda ! Opening prayer ! Scripture reading on the Biblical basis for missions: Matthew 28:16-20 ! Introduction of those present ! A detailed overview of the mission

! Where are we going? Cultural Sensitivity Health Considerations Accommodations Meals ! Why are we going?

! What is the Mission task?

! Brief discussion of logistics

! Review the “Team Member Check List” P12 (MBP 4)

! Meeting Schedule & Attendance Policy P13 (MBP 5)

! Finances ! Fund Raising Letter ! Create a List of Perspective donor Names and Addresses ! Alternate Fund Raising Ideas ! Financial Policies and Procedures Agreement ! Turn in Financial Form P16 (MBP 8)

! Turn In—Volunteer Application & $100 deposit due ! Review

! “Short Term Trip Form” P 20 (MBP 12) ! “Release Form” P 22-23 (MBP 14- 15)

! Preparation through reading Scripture,

Materials & Journal Assignment ! Question time ! Adjourn with Prayer

Team

Meeting 1

7

Team Member Check List #1 (for Team Leader)

8

Name $100 Deposit

1st Pay-ment

2nd Pay-ment

3rd Pay-ment

Pass-port

Dead-line

Insur-ance &

Visa Info.


9

Name $100 Deposit

1st Pay-ment

2nd Pay-ment

3rd Pay-ment

Pass-port

Dead-line

Insur-ance &

Visa Info.


10

Name Info. Sheet p19

Liability Form p21-22

Finan-cial

form p18

Release of

Rights p63

Shots: Hep. A Hep. B Tetnus Yellow Fever

Testi-mony p31


11

Name Info. Sheet p20

Liability Form p22-23

Finan-cial

form p16

Release of

Rights p14


Testi-mony p39

Action Due Date Complete $100 Deposit

First Payment

Second Payment

Third Payment

Passport Deadline

Insurance and visa information

Information Form p20 (MBP12)

Liability Release Form p22-23 (MBP14-15)

Release of Rights p14 (MBP 6)

Financial Form p16 (MBP 8)


Testimony p39 (MBP 36)

Team Member Check List

12

Mission Trip Meeting Schedule

Date Time Room

First Meeting __________ _______ __________ Second Meeting __________ _______ __________ Third Meeting __________ _______ __________ Fourth Meeting __________ _______ __________ Fifth Meeting __________ _______ __________ Sixth Meeting __________ _______ __________ Seventh Meeting __________ _______ __________ Eighth Meeting __________ _______ __________ Location: _________________________ Trip Leader: _______________________ LMC Trip Associate __________________________ NOTE * After you complete this form, please copy and submit copy to the Associate Pastor of Missions for church calendar. These dates are not confirmed until the Administrative Assistant or Associate Pastor of Missions has received an approved copy of the Calendar Request.

13

14

*** Release Of Rights *** We live in a world that is full of rights. Our particular culture is one where we take pride in our rights. The rights of individuals are constitutional; however as we see the de-manding of individual rights increase, we see more of the moral fiber of our society de-crease. Our Lord Jesus Christ laid down His rights to the heavens and all His glory to become a man and to serve, not to be served (Philippians 2:5-11; Mark 10:45). Consider laying down your rights on this mission trip, not to lay them down for better or worse, but to entrust them to the Lord or transfer the responsibility of them to a place of safekeeping. These rights may seem reasonable but could still cause dissension on a short-term mission trip. Take time to search your heart and willingly surrender your rights to the Lord. ROMANS 12:1 I Give Up My Right To: I Entrust To God For : - A comfortable bed - My strength and endurance - Three meals a day - My health and strength - Familiar food - My likes and dislikes of food - Dressing fashionably - My security - Seeing results - My purposes and fruit in His timing - Control of myself - My need for His righteousness - Control of others - My need for His Spiritual control - Control of circumstances - His workmanship in others - Pleasant circumstances - My circumstances - Making decisions - His purposes in making me Christ-like - Taking up offense - The privilege of suffering for His sake - Being successful - His sovereign hand on my life - Being understood - My security in His love - Being heard - My reputation - Being right - My need for recognition

I give God permission to do anything He wishes to me, with me, in me, or through me that would glorify Him. Signature Date

Laying down your rights will be key to your experience and effectiveness.

Money Policy For Level 1 Short-term Mission Trips

It is our belief that if God is calling a person to go on a short-term mission trip, then He sup-plies the money. This process of watching God supply through the most unlikely ways is part of spiritually growing and trusting God. We also know that if God is calling a person to go on a trip, it should not just be at everyone else’s expense. Our belief is if a person has the money to go, they will use the provision God has already provided for the trip. That may involve taking money from savings or some-thing else. If a person is unwilling to use their own money then they may need to evaluate their call to go. If a person truly needs to raise support, and God is leading them to do this, then this is fine and acceptable; but please look to your own finances first, then to others. The items listed below are things that are not covered in the price of a trip and should be covered by each participant. If that participant wishes to use raised support money to cover these costs, that can be done as long as the money does not go through LBC. Money com-ing from donors for the purpose of items listed below can not be written to LBC. LBC will not issue checks to cover these expenses even if a receipt is produced.

! Shots ! Medication (i.e. Larium, antibiotics) ! Passports

Each trip will be different as to what is included in the price of a trip. Please talk to your team leader to confirm what the total price includes.

15

Trip Finances 1. Please note the following items concerning money for missions:

A. Applicants are expected to raise 100% of their financial needs. There is limited money

available to help teams that are not able to raise their funds. The Missions Committee will be responsible for determining the division of available funds.

Note: Non-members of LBC are expected to raise 100% of their own funds. No monies from the LBC Budget will go to nonmembers.

B. Applicants will be required to complete their funding per the payment schedule.

C. If an applicant’s financial support is channeled through LBC and they raise more than

required, or for any reason they cannot participate on the short-term mission trip, that money cannot be refunded to donors. (This is an IRS rule.) The money will be used in the mission trip pool for those on their team who are in need. If a participant cannot go on the trip, it is the volunteer’s responsibility to inform supporters of their inability to participate in the mission trip. The money that has been donated cannot be refunded. This policy applies to non-Liberty members as well. If money has been channeled through LBC, the Administrative Assistant for Missions will be able to give you a list of all team member’s donors. Please call or e-mail in advance for this.

D. Any travel plans or arrangements made by a volunteer, outside of the travel plans for

the team, must be approved by the team leader and the Associate Pastor of Missions.

E. LBC reserves the right to approve or deny all financial support.

F. In order for a gift to be tax deductible, the trip must be sponsored by LBC and any checks written to Liberty Baptist must not have the persons name or purpose written in the comment section on the check.

G. Any money that is raised above and beyond the cost of the trip goes to support the

whole team effort. In the event that the whole team has raised over the needed amount, then the left over money goes to the general trip fund to help others on other trips. Example: If a person raising $2,200 for a $2,000 trip, that $200 goes to the trip fund. If that trip has all they need then the $200 rolls over to another trip.

16

H. Trip participants may not keep cash (money) from a trip if that money has come

through LBC and been issued to cover trip expenses. Money given to trip participants for in country expenses must be fully accounted for and extra cash returned to LBC. This is an IRS rule. Extra money, receipts and trip expense forms must be turned in to the Associate Pastor of Missions or the Administrative Assistant within three weeks of return.

I. Support Guidelines:

(1) Support-raising by short-term or summer workers is restricted to the Missions

Team, individual’s, family, and friends within and outside LBC, and his or her own personal earnings. Solicitation for support may not be made to the gen-eral membership of LBC. This pertains to general announcements to the con-gregation as a whole.

(2) Candidates for support may not use the Adult Bible Fellowship time to solicit funds for their trip. They may, however, share about their work at an Adult Bible Fellowship function with the teacher’s permission.

(3) Special cases, particularly large groups or teams going on short projects, will demand special consideration. The Missions Team will consider such factors as the type of project, the number in the group, whether the project supports other Liberty ministries and other case-specific matters.

I have read, understand, and will abide by these policies:

Name (Print) ________________________________________________

________________________________________________ Signature Date

17

Sample Donation Letters Dear ____________________, I have been given the opportunity to serve as a volunteer missionary in ______________ (country/state) on ____________________ (date). I am now preparing myself physically and spiritually for this trip. I will be on a team of _______ (number) others from my church, Liberty Baptist Church in Hampton, VA. We will minister to the physical, as well as the spiritual needs of the people. The cost of the mission trip is $______________. If you desire to help with the expense of the mission, it would be greatly appreciated. Please make checks payable to Liberty Bap-tist Church, and mail to: Minister of Missions, Liberty Baptist Church, 1021 Big Bethel Road, Hampton, VA 23666. In the memo area, if you designate the financial gift for a spe-cific person, your donation is NOT tax deductible. I must have all monies by ________________________ (deadline date). If you cannot help financially, please be a prayer partner for me as I prepare, and journey to __________________________________(country/state). Love in Christ, Note: When taking a mission trip to a country or people group that is considered level 3, or

medium to high security is required, please check with your team leader on wording for your donation letter.

18

Date Mr. & Mrs. Jones 123 State Street Hampton, VA 23666 Dear Ed & Shirley, I have been given an opportunity to serve on a short-term missionary trip to an Indian reser-vation in New Mexico, from 11-18 August 2000. I will be one of 12 members from Liberty Baptist Church in Hampton, VA participating in this ministry opportunity. The primary pur-pose of this mission trip is to minister to native American Indian families through Vacation Bi-ble School and the sharing of the gospel. Some members of our group will also be helping with the completion of a new church building on the reservation. I am presently preparing myself spiritually and mentally for what is certain to be a demanding trip. The trip will cost each team member approximately $900.00. I would ask that you prayerfully consider the opportunity to participate financially in this mission trip. However, just as important as monetary contributions, I also need your prayer support for my family and myself as I prepare and travel to New Mexico. If you feel led to contribute, please make your check payable to Liberty Baptist Church and mail it in the envelope provided with this letter. In order for your donation to be tax de-ductible, please do not designate the specific trip or my name anywhere on your check including the memo line. You may use the form below to designate your gift. Financial support must be secured by July 1, 2000. Love in Christ, _______________________ Liberty Baptist Church Missions

This contribution is for the New Mexico Mission Project. I have a special interest in supporting ___________________________. Amount $ From: I will be a prayer partner………………………………………………………………. E-mail ____________________________________

19

Short-term Mission Trip Information Sheet

TRIP INFORMATION Location of trip: ________________________________________________________ Dates: ________________________________________________________ Sponsoring church (trip sponsor): _______________________________________________________ PARTICIPANT INFORMATION (To be completed by participant or an authorized guardian) Participant’s name: __________________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ Person to contact in case of emergency: __________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________________________ MEDICAL INFORMATION: (A note from your Physician may be required) List all current: Allergies: _________________________________________________________________ Illnesses: _________________________________________________________________ Physical problems: _________________________________________________________________ Medications: _________________________________________________________________ Name and address of health insurance company covering participant: _________________________________________________________________

20

21

Acknowledgment Of Risk Release And Waiver Form

(Adult)

! I agree to waive any and all rights and claims for damages that I or my spouse may have against the trip sponsor and its agents, employees, and representatives for any and all injury, damage, or loss sustained by the participant arising directly or indirectly out of the mission trip.

! I further agree that, in the event that I should make any claim against the

trip sponsor for damage, injury, or loss arising directly or indirectly out of the mission trip, I will personally indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the trip sponsor and its agents, employees, and representatives against any and all such injury, damage, or loss.

I affirm that I have the right to authorize and agree to the foregoing. I have carefully read and understand this agreement, and have willingly placed my signature below as evidence of my acceptance of all the conditions contained herein. Signature:_________________________________ Date:_________

22

23

Acknowledgment Of Risk Release And Waiver Form

(Minor, under 18) IF THE PARTICIPANT IS A MINOR, THEIR GUARDIAN AGREES TO

THE FOLLOWING: ! I agree to waive any and all rights and claims for damages that I or my spouse

may have against the trip sponsor and its agents, employees, and representa-tives for any and all injury, damage, or loss sustained by the participants arising directly or indirectly out of the mission trip;

! I further agree that, in the event that I, my spouse, the participant, or another

child in my care should make any claim against the trip sponsor for damage, in-jury, or loss arising directly or indirectly out of the mission trip, I will personally indemnify, defend and hold harmless the trip sponsor and its agents, employ-ees, and representatives against any and all such injury, damage, or loss; and

! I authorize the trip sponsor or their representative to obtain any medical treat-

ment for the participant that should appear to be necessary during the mission trip, and I will be responsible for the payment of expenses relating to such ill-ness or injury.

I affirm that I have the right to authorize and agree to the foregoing. I have care-fully read and understand this agreement, and have willingly placed my signature below as evidence of my acceptance of all the conditions contained herein. Signature of parent/guardian:_______________________________________ Date:_______________

23

Personal Preparation Purpose: To examine your daily walk as you prepare for service. Memory/Theme verse: Ephesians 2:10 (NAS) “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”

Prayer Life Luke 11:1-10 - Christ’s example and teaching Psalms 66:18-20 - Confess sin, then pray Philippians 4:6-7 - Don’t worry, pray! The peace of God will keep you

Daily Walk 1. With God

Romans 12:1 - Present yourself a holy sacrifice-expected Romans 12:2 - Don’t be conformed, so you may prove the will of God

2. With Others

John 13:34-35 - Love one another Romans 15:5-7 - One mouth, one mind glorify God, work together, Worship together

Setting Spiritual Goals

1. Growth

1 Peter 2:2 - Desire the Word so you may grow 2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in grace

2. Accountability

1 John 1:5-10 - Walk in the light Romans 14:12-13 - Accountable to God

3. Witness

1 John 1:3 - What we saw and heard we told you 1 Timothy 4:12 - You are not too young or inexperienced

24

Personal Response

1. How should I pray…

Before the trip? _______________________________________________________ During the trip? _______________________________________________________ After the trip? _________________________________________________________

2. Why should I pray? 3. What are my spiritual strengths? 4. How will my strengths and weaknesses affect my service while on this trip? 5. What are my goals to improve my daily walk with God? 6. How do I expect this ministry experience to help me grow spiritually?

25

Personal Responsibility Purpose: To discover the Christian’s personal responsibility of world evangelization. Memory/theme verse: God Reaches Out to Man John 3:16 - God Loves the world, sent His Son Romans 10:12-15 - God is over all, whosoever, how shall they hear Great Commission Acts 1:8 - Power, be a witness, reach out John 20-21 - Jesus sends, as God sent Him Matthew 28:19-20 - Go, make disciples, bring in to local church, Teach I am with you Personal Responsibility Mark 10:45 - Even Jesus came to serve and give His life John 4:35 - Urgency, don’t wait to minister, do it now A Missionary Pattern Acts 13:1-5 - Called to go, went! Church sent! Acts 14:26-28 - Went, witness, accountable to sending church

26

Personal Response 1. Is every Christian a witness? _______________________________ 2. How does witnessing relate to leading someone to Christ?

3. Where is my Jerusalem? ___________________________________

Where is my Judea? ______________________________________ Where is my Samaria? ____________________________________ Where is my uttermost part of the world? ______________________

4. According to John 20:21, in what way does Jesus send us? 5. When should I begin to minister? 6. On this ministry trip, to whom am I accountable? 7. Start a mission trip journal and record all team prayer request and answered prayers.

27

Second Team Meeting (MBP 20)

Agenda ! Opening Prayer ! Scripture Reading – Genesis 12:1-3 (Blessed To Be A Blessing)

! ! Strategy: This is a must and should not be ignored. (P 29) ! Introductions

! Review “Teamwork Factor” information prior to meeting. (P 33) ! As likely members of the developing team, they need to get to know one another.

Have each one tell the group why they feel God wants them to go “on mission”, what other ministries they are involved with at LBC or their church, and if they have been involved in anything like this before. This will take up most of the meeting time, but it will begin building relationships among the members, which will become the “team”.

! Passports/Visas ! Check Host Country to see if Visa is needed ! Give application to those who do not have a Passport/Visa* ! Go over the requirements for a Passport/Visa ! Remind them it may take 6 to 8 weeks to process – do not delay

! Immunization Requirements ! Let members know if and what immunization(s) are required for this trip ! If immunizations are required, pass out consent form to be filled out and brought

back at third meeting ! Beneficiary Team List

! Inform each team member of the short term insurance coverage ! Have each team member fill out the participant list indicating their beneficiary, full

passport name and date of birth ! Forms & Deadlines

! Review deadline dates (Activity & Deadline Schedule) P13 (MBP 4) ! “Short Term Trip Form P 20(MBP 12) ! “Risk Release and waiver” P 22-23 (MBP 14-15) ! Fund Raising Letters should be completed and mailed.

! Share the culture: Have the team members prepare to share a fact they have recently learned about the host country.

! Personnel Preparation & Journal Assignment P 35 (MBP 28) ! Questions ! Adjourn with prayer *You must have a valid passport (valid for 6 months) to apply for a Visa

Team M

eeting 2

28

29

Our Strategy

Mission Statement: To be a strategic missions ministry that trains, equips, and sends disciples into the world to reach the unchurched.

Mission Statement Explanations

Strategic: Romans 15:20-21 This implies that our ministry is focused in areas that have the greatest need for the Gospel. We do not wish to go where there is already a strong Gospel witness or carry out a ministry that is already being done well by someone else. This can apply stateside or internationally. Trains: II Timothy 2:15 Training refers to the aspect of helping people understand why we do what we do and how to do it. We desire to see people who understand why we do what we do so that they are more effective disciples going into the world. Equips: Eph 4:12-13 This is a key statement. We desire to equip people so they are able to use their gifts to carry out strategic missions in which we have sought to train them.

Send Disciples: Matt. 28:19-20 Hopefully this is self-explanatory, but we should be sending people out from this ministry to make disciples. Whether it is short-term sending or long-term sending, we need to be sending.

Our Strategy

I. Strategy for Strategic Portion of the Mission Statement: Strategy #1: In the Missions Ministry we will seek to work in those areas of the world that

have the least access to the Gospel.

Key point: Matt 28:19-20 Panta ta ethne “all the ethnos”

1) International – We will focus primarily, not exclusively, on those areas that have the least access to the Gospel or are considered “closed” areas of the world. Some examples may be:

i. The 10/40 window ii. Communist, Islamic, or other areas dominated by a religion or govern-

ment that would exclude Christianity. iii. Working with the least evangelized in the Americas. iv. Places where church access is limited.

2) Stateside—We will look to go where there is not a strong Gospel representa-tion. Some examples could be but not limited to:

i. Large cities where there is a small evangelical church presence. Areas that have little or no Gospel (Indian Reservations is a good example of this in America.) Strategy #2: Prayer. Our goal is to develop a strong prayer ministry for Missions. Strategy #3: Work in conjunction with other churches at home so we can have a multiplying effect upon missions here in the United States. Our goal here is to see missions work multi-plied across American churches. Examples of such work are:

1) Working within the GCNet (Great Commission Network) to help lead other churches into a networking concept of missions.

2) To be a training church so that we can “ disciple” others in doing missions and helping them become trained in missions work.

3) Work with the SBCV to help Virginia churches do missions.

Strategy #4: We seek to work primarily with churches as a way to effectively reach a cul-ture and minister to the needs of that culture. We believe that the New Testament model is to establish a viable church within a culture as a way to model Christ in our culture and penetrate the culture with the Gospel.

30

Our Strategy

I. Strategy for Strategic Portion of the Mission Statement: Strategy #1: In the Missions Ministry we will seek to work in those areas of the world that

have the least access to the Gospel.

Key point: Matt 28:19-20 Panta ta ethne “all the ethnos”

1) International – We will focus primarily, not exclusively, on those areas that have the least access to the Gospel or are considered “closed” areas of the world. Some examples may be:

i. The 10/40 window ii. Communist, Islamic, or other areas dominated by a religion or govern-

ment that would exclude Christianity. iii. Working with the least evangelized in the Americas. iv. Places where church access is limited.

2) Stateside—We will look to go where there is not a strong Gospel representa-tion. Some examples could be but not limited to:

i. Large cities where there is a small evangelical church presence. Areas that have little or no Gospel (Indian Reservations is a good example of this in America.) Strategy #2: Prayer. Our goal is to develop a strong prayer ministry for Missions. Strategy #3: Work in conjunction with other churches at home so we can have a multiplying effect upon missions here in the United States. Our goal here is to see missions work multi-plied across American churches. Examples of such work are:

1) Working within the GCNet (Great Commission Network) to help lead other churches into a networking concept of missions.

2) To be a training church so that we can “ disciple” others in doing missions and helping them become trained in missions work.

3) Work with the SBCV to help Virginia churches do missions.

Strategy #4: We seek to work primarily with churches as a way to effectively reach a cul-ture and minister to the needs of that culture. We believe that the New Testament model is to establish a viable church within a culture as a way to model Christ in our culture and penetrate the culture with the Gospel.

30

I. Strategy for Sending Strategy #1: Sending people on mission trips. Note: Missions trips are not an end in and of themselves. We view mission trips in 2 ways:

1. To help make disciples in the field. If a trip can help those on the field then we want to do that.

2. Cast vision for people. Our hope is that those going on a trip will see missions is not about a one-time trip but instead about a year round commitment to reach the unreached people of the world.

When sending people on mission trips we have three priority levels of trips. Pri-ority levels are:

i. Priority #1: Our adoption of the CA Unreached People Group. Un-reached means that they have no access to the Gospel. There are no churches and no bibles in their heart language. Many have never heard of Jesus. These trips have priority over the others in time, money, and promotional considerations.

ii. Priority #2: Liberty Partnerships. These are signed, formal partner-ships that we have developed with SBC people around the world with similar strategies of reaching the unchurched in their areas of ministry.

iii. Priority #3: Projects. These are one time trips that we do in conjunction with a missionary or another organization with no promise to go back to the same place. The goal of the trip is to send people into the field to give them a taste of what it is like to be on a mission trip. It is usually a trip de-signed for the person who is just getting their feet wet in overseas travel.

Other Criteria we look at in deciding where to go and who to go with:

! Is this a strategic trip? Does it fit our strategy and contribute to the Mis-sions Ministry of LBC ?

! How does this help us share the Gospel in areas that have no or little ac-cess to the Gospel? ??Will this trip help us cast vision to our people about the nations (The Ethnos) ?

! Does it conflict with who we are as a church or a missions ministry? ! Is there a theological likeness with the person we are working with?

31

· Is the person requesting the trip easy to get along with? · Do they support the work of LBC? · Are they flexible in their approach to the trip?

Strategy #2: Sending of our people to the field, a variety of ways. We desire to

see our own people go deeper into missions service and go wherever they can whenever they can.

i. One of those ways to send disciples out is through the sending of our youth in the Acts 1:8 program. After completing the program, they will go for an extended trip to see the missions life first-hand.

ii. Another way of sending people is as full time workers. That may be through local ministry or international ministry. Usually we try to point them in the direction of the IMB or other SBC agencies.

Reasons we seek to see people go through our mission agencies:

1. It is funded! They do not have to raise their support to go. 2. We are supported by the Cooperative Program. 3. The IMB is as cutting edge as anyone in missions. 4. We are able to better support their work. Since the IMB has a major

strategy of UPG’s we can join with that work in a greater way.

Our Strategy Questions: So what does this mean for this trip? 1. We have a large church that God has placed in a strategic place in our denomination.

(Close to Richmond, MLC, and major airports) 2. We have the ability and desire to go where most churches can and will not go. 3. We have a focused ministry that is seeking to follow God. 4. We will do trips that do not specifically fit our strategy for the purpose of Casting vi-

sion for missions in general. 5. Our hope is that people will get on board with reaching to the ends of the earth

on a year round basis. 6. For those trips not aimed at the unreached, we make no promises of going back to the

same place each year, especially if we feel that it does not fit what we are looking to do.

The hope is that people will see and understand the strategy and see the need of those who have no access at all to the gospel, and join in that effort. If we really desire to see the nations reached then we are most effective if we are strategic. Missions is for God’s glory, not our pleasure. We hope to see people who are willing to be radical in their faith in seeking to help take the gospel to the edge.

32

Teamwork Factor Just what does teamwork mean? What are the traits of a team player? We have come up with four-teen words that form the basis of what we call the “TEAMWORK FACTOR”, traits exhibited by those who are pitching in to do their part for the good of the group. Teachable A teachable spirit creates a noncompetitive environment in which learning and sharing come natu-rally. Teachability gives all members the freedom to make mistakes as they learn. Encouraging Encouraging words enhance the development of a community. What differences do they make? Appreciative What can we appreciate in others on the team? How can we show our appreciation? Motivated Take initiative! Do all things as unto the Lord! (Colossians 3:17,23) Willing Team members may have different levels of strength, skill, and health, but each should be willing to work to the best of his or her capabilities. Willingness also includes accepting uncomfortable condi-tions in the host country. Willingly take on the heat, food, bugs, and germs. Open Be open with what you are learning, experiencing, feeling, thinking, etc. Express both the positive and negative. Your vulnerability with others builds community. Refreshing The times may be tough, heat, sickness, ex-haustion, physical labor, emotional drain, and so on. In those times it will be incredibly re-freshing to have another team member help pick up your spirits! Think about how you can replenish one another on a daily basis. Kindred Spirit There’s a sense of camaraderie as we pur-sue this together. We are all part of the Christian family and we’re all in this to-gether.

33

Flexible Anything can change from day to day. A flexible team member will learn to accept the unexpected as the norm. (This is very important and can make or break a team.) Agreeable Living together in close quarters, sharing crowded bathing facilities and every other aspect of group travel requires everyone to be gracious. Cooperative Share with one another, help and assist one another. Instead of grumbling about problems, propose solutions! Thoughtful What can you do to make a teammate’s day a little easier? Obedient There will be times when the team leader has to “pull rank” and make unpopular de-cisions. A team player will respect the leader’s authority and encourage others to do the same. Relational Get to know the others on your team. Go out of your way to learn about their hopes, their dreams, their history. Get the picture? The “TEAMWORK FACTOR” spells out the difference between a group of isolated individuals and a team of interconnected members.

BE THE TEAM MEMBER YOU WANT OTHERS TO BE

34

35

Personal Preparation

Purpose: To better understand Gods call for Liberty to be more strategic in missions Memory verse: Romans 15:20-21 “And thus I aspired to preach the gospel, not where Christ was already named, that I might not build upon another man's foundation; but as it is written, "THEY WHO HAD NO NEWS OF HIM SHALL SEE, AND THEY WHO HAVE NOT HEARD SHALL UNDERSTAND." 1. Read “Our Strategy” page 28 (MBP20) Based on Romans 15:20-21, II Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 4:12-13, and Matthew 28:19-20 explain the basics of LBC mission strategy. 2. How can that strategy apply to you? 3. What should our response be to these scriptures? Journal Assignment— Record the verses God has been using to teach you during this preparation time.

Third Team Meeting

(MBP 30) Agenda ! Opening prayer ! Scripture reading: Matthew 24:14, “Reaching All The

World’s People” ! Introduction of any new team members ! Distribute list of team members’ address and phone numbers (this now becomes each

team members’ prayer list). It is very important that each member pray by name for one another.

! Discuss on site tasks: video photographer, medic (if you have someone that has exper-tise in this background), music leader, and prayer leader. Each team member should be given a schedule as to when they will deliver the morning devotion (plan on having a 5 to 10 minute devotion each morning).

! Share the culture: team members share an fact they have recently learned about the host country.

! Work available during the trip ! Language skills: practice saying such phrases as, “Hello, my name is…” and “I am an

American,” and “I am a Christian” ! Have the team begin working on their personal testimonies. Advise them to plan to

speak for 5 minutes, after translation this will be a 10-minute testimony. ! Discuss the prayer covenant list P 37 (MBP 31)

! Emphasize the importance of the list ! Explain the prayer letter ! Team members should write their first prayer letter this week

! Discuss: 1. Has everyone applied for a Passport? 2. Have everyone complete forms - including

-IMB Short Term Information Form* (LMC Associate) 3. What the team will be doing, Vacation Bible School, evangelism, etc., and begin planning the items needed to accomplish this such as equipment, craft items, etc. 4. Have team members plan on bringing their ideas to the next meeting

regarding the mission work tasks. ! Financial Matters

1. Discuss Deadlines 2. Update Donations to date.

! Give Date, Time, and Place of next meeting ! Journal Assignment P 42 (MBP 37) ! Adjourn with prayer

*This only applies if they are participating in an International Missions Board Mission Trip.

Team M

eeting 3

36

Prayer Covenant List

THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU WILL DO IN PREPARATION FOR YOUR MISSION TRIP!

James 5:16(b) “…the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” You are responsible for raising a prayer support base of up to 10 people who will pray regularly

(at least once a day) for you during your preparation and training, and daily during the actual mission trip. These must be people whose prayer life you know and trust. They need to be mature Christians

who will take very seriously your prayer covenant with them. They cannot be members of your team, or people who will be on a mission trip at the same time you are on yours.

These people will be contacted at least three times during your preparation/training period by you through prayer letters so you can give them current prayer requests in writing.

37

Example of Prayer Letter To People

On Prayer Covenant List Date Mr. & Mrs. Jones 123 State Street Hampton, VA 23666 Dear Bob and Judy, The Lord has placed it on my heart to be involved in the missions program at my church, Liberty Baptist Church. I have volunteered to participate in a mission trip to Guatemala. This trip will be a medical mission trip, in that we will be setting up medical stations at several dif-ferent sites over the week and providing much needed medical advice and medication. Many of these people have not seen a doctor in their village for several years. We will also be witnessing to each “patient” that comes in. We expect to see approximately 100 people a day. One of the most important things I will need in preparation for and during my mission trip is prayer. I know you are both prayer warriors and I know you have a heart for missions also. I would like to ask you to be in prayer for me, my team, and those whom we will be witnessing to in Guatemala. We will be leaving on _____________ and will be gone for ____ days, returning on _________________. There are _____ members on our team. I am excited to see what the Lord is going to do through this team. I look forward to return-ing and telling you both all about it. We serve an awesome God and I thank Him for you both. Serving Him,

“…the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16b

38

Choose Your Testimony Format

Read the three sample testimonies in the boxes that follow. Then, come back and check the box beside the format that best fits your own story. You can use the Testimony Worksheet that corresponds to this format as a guideline or example. Format 1: Adult Conversion You trusted Christ as an adult. You have a distinct before, how and after. Format 2: Early Conversion, Adult Full Commitment You made a decision for Christ as a child, but your life was characterized by spiritual imma-turity – a lifestyle similar to that of a non-Christian – until you reached a point of crisis and re-committed your life to Christ. Evaluate whether your early conversion experience was genu-ine. If you conclude it was not genuine, then use Format 1 as your model. Format 3: Early Conversion, Consistent Growth You probably grew up with Christian parents and have a strong church background. You may have very little “before”.

39

Developing Your Personal Testimony

Here are practical suggestions for developing the before, how and after sections in your per-sonal testimony. 1. Before

a. Many people’s actions spring out of their unsatisfied deep inner needs. What were one or two of your unsatisfied deep inner needs before you came to know Jesus Christ? Some examples of inner needs are: ! Lack of peace ! Fear of death ! Something missing ! No meaning to life ! Desire to be in control ! Loneliness ! Lack of security ! Lack of purpose ! Lack of significance ! No real friends ! No motivation

b. Non-Christians are usually trying to satisfy their deep inner needs through

unsatisfactory solutions. In the past, what unsatisfactory solutions did you use to at-tempt to meet those deep inner needs? As you develop your testimony, list positive as well as negative solutions you may have tried. Some examples are: ! Marriage/family ! Work ! Drugs/alcohol ! Sports/fitness ! Money ! Education ! Hobbies/entertainment ! Sex ! Wrong friends

2. How

a. Describe the circumstances that caused you to consider Christ as the solution to your deep inner needs. Identify the events that led to your conversion. In some cases this may have taken place over a period of time.

b. State specifically the steps you took to become a Christian. If there is a particular

passage of Scripture that applies here, you may want to use it. Usually you will sim-ply paraphrase it.

40

Include the Gospel clearly and briefly. The Gospel includes:

c. All have sinned ! Sin’s penalty ! Christ paid the penalty ! Must receive Christ

3. After

a. In the before, you expressed your needs and how you tried unsuccessfully to meet them. You now want to briefly show the difference that Christ has made in your life.

b. Conclude with a statement like: “The greatest joy is that I know for certain that I have

eternal life.” The person you talk to will tend to comment on the last thing you say. Often it is natural to move from the testimony into a clear presentation of the Gospel.

41

Write Out Your Testimony The Testimony Worksheet provides questions that will help you get started in writing out your testimony. Select the appropriate format and jot down thoughts for each question on a separate piece of paper. This will give you a basis from which to write your sentences and paragraphs about your own experience. As you write your first draft, refer again to the sample testimony that is most like your own story. Note how the person began the testimony and how he or she made the transitions between the main point. In addition, follow these guidelines:

1. Make it sound conversational. Avoid literary sounding statements. Use informal language. Do not use a lot of slang.

2. Share about what happened to you, don’t preach about what should happen to them. Say “I” and “me”, not “you”. This helps keep the testimony warm and per-sonal.

3. Avoid religious words, phrases, and jargon. Don’t assume the listener knows what you mean by terms such as sin, accepted Christ, or even Christian.

4. Generalize so more people can identify with your story. Don’t name specific churches, denominations, or groups. Avoid using dates and ages.

5. Include some humor and human interest. When a person smiles or laughs, it re-duces tension. Humor is disarming and increases attention.

6. One or two pictures increase interest. Don’t just say, “Bill shared the Gospel with me.” You might briefly describe the setting so a person listening can visualize.

7. Explain how Christ met or is meeting your deep inner needs, but do not commu-nicate that all your struggles and problems ended at conversion.

8. Sound adult, not juvenile. Reflect an adult point of view even if you were con-verted at an early age.

9. Avoid dogmatic and mystical statements that skeptics can question, such as, “I prayed and God gave me a job,” or “God said to me.”

10. Simplify and reduce “clutter.” Mention a limited number of people and use only their first names. Combine information when you can.

a. Poor: “Martha Smith, Nancy Van Buren, and her cousin Jane came by my of-

fice at Digital Binary Components Corporation…” b. Good: “Martha and two other friends talked with me at work one day…” c. Good: “After living in five states and attending six universities, I finally gradu-

ated and got an engineering job.”

11. Avoid examples that do not cross cultures. For example, do not use an example of American Football in a country that does not even know what it is.

Journal Assignment— Enter your testimony into your journal

42

Practicing Your Testimony After you have written out your testimony, you may want to have another Christian read it and make suggestions for improvement. Ask them to point out any areas that you need to explain further and to make sure the Gospel is presented clearly. Then, when you have a fi-nal draft that you like, outline your testimony on a 3” x 5” card. Practice giving your testi-mony with your small group. This will be an excellent opportunity to practice and receive feedback.

Leading Into Your Testimony When you feel comfortable giving your testimony, you may begin to wonder, “When do I share it with a non-Christian?” “How do I direct the conversation so it will lead to presenting my testimony?” You may find the following suggestions helpful.

1. Include some “small talk” before discussing spiritual matters. Discuss family, job, hobbies, interests, etc.

2. Be alert for expressed needs such as family problems or stress on the job. You can use these to show how Christ has helped you through some of the same

areas. 3. Discuss past concerns and needs in your life. “We used to struggle in our mar-

riage relationship” or, “I used to allow the pressures at work to get to me.” “Then I discovered something that made a tremendous difference in my life.”

4. Discuss contemporary situations in the news or in your area. “I saw on TV that drugs are epidemic in our country. It seems that people are trying to find some-thing that satisfies so they are turning to drugs. These same people are saying it does not work.”

5. Build relationships with them. It may take ten minutes, ten hours, ten days or ten months, but build relationships.

6. Don’t condemn them for living like non-Christians, they are non-Christians. Your objective is to share how they can have a better life in Christ.

7. Avoid dogmatic “religious” statements. “Jesus is the answer to all your problems.” He is, but they don’t even know who He is, much less what He can do in their lives.

8. Avoid arguments or moral issues. You can expect non-Christians to have conflicts with clear biblical teaching. Remember, they do not have a valid base from which to make correct moral decisions.

43

The Close When you have shared your personal testimony, you may want to conclude with a statement that causes the person to reflect on what you have just shared. What you say will depend on how this person has been responding to what you have shared. If their response seems positive, you could say something like:

1. “Bill, has anything like this ever happened to you?” 2. “Mary, do you know for certain whether you have eternal life?: 3. “May I share with you some day how I know for certain that I have eternal

life?” 4. “May I share an illustration with you that explains how a person can know

for certain that he has eternal life?”

If their response seems negative or neutral, you could say something like: 1. “If you are interested I would like to share more with you sometime.” 2. “Do you have any questions on what I have just shared with you?” 3. “Well, that is what happened to me. If you ever want to talk about it any fur-

ther, I would love to do so.”

44

How To Share Your Testimony

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15)

One of the most effective tools you have for sharing your faith is the story of how Jesus Christ gave you eternal life and how He has enriched your life. The Apostle John wrote, “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard” (1John 1:3), testify-ing about his relationship to Jesus Christ. When the Apostle Paul stood before King Agrippa (Acts 26), he spoke simply, logically, and clearly about his life before salvation, how he met Christ, and what his life was like after con-version. Paul’s testimony takes three or four minutes to read aloud in a conversational mat-ter. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will learn how to tell others in the same manner about how you came to know Christ. The choice of the right words, the flow of your story, and knowing how to begin and how to end are all important. Testimonies can be prepared on many subjects and tailored to various audiences. The kind of testimony outlined here is designed to give to a non-Christian. It will be best- suited for sharing one-on-one or in a small group. The purpose of preparing a testimony is not to memorize it and give it verbatim, but to help you put into words some of the important and interesting details of your conversion. A testimony serves primarily as a “door opener,” not a “convincing tool”. Many people are not ready to be convinced that they need Christ, but can often be led to talk about the Gospel after hearing a personal testimony. Before, How, and After Paul’s testimony in Acts 26 is a biblical model you can follow in writing your own personal testimony. Paul’s format in Acts 26 is: Lead-in – Verses 2-3 Before – Verses 4-11 How – Verses 12-20 After – Verses 21-23 Close – Verses 24-29

45

Fourth Team Meeting (MBP 42)

Agenda ! Opening prayer ! Scripture reading: Luke 10:25-37 (The Great Commandment) ! Sharing the culture:

! Team members share an item on the host country ! Financial matters:

! Discuss Deadlines ! Update Donations to date

! Preliminary sign-up for on-site tasks: ! What they will be doing ! How they will do it ! What supplies they will need for the task

! Supplies ! What is needed ! Who will order or purchase? ! All spending must be approved by Missions Ministry ! Allow time for shipping

! Language skills: ! Practice personal introductions as discussed at last meeting

! Discussion for this meeting: ! Culture shock – this will take about 30 minutes P 47 (MBP 43) ! Bridge Building P 49 (MBP 45) ! Review Being A Bridge Builder ! Going to be a help not a stumbling block ! Not to be critical ! Not to do it “our way”

! Journal Assignment—What spiritual Gift will you bring to this team. Give scriptures references

! Questions ! Date and time of next meeting ! Adjourn with prayer *If 50% or the cost of the airline ticket, whichever is greater, is not collected 30 days prior to trip depar-ture date, then no airline ticket will be purchased and the entire team’s discounted airfare could be jeopardized.

Team M

eeting 4

46

Culture Shock Definition: “Feeling strange in unfamiliar surroundings, while desiring to return to familiar ones.” There is an initial high level of excitement when going on a mission trip to a foreign country, and you should be, and we hope you are excited about being “On Mission With God.” Some time after the initial excitement, things that were interesting and exotic…can become a source of emotional distress. The response a person has to this emotional distress, can cause a team serious problems…a bad attitude can spread and destroy the mission of love that was prompted by the Holy Spirit, the very reason you volunteered to go on the mission. So, what causes culture shock?

1. You can’t make even the simplest communications ! Language, body language, and basic gestures learned in childhood are sud-

denly ineffective for communicating. 2. Changes in daily routines that required little or no time at home are now quite time

consuming and a source of frustration. Personal hygiene (1 bathroom and 10 peo-ple who have to use it), sleeping in one room with several people on sometimes not very comfortable beds are just some examples of the changes that have to be dealt with.

3. Changes in customs, ways of acting and reacting, create a sense of losing one’s understanding of reality and self-confidence.

Results of culture shock…

1. A stress level of over 400 points. 2. Physical illness. 3. The most serious: Spiritual Depression, which accents our weaknesses and sub-

merges our strengths. This is exactly what Satan wants in order to destroy your witness.

The cycle or stages of culture shock…

1. The tourist phase. 2. The disenchantment phase…this is a crisis point. You must get over this or it

broadens the gap between you and the people you came to serve. 3. You must seek good and positive ways to relate to the culture and the people.

Resolution

1. It comes when we recognize the problem and see clearly the choice to either de-velop a positive attitude or remain negative and withdraw determining to remain a foreigner in a foreign land.

47

Adjustment: Three ways you can adjust:

1. Withdraw into a western setting (i.e. hotel, restaurant). 2. Reject your own culture and “go native.” 3. Or, the best way and only way as a Christian on mission with God…Identify the host culture and work toward the purpose you came for.

“IF YOU LOOK LIKE YOUR PASSPORT, YOU ARE TOO ILL TO TRAVEL”

Anonymous

48

Being A Bridge Builder As a team member, you are “plopped” down in a culture quite different from your own. The behaviors, values and beliefs of the people may differ greatly from those familiar to you. With time you may come to notice the common denominators between yourself and your hosts. But the differences will hit you first. Cultural differences might be pictured in the fol-lowing way. There are two cliffs: On one side is the North American way of life and on the other is the way of life found in the host country. In between looms a large chasm. In order for the two cultures to meet and understand one another, a bridge must be built connecting the two sides.

Imagine your upcoming journey as an apprenticeship in bridge building. You can lay the beam, erect scaffolding and forge cables that make communication between your worlds possible. Surprise your host community with your initiative at bridge building and you will find their hands joining yours.

Building the bridge involves a number of things you can think through before going, as well as others you can work on while you are there. Unfortunately, some people go on short-term trips and never work at building the bridge. They deprive themselves of some very im-portant personal experiences, which tragically limits their understanding and curtails their growth.

Bridge building is an exciting challenge! In fact, you will come to appreciate the world open-ing to you so much that you will continue to build bridges for the rest of your life.

49

Bridge Building Involves Examining Your Stereotypes

All of us maintain certain stereotypes about other people. Some are based on elements of truth. Others grow out of myths or false perceptions. It is unfair to judge or evaluate a per-son based on stereotypes about the group to which he or she belongs. God created indi-viduals who are uniquely different, and should be treated as such. Building the bridge begins with examining stereotypes: the ones you may hold and the ones the nationals may hold about you. Think them through and list a few stereotypes you might have about your host country.

Negative Positive

Inefficient: needing help Interdependent with family ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ When you arrive in the host country, you will be viewed in a certain way just because you are from the United States. Doesn’t seem fair, does it? But is there an element of truth in these views? Think about the stereotypes that follow.

Stereotypes Others Have of People from the United States Negative Positive Aggressive Educated Harshly pragmatic Reliable Tense Strong individuals Discontent Secured better lives Lonely Free of superstition Corrupt Confident Wealthy and materialistic Organized Dominating Loud and obnoxious Overbearing Competitive Selfish/self-centered Attitude of national superiority Preoccupied with efficiency

50

Bridge Building Applications Accepting: Accept the fact that you will not completely understand the people in just one trip. This is just a beginning, so don’t become too frustrated with yourself. Awareness: Be aware that at times you may feel your prejudices. You may become frus-trated with the way things are or the way people behave. Don’t deny the feelings; own them. Only then can you begin to understand the reasons behind them. Why are you frus-trated? Being aware will help you grow in understanding the differences. Listening: Listen more than you talk. You are there to learn, not to instruct. The right to instruct is earned by demonstrating respect. Giving: Give of yourself. Take the initiative in group settings to reach out to the nationals. People can tend to shy away from contact with nationals, especially if they’re not fluent in the language. Go ahead! Take a risk and try to speak the language. People will really ap-preciate the effort. And don’t worry; they’ll forgive you when you mess up. Enjoying: Enjoy the people, their culture and their language. If you don’t take yourself too seriously, you can have more fun. Help create an environment where they can enjoy you, your culture and your language just as you aim to enjoy theirs.

51

Fifth Team Meeting (MBP 50)

Agenda ! Opening Prayer ! Scripture Reading: Luke 4:14-19, 40-43 ! Financial Matters:

! Distribute fundraising information (If applicable) ! Praise reports ! Cover deadlines

! Review Do’s and Taboos P 53 (MBP 51) ! Sharing the culture:

! Team members share an item they have learned about the host country ! Logistics:

! Does everyone have a Passport at this time? ! Does the team need Visas before entry? If so, then the team leader must collect

all passports and shot records, if necessary, at the next meeting and give them to the Minister of Missions (this must be done 60 days before departure). Have team members complete a Visa Application at this meeting (if needed). Carefully follow instructions for Visa application. Give application and passport to the Min-ister of Missions.

! Cover the Airline schedule ! Pre-trip:

! Give out the packing list for this mission and go over items that members need to take. The list is in your mission country folder.

! Review information on your host country ! Language skills:

! Practice John 3:16 ! “My name is ______________.”

! Personal Preparation & Journal assignment P56 (MBP 54) ! Questions ! Give date and time of next team meeting ! Adjourn with prayer

Team M

eeting 5

52

Do’s And Taboos

Eating: When you are in another country, eating becomes more than just a way to receive nourish-ment. It becomes a language all its own, and no words can match it for saying “Glad to meet you … thank you for letting me be here with you.” Mealtime is no time for a “thanks-but-no-thanks” response. Acceptance of what is on your plate is extremely important to the acceptance of your host, the country, and situation in which you find yourself. Often, what is offered constitutes your host country’s proudest culinary achievements. Try to think how you would feel if a visitor in our country refused a bit of your homemade pie or a nice steak! We often become squeamish not because of what we are eating, but the unfamiliarity with what it is. As a “hint” you might want to cut the item into small pieces. (This helps minimize the texture.) You can also try swallowing quickly. Take it Off or Leave it On? What you do or do not wear can be worse than bad taste. Shoes are among the biggest of-fenders. Remember to keep in the front of your mind if it appears that shoes need to be re-moved when entering a person’s home, or even some buildings. If you are unsure, ask your host. They will appreciate your attention to their feelings. Each culture has various reasons for why shoes are offensive. Be alert and be sensitive. Always and forever let your dress be modest, even if you are a little uncomfortable. Tight fitting clothing or too little clothing speaks loudly to the very people you are trying to win to the Lord. Remember your objective for the trip! Comfort is not necessarily part of the deal. Refer to your Release of Rights. Conversation: There are many things that are sensitive to people in another country. Speaking negatively about their religion and their beliefs will immediately become offensive to those people. Re-member to show interest in how they think and believe. When you win their respect and trust, you will then become an effective witness for Jesus Christ.

53

When you are talking about your job, your church, your family, etc., leave off a lot of “I did” or “I know.” This will be as offensive to some cultures as it is to your friends at home. International Misunderstandings! Remember that only Americans can really understand Americans. Be careful in using slang terms that don’t really convey the meaning you are trying to get across. Idioms in our language can be a huge stumbling block to our foreign friends. Avoid using idi-oms in any form. Try to put yourself in the place of someone from another country, and see what would come to mind as these phrases are used: I need it like yesterday! Let’s put on the dog and pony show

Do you read me? It just won’t fly Run of the mill Ball park figure Shotgun approach General rule of thumb The buck stops here Down the tubes Flat as a pancake As old as Methuselah Flying by the seat of your pants Coming up roses Don’t make waves Keep a low profile Raining cats and dogs As nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs

Best Behavior: What we would consider mildly bad manners at home may be seen as cardinal sins to another culture. Some of those habits are:

! Gum chewing (especially during conversation) ! Talking with hands in pockets ! Legs propped up on furniture ! Backslapping ! Etc., etc., etc.

Gift Giving: Different gifts mean different things from culture to culture. Try to rely on the information given to you about your specific country. A good rule to go by in any situation is to keep it simple. Also, when giving the gift be sure to say to the host, "this is just a small way of saying thank you for having me/us here in your country/ministry.” This simple comment can relieve the pressure of your host to give back to you.

54

Gestures – A Risky Language: Hand gestures and body language are risky forms of communications in a foreign country. Expressions on the face and movements of the hands mean something totally different from one culture to the next. It will take practice on your part, but it is best to avoid them completely. Listed below are some differences in meaning of the same gesture.

! When you raise your eyebrows in Tonga, you’re saying “yes” or “I agree.” In Peru you have just said “money” or “pay me.”

! The classic American “okay” sign – the fingers circle – is placed over the nose in

Columbia to signify that the person in question is homosexual. ! In Britain a nose tap means secrecy or confidentiality, but in Italy, it is a friendly

warning.

! In Greece, Italy, and Spain a cheek stroke means “attractive.” In Yugoslavia it means success, but in other cultures it means “ill” or “thin”.

! In Germany using the gesture of a head screw means “you’re crazy.” It is often

used by drivers on the Autobahn to comment on the driving skills of other travel-ers. This gesture can get you arrested! This same gesture in Argentina would have no consequences.

The point to be made is that gestures are dangerous ways to communicate what you want to say. A Lot of Work? Yes is the answer! This seems to be a lot to remember, and to learn. However, the benefits of being culturally aware can make the difference in how your ministry is re-ceived in that country. It also leaves a lasting impression of our church and mission program.

55

56

Personal Preparation

Purpose: To better understand God’s call for Liberty to send and to go. Memory verse: Matthew 28:19-20 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." 1. Read Genesis 12:1-3, Matthew 28:19-02, and Revelation 15::3-4. What is Gods desire concerning the nations? Explain. 2. What can we learn from 2 Timothy 4:11-13 concerning missions? 3. What can we learn from Luke 24:46-48 concerning missions? Journal Assignment— What would God have you learn from this Personal preparation?

57

Travel Arrangements (MBP 47)

All travel arrangements are done by the missions office. We will make reserva-tions based on what is best for the whole team. Usually that revolves around pricing. The team will travel to-gether. Please understand that we do not allow people to travel separately from the team on a mission trip.

Sixth Team Meeting MBP (56)

Agenda ! Opening prayer ! Scripture reading: John 13:12-20, “We go as servants…” ! Our mission as servants

! Review A Servant’s Heart P59 (MBP 57) ! Being servants to each other as a team

! Sharing the culture: ! Team members share an item on the host country they have read in the material

in their folder or have heard on the news. ! How to share your testimony in this culture:

! If possible plan to have several translators at the next team meeting and have each team member share with one other team member through a translator. This will be a great time to practice their testimony and witness and also to see where they need improvement. If there are no translators then still plan for the team to share with each other.

! Advise the team to plan on spending most, if not all, of the time on the above at the next meeting

! Review: ! Packing list ! Team assignments (appendix 1)

! Financial Matters: ! Praise reports ! Balance of Trip Cost due ! Give out copies of money received

! Review: ! On-site work tasks ! Supplies, how is the team going to transport? ! Do we have everything we need?

! Journal assignment P 61 (MBP 59) ! Questions ! Adjourn with prayer

Team M

eeting 6

58

A Servant’s Heart

Purpose: To look closely at God’s definition of a servant so I can better serve God and others. Memory/theme verse: Christ as the example: John 13:2-20 - Humbles Himself, washes feet Phillippians 2:5-8 - Humble, obedient Christ, Others, Me: II Corinthians 4:5 - Not us but Christ, then your servant, we come last Motivation to Serve: John 15:16 - I have chosen you, to go forth and produce Fruit Isaiah 41:9-10 - I have chosen you and will protect you Colossians 3:23 - Do all for God with all your heart Traits of a Servant: Matthew 10:16 - I sent you … be wise, harmless Ephesians 4 - A worthy walk Matthew 25:21 - Good and faithful

59

A Model Servant (taken from the Scofield notes) Genesis 24

1. Does not run un-sent (vs. 2-9) 2. Goes where he is sent (vs. 4, 10) 3. Does nothing else 4. Is prayerful and thankful (vs. 12-14, 26, 27) 5. Is wise to win (vs. 17, 18, 21) 6. Speaks not of himself, but of his master (vs. 22, 34-35, Acts 1:18) 7. Presents the true issue and requires a clear decision (v. 49) (also see v. 66 gives

report) Ministry Goals

Optional Activity: List specific service goals for this trip (1) as a group; (2) as an individual. GROUP INDIVIDUAL ______________________________ _________________________________ ______________________________ _________________________________ ______________________________ _________________________________ Personal Response 1. How I can better exhibit a servant’s attitude?

At home: _______________________________________________________ At church: ______________________________________________________ With friends: ____________________________________________________

2. Do others see Christ in Me? Yes No If yes, why? If no, why not?

60

3. List several ways that you can be of service on this trip to: Team members: ____________________________________________________ Host/Missionaries: __________________________________________________ Nationals: _________________________________________________________ 4. What is my purpose for going on this ministry trip? 5. What personal attitudes do I need to adjust in order to have a servant’s heart while on

this trip? Journal Assignment— Record what has God is taught you during this personal preparation.

61

Seventh Team Meeting (MBP 60)

Agenda ! Opening Prayer ! Scripture Reading: Ephesians 1:17-19, “Growing As Disciples” ! Team Travel Protocol P 63 (MBP 61) ! Discuss

! on-site task assignments worksheet (appendix 1) ! team members share their testimony with another team member ! designate an “at-home” representative ! time of prayer

! Prayer Letter ! second prayer letter due out this week

! Team Commissioning ! commissioning date __________________ (You will need to talk with the Associate

Pastor of Missions regarding commissioning date. This is usually one to two weeks before the team leaves.)

! Journal Assignment—What do you see as the purpose for you to go on this ! mission trip? Why? ! Questions ! Date and time of next meeting ! Adjourn with prayer (team leader)

Team M

eeting 7

62

Team Travel Protocol

! The team leader is the authority for Liberty trips. Members must abide by his or her direction. They, with the missionary, will decide what, when, and how it will be done.

! All team members will travel together.

! All team members will “look out” for each other in regards to luggage, passport

checks, and security.

! When in the airports or airplanes, “look out” for each other’s carry-ons and personal items.

! Be aware of where the other team members are at all times. When you must leave

the group, leave with another team member, NOT BY YOURSELF.

! NEVER, NEVER leave your Passport or tickets with anyone, keep these with you at ALL times.

! Several times en route, you will have to show your passport with your airline tickets,

so have them together.

! LBC members will abide by the three-person rule regarding time with different gen-ders. (No unmarried couples will fraternize without a 3rd person present.)

! Teams are teams and should not become cliques. Members must work together to

assure unity and that God’s work can be done by the team.

! Flexibility is the key to mission trips.

We will have a fun and enjoyable trip if we keep all these things in mind.

63

64

Eighth Team Meeting (MBP 64)

Agenda– Usually this is also a packing day. ! Opening Prayer ! Scripture reading: Galatians 6:2, “Carry Each Other’s Burdens.” ! This may be the teams’ final meeting before you depart so it is very important

that everyone is clear on the following items: ! Meet at the church (30 minutes before departure to the airport) ! Emergency phone numbers ! Review the airline schedule ! When will the team get their tickets? ! Review “Mission Team Travel Protocol” ! Financial matters: Should you bring cash, traveler’s checks, or credit cards?

- How much spending money will you need? ! What if…???

! Questions ! Restate the purpose of the mission ! Adjourn with prayer *NOTE: Each person will have a copy of their airline ticket(s), passport, visa (if ap-plicable), etc. You may want to give your spouse, mother, father, etc. a copy of the flight itinerary so they will know when to pick you up at the church. The Team Leader will also have a copy of everyone’s information. A copy of the above is also kept in the Missions Office.*

Team M

eeting 8

65

66

On-Site Tasks Action Assigned To

Appendix 1

Trip Account Form Transportation/Food_______________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ Lodging Fees_______________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ Emergency Funds/Misc_______________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ ______________________________

Appendix 2

Appendix 3

* Notes *

Documents

Older Trip Training Manual for Churches