Signing up for a mission trip is not something people stand in line to do. Oh, how I wish this illustration were true!

Unfortunately, it is not.

Maybe once they have the experience and know how their life can be changed, they will be the first to volunteer.

But, now, the initial problem is how to gather a team to get started.

First, pray about it.

Second, gather some others who may be interested and share with them your vision of what the mission trip can do:

1. For the children in Romania (for example)

2. For the health of the church – a focus on the Great Commission.

3. For the individual – doing something specific to share the Good News.

Involve them in the planning. Follow the steps in the book, “Organizing and Operating a Vacation Bible School Overseas” and the supplement, “Have You Started Yet.” Some of this planning group will “catch the fire” and want to be part of the experience they have planned for

The planning phase is finished. You have the nucleus of a team that can answer any (well, almost any) question a potential team member may ask. Even so, you need to “open it up” to all who may be interested.

Now you are ready to start the “recruiting” phase.

Here are some ideas about individuals, people and groups you should make aware of this super mission opportunity, an opportunity to spread the word of God and love of Jesus Christ to the children (and some volunteers) overseas.

• The church congregation

• Friends

• Relatives

• Community, through announcements in local newspaper, pictures, feature articles

• Inform other churches of this opportunity – they are welcome to enjoy this rewarding experience.

• Inform social groups, business contacts about this mission possibility.

I bet you can think of at least one person right now that would be a valuable member of your VBS team. Act NOW! Give them a personal call. Write a personal note of invitation. Make it a personal appeal because they have a skill you need and they are important.

Encourage people to participate in at least one of the following ways:

1. By actually joining the team

2. By taking a supportive “prayer warrior” role

3. By helping financially; donating to a “scholarship” fund so that ALL people will be able to go who have the desire and commitment.

4. By providing supplies and equipment needed for the mission.

In my experience with teams since 2004, at least 50% of the people are so inspired by the VBS experience, that they volunteer to join the team again the next year.

Go take that FIRST STEP.

PRAY about it. Then ACT on your VISION.

 

 

Next week: How Important Are You? Really?