Bon Bagay! A Missionary Interview

“Haiti is known as a missionary graveyard.  The burnout rate here is high.”  I was talking with a long-term missionary about what he found most discouraging working in Haiti over the years.  He continued, “When the going gets rough, people often bail.  It’s discouraging to see fellow workers beat down and ‘run out of town.’  …

Being Overwhelmed With Circumstances

Normal is what we’re used to.  When things are going worse than normal, we complain.  At least, I complain.  But when faced with those less fortunate, it readjusts our thinking of what normal really is and makes us give pause before complaining. I took the following two pictures on the same day, March 18th.  One …

The Value of Going on a Short Term Missions Trip vs. Just Sending Money

Before I went to Haiti I was concerned the money I was spending on the trip might be better spent donating directly to someone.  The expense of short term “missions” trips is a frequent complaint regarding them – and there is no denying cash is needed many places…  I was only in Haiti one week …

Tent City Story–Why So Much Disparity in Wealth?

I’m learning a short "missions" trip can really spin you around.  One day you’re marching along in everyday life and then – wham, you’re transported to another world.  A world where people don’t have the same privileges I do.  Where water and electricity are sporadic.  Where food and clean water are not a given.  Where …

Are Short Term Mission Trips a Waste of Time?

The answer?  “Depends on the mindset of those going,” according to Noel Becchetti.  He provides an interesting break down of unhelpful attitudes Westerners often bring as they go to minister in other cultures.  Despite the title of his article, keep in mind he actually does promote short term missions.  If you’re considering taking a missions …