One of the most transformational things you can do as a high school or college student is to go on a student mission trip. It is a tangible way to grow and share your faith, meet fellow believers, and push yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. God calls us to minister to people right where we are, but He also calls some of us to go to other cities, states, or even countries. If you feel that call from God on your heart, let God do His work in you and show you what He has planned for you.
Mission Discovery has plenty of amazing locations for you and your group to go on a mission trip. Listed below are some of the top places for student mission trips.
Bluefield, West Virginia
There are many places right here in the United States that need to hear the Gospel and experience the love of Jesus. One of those places is Bluefield, West Virginia – located in the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains.
According to World Population Review, West Virginia is the fifth most impoverished state in America. Many of us do not have to worry about where our next meal will come from, where we will lay our head at night, or if we will be able to pay rent this month. However, there are those suffering from poverty right here in our country that we have the ability to help – not only physically, but spiritually as well. The Bible frequently talks about serving the poor and being generous with our time and resources for those who have less than we do.
“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” – James 2:14-17
You can learn more about taking a mission trip to Bluefield, West Virginia at the link below.
Nashville, TN
You probably think of country music and celebrities when you think of Nashville. However, there are hundreds of people struggling with poverty in Nashville. Mission Discovery partners with many ministries, including The Bridge Ministry in Nashville, to care for others and share the Gospel with them.
The Bridge Ministry was founded in 2004 by Candy Christmas, who wanted to help those who were less fortunate and took big pots of Jambalaya to those seeking shelter under the Jefferson Street Bridge in Nashville. Her vision developed into collecting items for those in need and grew from there. Today, it is a large non-profit organization that operates as a food bank, holds services on Tuesday evenings, and helps to feed children in a school program on the weekends – when those children might otherwise not get meals.
You can personally take part in feeding, clothing, and loving on those struggling with homelessness in Nashville and bring hope and light through the power of the Gospel.
You can learn more about taking a mission trip to Nashville, Tennessee at the link below.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a stunning place, but it has also been the subject of much destruction due to natural disasters. Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria caused the most destruction. Many people lost their lives. The hurricanes also caused power outages, flooding, and a shortage/lack of resources.
People who have gone through a trauma such as one of these – or live in a place where there might be fear of another one happening someday- need the comfort, peace, and security that Jesus provides. Fear, poverty, destruction, and death are all the inevitable results of our fallen world, but there are also tangible ways we can help.
If you decide to go to Puerto Rico, you will get to do ministry and serve others with local believers through the churches and organizations in the area. You will tangibly show the love of Christ to people who have experienced great loss and suffering.
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” – 2 Corinthians 1:3
Tecate, Mexico
Tecate is a valley located in Baja California, Mexico, surrounded by beautiful mountains and near the ocean. Tecate is a lively, flourishing city of opportunity, but sadly you will find impoverished communities along the U.S. – Mexico border. Many seek the lifestyle of living in Tecate but cannot afford it.
On a mission trip to Tecate, you and your Mission Discovery team will build homes. You may also put on a Children’s Bible School for the kids, and if you’ve ever experienced one of these growing up, then you know just how fun they can be. This trip may be perfect for you if you love to share the Gospel with child-like faith and you’re not afraid to be put to work!
Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua, Guatemala is a beautiful city known for its history, architecture, religious celebrations, cuisine, and more. Many tourists come from all over the world to Antigua to explore all that it has to offer – and tourism is the main source of income for a lot of residents (along with coffee production).
However, as you have already read above, there are people living outside the city limits who are suffering and in poverty. Those struggling to make ends meet have to choose between providing food or an education for their children.
You will have the opportunity to work with local ministries in Antigua to serve and love these people. You may be doing practical things such as providing food, shelter, and water or assisting with a Children’s Bible School to teach kids about the love of Jesus and have fun with them. Regardless, your contribution of time, energy, and resources are invaluable in bringing the Gospel to Antigua.
As well as with most of the other places, you will have time to see the beautiful sights and explore the city at the end of your trip.
In conclusion, mission trips are a great way to expand your worldview and gain a better understanding of cultures different from our own. Whether you have done one before or this is your first time, these trips can be incredibly rewarding experiences. With the right preparation and an open heart and mind, participating in a mission trip can prove to be an incredible journey with life-changing results.
