Fundraising For Mission Trips

Fundraising for mission trips can seem like an overwhelming task, as those focused on serving the Lord in other communities and countries are challenged to ask for money. But, sharing in support and sharing in the work around the world is part of God's over-all plan. Whether it is a student or adult going on a short-term trip or a career missionary is looking for support, blessings are shared when others are invited to take part through prayer and giving. There are many different ways to approach fundraisers for mission trips and the following is a discussion about the attitude of asking for donations and about some ideas that may be implemented to insure that programs meet with the most success possible. An important factor to remember is that, ultimately, God is in control of all things, as His Word promises, but that we are expected to accomplish the task of preparing for the field, which includes developing a financial campaign. Prayer is another important part of seeking God's will in the matter of serving overseas or in other communities, as well. Prayer is the vehicle that opens the doors to who God intends to use in support and where to find the finances needed.

There are Christian ministries active around the entire world. There are even mission opportunities within communities with inner-city ministries and outreaches to those in the clutches of poverty. And, every mission of every size needs the service of volunteers who are brothers and sisters in Christ and the finances to support the work being accomplished. Being a missionary on a local or foreign level means taking part in fundraisers for mission trips. And, though this may seem like the least important part of serving the Lord in a specific service, it can be, when armed with the right attitude and the truth, as vital of a ministry as the actual work itself. Through the act of fundraising for mission trips, those seeking donations will find that the knowledge of His work becomes better known. Not every Christian in every church is fully aware of what God is accomplishing in other cities and countries around the globe, and where there is a financial campaign in full swing, the good news of His love and care for others is spread. Not only is His important work being shared to increase giving with fundraising for mission trips, but it is also bringing hope and faith to those who may not be able to actively take part by going or physically serving. The Lord uses the entire body of Christ to accomplish His work, and unless there is awareness, there is no way for some to even know of His miraculous ways.

And so, we learn that the act of raising money is a means for sharing His gospel. It is also a means for sharing in blessings. Those who give financially to fundraisers for mission trips are receiving the blessings of joy for giving to the work of the Lord. God has gifted some to be givers, and those who are called to this task truly delight in sharing their finances. If a missionary does not ask, then he may deny a donor the privilege of partaking, or of being a part of the mission. There can also be opportunities for others to share in the work load of fundraisers for mission trips, without ever going on any of the trips. Large financial campaigns can involve many people who share of their time and talents in generating support. Large events are examples of team fundraising. Serving a dinner with foods from the country or community that is to be served is one way of developing interest for and awareness about the ministry being supported and involving others in the gift of service. Having a speaker explain the work and the condition of the people being served at this dinner will also give donors ample information to make prayerful decisions.

Other ideas that create an awareness of other cultures and how they serve the Lord is to purchase items of that culture while in the country being served, then sell the items during special cultural events back in the states. These types of fundraisers for mission trips have a two-fold blessing. First, the artists who made the products in the foreign country receive payment for their work and the people in the US purchasing these products become more vividly aware of the other culture. Having items in a home that came from a sister church from around the world can serve to remind brothers and sisters in Christ to actively pray for one another. This is, of course, most effective for long-term trips that plan to live or frequently revisit the mission.

It is important to remember that raising money for any worthy ministry usually takes time. Though God does at times bless missionaries with large financial contributions that come with little fundraising for mission trips effort, He generally allows those seeking funding to experience the honor of exercising faith muscles. Praying through the process of gathering finances together is part of the plan, and when the money does not come easily, it only gives us more opportunity for prayer with our loving Father. There are many more tips and suggestions for raising funds and it may be a good idea to speak with veteran missionaries who have walked the road of experience to get their ideas and expertise.

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