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Erich Bridges is a global correspondent for IMB, SBC (and a friend). He writes a blog on global events, issues and trends called WorldView Conversation.Recently, Erich wrote an excellent post on church mission trips, They came. They saw. They left. (The picture above came from Erich's post.) In the post, he quotes Johnny Hunt, President of the Southern Baptist Convention:
I see a lot of churches led by enthusiastic young pastors who ride off to the mission field with no vision, no strategic relationship, no plan. They 'fire a shot' here and there and come home with some great stories, but it often ends there. Don't try to be Indiana Jones, the solo hero who barely makes it back alive. Be a team player, a coach and a mobilizer.... Work with a knowledgeable mission partner who knows his field. You'll make a much more lasting impact.
Most missionaries I know -- and I know a lot of them -- would give their eyeteeth to work with churches and volunteer groups that followed Hunt's advice.
- In your experience, what makes an effective volunteer missions team or partnering/engaging church?
Bob A