Listen: How to Make the Most of Your Short-Term Mission Trip

Short-term mission trips are a familiar part of church life for many, yet their significance extends far beyond programming or tradition. Rooted in the Great Commission, short-term missions reflect a biblical call to go—whether across the street or across the globe—in obedience to Christ. While these trips often focus on serving, evangelizing, or building relationships, the heart posture of the one who goes matters deeply.

The Short-Term Trip Field Guide invites participants to approach missions with a mindset shaped not only by service, but by intentional listening. This guide emphasizes the importance of tuning in—to the Holy Spirit’s leading, to the wisdom of church leaders and teammates, to the insights of local ministry partners, and to the voices and culture of the communities being served.

Through practical guidance and reflective prompts, this resource equips individuals and teams to engage short-term missions more thoughtfully and humbly. By adopting a posture of listening, participants can avoid common pitfalls, build healthier cross-cultural relationships, and align more fully with God’s purposes for their journey. Whether you're a first-time goer or a seasoned participant, this guide will help you make the most of your mission trip—not just in what you do, but in how you go.