usa mission trips

Mission Trips

2024 and 2025 mission trips.

Mission Discovery makes it easy to serve others all around the world. Whether you’re looking for a mission trip with your church, school, a family, or alone as an individual, there are many ways to live out your faith on the mission field. If you want more information about serving, see the trips we offer below.

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Mission Trips with Purpose

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Amazing Trip Destinations

Ft. Myers, Florida

Florida is the only state that has a coastline with both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Jacksonville is the most populated city....

Mexico and the Pacific Ocean border the Republic of Guatemala. It is Central America's most populated country....

Navajo Reservation NM

New Mexico is the fifth-largest of the fifty states, although it ranks 36th in population with little over 2.1 million people....

Puerto Rico

A Caribbean island and unincorporated territory of the United States, Puerto Rico is located around 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) southeast...

South Texas / U.S. Border Town

Embark on a meaningful journey with Adventures in Missions to South Texas! Our mission trips offer a unique blend of service, leadership dev...

The Albanians refer to their nation as Shqipri or Shqipria. Since the fourteenth century, the terms "Shqipri" and "Shqiptar" have been recor...

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Long-lasting misconceptions and myths about the remoteness, temperament, and conduct of its residents have their roots in Appalachia....

Asheville, North Carolina

The 11th-most populated city in North Carolina and the largest in Western North Carolina is Asheville....

Baja California, Mexico

Baja California, Mexico is a gorgeous and very safe part of Mexico but the needs are many. agricultural areas surrounding Ensenada are chara...

Chicago, Illinois

With a population of over 2 million, Chicago is the third-most populous city in the United States and the most populous city in Illinois....

The Republic of Colombia is a South American nation that also includes an island territory in North America. It has the Caribbean Sea as a n...

Colombia is one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. It is also home to unreached tribes and immigration communities. We...

The Republic of Costa Rica is a nation in North America's Central America area, bordered to the north by Nicaragua....

Costa Rica is an adventurer's paradise, known for its stunning beaches and beautiful rainforests. We will serve various groups of women incl...

Cuba, the large Caribbean island of mystery, romance, revolution, and adventure lies only 90 miles from Florida. Cuba is warm, friendly, and...

Dominican Republic

The Republic of Dominicana is a nation in the Caribbean area that shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti in the Greater Antilles archipe...

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Eswatini, africa.

Southern African nation of Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a landlocked nation. It has the highest rate of HIV/AIDs in the world....

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Fairbanks, alaska.

Alaska is the biggest state in the United States by area, covering more land than the next three largest states combined (Texas, California,...

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Fort apache, arizona.

Your team will walk and minister side-by-side with the White Mountain Apache people of the church, listening to them, praying with them, enc...

Known as "The Land of Eternal Spring", Guatemala is rich in natural beauty. We will serve local women who live in the barrios near Antigua. ...

Hilton Head, South Carolina

A resort community and barrier island in Beaufort County, South Carolina, Hilton Head Island is sometimes referred to as just Hilton Head....

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Kansas city.

Kansas City is located on the western edge of Missouri, bordering Kansas. The metropolitan area has a population of over 2,000,000 people, a...

Manchester, New Hampshire

Manchester is a city in the state of New Hampshire, in the United States. It is New Hampshire's most populated city....

Rural Mississippi

Mississippi was the country's leading cotton producer, with slaves accounting for 55% of the population. It has the lowest per capita income...

Mayfield, Kentucky

A catastrophic long-track tornado devastated regions of Kentucky, including Mayfield, on the evening of December 10, 2021, causing major dam...

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Navajo nation.

Chinle Creek flows out of the mountains and into this rural Navajo community. It is nestled into the Four Corners area of the U.S. and is a ...

New Mexico is home to multiple Navajo reservations. We will serve the women of a local reservation that sits at an elevation of 7,200 feet....

New Orleans, Louisiana

The most populous city in Louisiana is New Orleans, which also serves as a significant port and a major economic and commercial center....

New York, New York

New York City is the most populous and densely inhabited large city in the United States, with a population more than twice that of Los Ange...

Northeast Georgia

Gainesville is one hour north of Atlanta, home to the busiest airport in the world. We will serve local immigrant women who are searching fo...

Romania is the European Union's twelfth-largest nation and sixth-most populated member, and it is home to the Danube, Europe's second-longes...

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Rural oklahoma.

Oklahoma is home to 52 tribes Native American tribes. In this location, your group will have the opportunity to come alongside our partners ...

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Asia is among the world's most significant geographical areas, as either a continent or a subcontinent of Eurasia that shares the Afro-Euras...

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Spirit lake, north dakota.

Join us on mission to Spirit Lake, North Dakota. Here, we look to build relationships and make disciples on the Reservation. Work with our l...

Wind River Reservation

The Wind River Reservation is located in central Wyoming, one of America’s most beautiful American Indian enclaves. Come join us in making...

Wisconsin Native American

Join us for our Native American Missions Trips to Crandon, Wisconsin! Come grow spiritually as we build relationships with Native Americans....

Zuni Pueblo Reservation

Zuni Pueblo is a place of order, regularity, and tradition nestled into the border between New Mexico and Arizona. The residents are agricul...

Your perfect Mission Starts Here

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Top 3 Most Common Mission Trip Questions

Sign up your group with us today and receive a free mission trip, with savings of up to $800 but that’s not all – each participant will also receive a high-quality water bottle for their mission trip., calling all youth pastors.

Looking to offer your youth group an unforgettable mission trip experience? Look no further! Adventures in Missions is excited to present you with an exclusive offer. Sign up your group with us today and receive a FREE mission trip, with savings of up to $800! But that’s not all – each participant will also receive a high-quality water bottle for their mission trip. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Act fast to secure this great offer for your youth group. Contact us now to learn more and reserve your spot. Experience the joy of serving others and making a lasting impact. Join Adventures in Missions and embark on a transformative mission trip with your youth group. Limited availability for Summer 2024 trips only – don’t delay, secure your spot today!

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Why Go on Mission?

Amazing opportunities from the world race.

11 Months | 6 Countries | Ages 21-30

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2-4 week trips

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mission trips

Central America

Baja California, Mexico

Detroit, MI

El Salvador

Middle East

Minneapolis - Saint Paul

New England

Pacific Northwest

South America

Peru - Amazon

Prince Edward Island

Puerto Rico

South Africa

The Bahamas

The Carolinas

The Dominican Republic

Washington, D.C.

Get all the information you need about our mission trips and what your group can expect as they serve on mission with Praying Pelican.

Deepen your youth mission trip by doing ministry built on genuine partnerships, long term relationships, and sustainable ministry.

College students are looking for a place to make a meaningful impact. Amplify that impact by partnering alongside a local church.

Our customizable mission trips allow each person on your team of adults to find a place to serve, regardless of their interests or skills.

Church Sponsorship

A continuous effort to build up, encourage, and assist the local Church 365 days a year.

International

Want to transform a community by supporting a church leader?

Not sure what location to choose?

Latest PPM365 Updates

Francis Githinji

Kenya | March 7, 2024

Kenya | February 15, 2024

Kenya | February 8, 2024

Kenya | January 23, 2024

Luis Carlos Armas Vascones

Peru - Amazon | October 28, 2023

Disaster Response

Current Responses

Hawaii: Maui Wildfires

Indian Lake Tornado (3/14/24 Midwest)

Disaster Response (Indian Lake Tornado)

Flooding and Winds

Houston, TX

Greenfield Tornado

When disasters strike, the Church is on the front lines of response and relief efforts, working with local authorities and organizing grassroots efforts to meet the pressing needs of their communities.

Follow along with teams as they serve in disaster areas around the world, and also read about the experiences of past teams who have served in those areas through Praying Pelican Missions. Our disaster trip journals are a great way to stay connected with those support teams as they work locally and internationally to offer encouragement and assist the local Church in what might be their greatest time of need!

trip journals

Mission Trip Journals

Follow along with teams as they go on mission, and read about the experiences of past teams who have served with Praying Pelican.

Recent Trip Journals

Tom's Creek Baptist Church

Carolinas | May 26, 2024

Mt. Pisgah Church

Pacific Northwest | May 26, 2024

Wrights Chapel UMC

Alaska | May 26, 2024

Fulton Church of God (Holiness)

Belize | May 26, 2024

New Life Bible Fellowship Church - Metzger Family

Costa Rica | May 26, 2024

USA Ambassador Pageant Volunteers

Puerto Rico | May 26, 2024

Praying Pelican Missions

Connecting the local church on a global level.

Find Out More

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL CHURCH

Mission trips | church sponsorship | disaster response.

PPM exists to build up, encourage, and assist the local Church in serving and reaching their communities for Christ.

As an interdenominational ministry, we seek to recognize the diversity of the church while leveraging what binds us together as followers of Jesus Christ. There is no more powerful example of God's love to a community than when His people come together to serve and advance the Gospel, all in the name of Jesus.

Praying Pelican Missions’ vision is to see a united global Church reaching its fullest potential for the glory of God.  We believe the best way to accomplish our mission and vision is to support the local Church 365 days a year. We do this in three ways: short-term mission trips, church sponsorship, and disaster response.

Teams Serving Today!

Today there are 194 people serving on mission trips with PPM!

MISSION TRIPS

We believe that healthy short-term mission trips are possible by building upon genuine partnerships, long-term relationships, and sustainable ministry. When your team partners with us for a mission trip, your group will work directly alongside local churches and ministries where you can help to meet real needs, identified by local leadership.

CHURCH SPONSORSHIP

PPM365 is a continuous effort to build up, encourage, and assist the local Church 365 days a year. By sponsoring a church's involvement in this program, pastors and ministry leaders will receive local support, training, and encouragement, leading to transformed communities in the name of Christ.

DISASTER RESPONSE

When disasters strike, the Church is on the front lines of response and relief efforts, working with local authorities and organizing grassroots efforts to meet the needs of their communities. PPM comes alongside these efforts, providing the necessary resources, support, and help to advance the work of our local partners.

Praying Pelican Missions serves as a bridge between cultures, connecting local churches from around the world. For over 20 years, PPM teams have been encouraging and assisting local ministries in what they are doing in their communities.

To learn more about how your church or team can partner alongside the local church in ministry, please fill out the contact form to the right and one of our Mission Consultants will connect with you!

Mission Trip Search

Use the dropdowns to search a specific trip location, trip timeframe, and group size

To view and filter all available trip dates

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INTERNATIONAL & DOMESTIC

Our partner-based trips differ a bit by location, but are all based on the same principles we believe are crucial to healthy mission trips.

GROUP LEADER TESTIMONIALS

What are group leaders saying about their mission trip experience with Praying Pelican Missions?

I love PPM! I just got back from my second trip with them, and I cannot express how grateful I am for PPM and their awesome team! Mission trips are always stressful, but PPM is very organized and supportive. As a pastor, I love working with PPM because they make an effort to connect and support your students!

Cassandra Riker

Jamestown Presbyterian Church

Short-term missions can be tricky to do well, but PPM does it RIGHT. Our leaders were from the home country, on the ground, assessed the ministry site well, and ensured the partnership would benefit all involved. Our trip was a beautiful example of the Body of Christ working well together and serving one another because of the prep and care PPM took. I would HIGHLY recommend going with them!! We will definitely be partnering with them in the future.

Kristi Hawkins

Glenkirk Church

We just had our 4th Missions Trip through Praying Pelican Missions to the Dominican Republic and each one has been amazing. This last one was the best one yet! Big thanks to the PPM staff for helping us with all the logistics and process of getting everyone on the team registered and ready for the trip. While on the grounds in the DR the PPM staff was amazing and served right along with us. I look forward to our continued partnership and future Missions Trips!

Calebe Maciel

Trinity Community Church

READY? LET'S GO!

Have questions or want to learn more?

[email protected]

Phone number, 888.ppm.4090, 8011 34th ave s, suite 400, minneapolis, mn 55425, have questions.

INTERNATIONAL

LATEST TRIP JOURNALS

USEFUL LINKS

Our customizable mission trips allow each person on your team of adults to find a place to serve, regardless of their interest or skills.

Africa's many countries boast a wide array of beauty, culture and needs. Destinations include Kenya and South Africa.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Caribbean—locations include Haiti, Jamaica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and Puerto Rico.

Serve with Praying Pelican across the Central America—locations include Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica.

This is your opportunity to serve alongside a local church and experience God in a different culture—from Belize, to Cuba, to South Africa and beyond.

From our hometown of Minneapolis to the island of Puerto Rico, USA mission trips are diverse in service opportunities, cultural experiences, and community needs.

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Christ-centered Mission Trips

Empowering every teenager to know God and be like Jesus in the ways they love and serve others

Trip Finder

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Starting at $429

Weeklong fully set up summer mission trips in over 15 communities.

• Facilitated theme materials and evening activities
• Trained Summer Staff on-site
• Meals and snacks included

New! YW x Trips

Custom Pricing

Year-round custom service experiences that allow space for your discipleship strategy.

• Flexible start and end dates
• Any type of group (college, adult, youth, school, etc)
• Multiple price points

We fuel movements of God through Christ-Centered mission trips that

Disciple students.

We handle all the behind-the-scenes set-up, logistics, and on-site support so that you can lead the discipleship of your students.

Develop Leaders

We've built a mission trip structure that can spot, empower, and launch student leaders.

Serve Communities

We utilize a mission trip model based on servant-leadership that prioritizes what God is already doing through the local Church and community development organizations.

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Mission Trips

Looking for short-term mission trips with everything organized for you? Every year, International Volunteer HQ supports more than 15,000 people to volunteer abroad on mission trips in 40+ countries around the world. Since 2007, IVHQ has helped more than 137,000 volunteers complete mission trips to Africa , Asia , Europe , South America , Central America , North America , the Caribbean , Middle East , and the Pacific .

IVHQ offers safe, social and fully-supported mission trips for teens , college students , families and individuals at any stage of life, as well as for those seeking summer mission trips and medical mission trips . With long-term and short-term mission trips starting at just $20/day including accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support, IVHQ is the world’s leading mission trip organization.

IVHQ offers both short-term and long-term mission trips with durations ranging from 1 to 24 weeks. Through IVHQ, you can choose from a diverse range of volunteer projects to support, inclduing: childcare volunteering , wildlife conservation , environmental conservation , medical volunteering , teaching abroad , and much more. These international volunteer opportunities enable you to support locally-driven projects that uplift under-resourced communities around the world.

If you’re looking to join a mission trip in 2024 or 2025, we’ve outlined IVHQ’s most popular types of mission trips and all the information you need to know to find your perfect mission.

What is a mission trip?

A mission trip is an international volunteering opportunity centered around collaborative efforts with local communities to provide essential support where it is most needed. These trips can be either religious or non-religious in nature, aiming to uplift individuals, local communities, and natural environments across the globe. IVHQ offers inclusive volunteer abroad programs that welcome participants of all ages and life stages.

Through IVHQ’s diverse range of mission trips , individuals can make a tangible impact while fostering new friendships, discovering diverse cultures, and broadening their horizons—all while contributing to the well-being of those who require assistance the most.

Why do people go on mission trips?

Mission trips are a popular way to combine your desire to travel and see with world with your motivation to give back and make a difference in the world. While some people see mission trips as an opportunity to put their faith into action, others go on mission trips for a variety of non-religious reasons, including:

To make a difference: Many people go on mission trips make a positive impact in the world through providing support to communities in a range of different ways. This could involve volunteering to teach English , building schools or homes , providing medical care , volunteering with animals or supporting environmental conservation .

To gain a new perspective: Traveling to a new country and immersing yourself in a different culture can be a life-changing and transformative experience. Mission trips allow you to see the world with fresh eyes and gain a better understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

To meet new people: Mission trips offer an opportunity to connect with people from all around the world. International volunteers work together towards a common goal, often forming life-long friendships and connections along the way.

To get out of your comfort zone : Mission trips are an opportunity to discover a new sense of purpose by stepping out of your comfort zone, discovering new countries and cultures, and living like the locals. This can be equally challenging and rewarding! Taking a mission trip is an opportunity to growth as person, discover your strengths and weaknesses and redefine your purpose in life.

While people go on mission trips for a variety of reasons, at the heart of it is a desire to make a positive impact on the world, connect with others and build a better future together.

I recently returned from a mission trip to Sri Lanka and it was everything I dreamt it would be. I lived with a family in the jungle next to the longest river in the country, volunteering in a disabled childcare center. I was so happy with the project and had a wonderful - and sometimes challenging - experience. I would recommend this mission trip to anyone who wants to travel alone.

How much does it cost to go on a mission trip?

The cost of going on a mission trip varies depending on the destination and duration of the trip. IVHQ makes mission trips accessible to volunteers worldwide through affordable volunteer program fees and flexible durations.

For example, the cost of a 2-week mission trip with IVHQ to Tanzania is US$415, while a 4-week trip to India is US$585. These costs cover accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, and in-country support from IVHQ’s local team.

Additional costs that volunteers need to consider include the IVHQ registration fee , airfares, travel insurance, and any necessary visas or vaccinations. However, IVHQ provides detailed information and support to help volunteers prepare for their mission trip and manage these additional costs.

It’s worth noting that IVHQ also offers a range of fundraising ideas and resources to help volunteers cover the costs of their trip. For example, volunteers can create a fundraising page via IVHQ’s fundraising partner and share it with friends and family to collect donations.

IVHQ’s fees are transparent and inclusive, making it easy for volunteers to plan and budget for their trip without breaking the bank.

Why do a mission trip with IVHQ?

If you’re looking to join a mission trip, you likely have a social or environmental cause in mind that you’d like to contribute to. Just as you place importance on the program you join, it’s equally as important to choose a responsible mission trip organization.

At IVHQ, we believe that mission trips should contribute positively towards society. Environmental and social impact has always been at the heart of what we do, which is why we’ve undergone rigorous assessment to become a Certified B Corporation , holding us to the highest ethical standards. We’re also the first and only global volunteer travel provider to declare a Climate Emergency and our operations are certified as 100% carbon neutral.

With a B Corp stamp of approval , Program Fees starting at just $20/day including accommodation, and more than 16 years of experience , IVHQ is proud to be the mission trip organization of choice for thousands of individuals and groups looking to take a meaningful mission trip in 2024 & 2025.

Best mission trip opportunities across the globe

IVHQ offers a range of meaningful volunteer programs in Tanzania, Zambia, Victoria Falls, Madagascar, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, Zanzibar and Namibia. Explore Africa’s beauty while conserving endangered wildlife or giving back to local communities in need.

Available in 11 countries

IVHQ offers volunteer programs in 15 incredible destinations across Asia, including Bali, Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Discover new cultures and play a hands-on role in supporting local social and environmental projects.

North America

Join a volunteer program in Mexico or the USA and choose from a range of meaningful projects, from Childcare and Teaching to Animal Care and Environmental Sustainability. IVHQ’s North American volunteer opportunities are based in New Orleans, or in Merida, Mexico.

Available in 2 countries

Central America

Based in the popular destinations of Costa Rica and Guatemala, IVHQ offers a range of impactful volunteer programs in Central America. Support community initiatives, work alongside locals and embrace unique cultural traditions for up to 24 weeks.

South America

IVHQ’s volunteer trips to South America are based in iconic Latin American locations across Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. With unique opportunities in Teaching, Construction, Wildlife Conservation, Medical, Amazon Jungle Conservation, and more, there’s something to suit every volunteer!

Available in 6 countries

IVHQ’s Caribbean volunteer opportunities are based in and around the stunning islands of Jamaica, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, and Puerto Rico. Give back to the local community through Teaching, Marine Conservation, Childcare, Animal Care and other impact led volunteer projects.

Available in 4 countries

Discover Europe’s rich culture and history on a volunteer program in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Romania or Croatia. Choose from a range of meaningful projects including Wolf Conservation, Youth Support, Teaching, Childcare, Special Needs Support, Environmental Scuba Diving and more.

Middle East

Explore the Middle East on a volunteer trip to Jordan. Choose from a range of community projects such as Youth Support, Women’s Education, Teaching and more. When you’re not giving back, you can explore the Middle East’s unique culture through our exhilarating tours and add-ons.

Available in 1 country

Experience the vibrant culture and welcoming communities of the Pacific on a volunteer trip with IVHQ. Choose from a range of life-enriching programs, from preserving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and coastal waterways in New Zealand to teaching on the beautiful island of Fiji.

Available in 3 countries

Find the best mission trip for you

• Teens & High School Students
• College Students
• Summer Trips

Mission trips for teens & high school students

Joining a mission trip is one of the best ways to step outside of your comfort zone, gain new perspective and give back to communities in need. IVHQ offers a range of mission trips for high school students and teens , meaning you don’t need to be 18 to go abroad and make a difference.

Since 2007, IVHQ has supported thousands of young people to volunteer around the world on our youth mission trips. More than 20% of our volunteers are under 20, so we know a thing or two about providing life-changing, reliable travel experiences for young explorers.

We offer safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for teens and high school students in 17 destinations around the globe. Learn more about how to join a mission trip for under 18s .

Top mission trips for teens & high school students:

Volunteer in costa rica.

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer in Tanzania

Mission trips for college students

Today’s student demographic is more progressive than ever before. That’s why student mission trips have become a popular alternative to studying abroad. Instead of studying abroad, many are opting for a more meaningful form of international travel - one that is regenerative and makes a positive impact on local communities.

IVHQ offers mission trips for college students in more than 40 countries around the world. Our mission trips to Africa are particularly popular amongst students. With fees starting at just US$20 per day, our low-cost mission trips are an affordable way for students and young professionals to discover a new country and gain a global perspective while making the world a better place.

When you go on a mission trip with IVHQ, you also have the opportunity to gain academic credit while you volunteer from as little as US$599 for 5 credits - making a super affordable alternative to studying abroad!

Top mission trips for college students:

Volunteer in peru.

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Volunteer in Zambia

Mission trips for families

Planning a family mission trip can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to accommodate multiple age groups. IVHQ’s fully-hosted mission trips mean that you can get away and make a difference without having to coordinate and plan for the entire family. The best part? Lots of IVHQ programs offer private room and accommodation upgrades at a very affordable price!

If you have young children, IVHQ has great options that will give you quality time together while instilling the values of service. Family mission trip opportunities are available in Africa , Asia , Europe , Central America and South America .

Our team of Volunteer Travel Experts can provide you with personalized family mission trip recommendations to match your budget and the causes you care about. Learn more about how you can go on a mission trip as a family .

Top mission trips for families:

Volunteer in kenya.

Volunteer in Portugal

Best short-term mission trips

IVHQ offers short-term mission trips for 1 to 3 weeks in over 40 countries, starting at just $20 per day including accommodation . This means you can get away and experience a new culture without needing to take ample time away from your day-to-day priorities.

Our short-term mission trips are designed for those who want to maximize impact in a short period of time and are perfect for students and professionals who are looking to take an alternative break . With everything organized for you, including airport pickup and 24/7 in-country support, you can hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination. Check out our top short-term mission trips for 2024 & 2025:

Top short-term mission trips:

Volunteer in croatia.

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer in Mexico

Best summer mission trips

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to go on a mission trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture and interact with locals while soaking up the sunshine. With time off from work and school, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the world and make a difference alongside like-minded people.

Whether you have a desire to volunteer abroad with animals or want to find a medical volunteer program , check out these top summer mission trips for 2024 & 2025 .

Top summer mission trips:

Volunteer in puerto rico.

Volunteer in South Africa

Volunteer in Zanzibar

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Group Mission Trips

Domestic and international mission trips.

We create short-term, domestic and international mission trips for youth and adults. Experience the transformation that happens on our short-term mission trips when you serve communities across the world and put your faith in action!

High-energy environments for serving people in need through home repair while Jesus radically transforms lives.

Starting at $298

Meaningful community service alongside strong local ministries and nonprofit organizations who ensure your impact continues long term.

Starting at $849

Cross-cultural service gives youth groups the opportunity to gain new perspective while serving people in need around the world.

Starting from $498

Starting from $298

New for 2024! Workcamp now has a more flexible option for you called Workcamps FLEX. It has all the outstanding elements of our Workcamp Classic but at a more affordable price, allowing you more flexibility in what you eat and where you sleep.

Short-Term Missions.

Long-term impact..

Group Mission Trips creates the perfect environment for youth and adults to build relationships and make a long-term impact while serving on short-term mission trips across the world.

“I have been taking High School aged youth on mission trips for approximately 20 years. Over the last 12 years I have used GMT. They are by far the best I have used. Their programing is Christ centered and thought provoking.”

Terry O'Hanlon

Workcamp Attendee

“Been on Group Mission Trips for about 15 years! It is a tremendous program and gets kids (and adults!) to participate actively in the expansion of God's Kingdom. The leadership, administration, and staff have been wonderful for each experience. My youth group (as well as myself) have been blessed continually throughout the years!”

“Summer 2019 was my first experience with GMT. I took a group of high schoolers to a South Dakota for home repair on a reservation, and a group of middle + high schoolers to Denver. Both trips were very organized and communication with staff was wonderful! We are excited to use Group again this year! ”

Emily Pearce

Workcamp Participant

“Group Mission Trips provides everything you need to have an amazing, life-changing service experience! Their professional, caring staff is there to guide you in every step of the process.... ”

Beth Taylor

“I've been on 6 mission trips with this organization and I have grown so much because of these experiences. I can not say enough good things about this company! Thank you Group Mission Trips! ”

Sydney Lewis

“One single review cannot describe the life-changing experience that can be had with GMT. Taking middle school and high school kids to an experience that is outside of 'normal' for most kids, helping revitalize communities, and meet people outside their current home and social media bubble is priceless... ”

Brian Anderson

“ I always found the trips well organized and managed, with staff that were dedicated to serving the community hosting the Workcamp, as well as the growth of the youth involved. Having seen the positive outcomes for all involved, I sought out opportunities to continue my involvement with Group Mission Trips after my son graduated from high school.”

Marvin Rasch

“I have worked with Group Mission Trips since the early 90s. Each and every summer it is such a blessing to serve others and help in various communities. There have been so many life changing events over the years. I would definitely recommend Group Mission Trips to others... ”

Phyllis Looker

“I attended workcamps as a youth and now all these years later my son gets to attend. I couldn't be happier with Group Mission Trips and the safe environment and Christ filled programming.

He and other teens with the help of two adults were able to build this amazing switchback wheelchair ramp in just 4.5 days!

What a blessing to the homeowner but more than that, the kids seemed to really connect to each other, and their resident.”

Ann Hardwood

Residents are helped, communities are strengthened, and lives are changed.

Accreditations & Memberships

Why Group Mission Trips?

Since Group Mission Trips’ beginning in 1990, more than 500,000 mission trip participants have racked up more than 15 million volunteer hours serving people in need. Thousands of lives and communities have been impacted and transformed through our domestic and international mission trips. Group Mission Trips creates the perfect environment for youth and adults to build relationships and make a long-term impact while serving on short-term mission trips across the world.

Organization

Our team organizes your service projects and the details of your mission trip experience so you don’t have to. Stress-free and hassle-free is the way it should be.

Safety is our number one priority, as we're sure it is yours. We require all staff and adult volunteers to have background checks, limit the adult to student ratios, and many more on our list of safety procedures that can be found in our FAQ sections.

You're not alone in the planning process. In fact, our all-star mission trip advisors will help you with all the details to plan your next mission trip and provide personalized communication and details specific to your mission trip.

Sustainable Partnerships

We believe the best way to serve on a mission trip is to partner with local ministries, organizations, and individuals already embedded in each community. We come alongside their ministries and provide support for their sustainable year-round programs.

When you go on a mission trip with Group Mission Trips, you’ll have a trained staff who will be your liaison and coordinators of all details while you're serving.

Customization

Have a specific need? We're always happy to customize mission trips for you and your group. We understand each group has specific needs, and our mission trips advisors are here to help accommodate you.

Safety is our number one priority, as we're sure it is yours. Our team stays up to date with all travel advisories and the latest international news to ensure all safety measures are taken.

When you go on a mission trip with Group Mission Trips, you’ll have a designated trip leader with your group who will be your liaison and coordinator of all details while you're serving.

Don't see a date that works for you? We're always happy to customize mission trips for you and your group. We've customized trips for individuals, families, school groups, sports teams, dance teams, companies, youth groups, and more.

Want to help?

There are many opportunities to get involved! We have summer positions for college-aged students with the potential to make up to $6k and hundreds of volunteer and leadership opportunities.

We're all influenced by the people around us through news, music, work, school, sports, and basically anywhere we direct our attention. This year's program is designed to help students navigate the many influences in their lives and encourage them to look toward Jesus, the greatest influencer of all time, so they use their influence to positively change their culture. Romans 12:2

With Your Help

More than 500,000 mission trip participants have racked up more than 15 million volunteer hours serving people in need. Thousands of lives and communities have been impacted and transformed.

RECEIVE OUR 2024 CATALOG!

What’s inside:

• Full list of 2024 locations
• New Workcamp Flex trips
• Who is Group Mission Trips and what makes us unique
• An exclusive reveal of the 2024 program theme
• A comparison of our 4 trip types
• Helpful information on payment policy, typical days, and more 

We may communicate with you about the information you've requested and other Group Mission Trip services. The use of your information is governed by Group Cares  Privacy Policy.

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FOCUS Missions

Why Mission?

Some things are worth being uncomfortable for; authentic encounters, real friendship, and serving something greater than yourself. FOCUS Missions partners with hosts all around the world and in the U.S. who are serving the needs of their communities — and  they want you to join! Find your mission here and see what the Lord can do with your yes!

Winter Applications Open: July 31, 2023 Winter Applications Close: October 15, 2023

Spring/Summer Applications Open: September 1, 2023 Spring Applications Close: December 15, 2023 Summer Applications Close: February 15, 2024

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View more + view less -, “i came on this mission to encounter christ.”.

Choose by Location

Where do you want to travel? We’ve got partners all over the world.

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What time of year works best for you? See which opportunities fit your schedule.

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Have a particular skill set? We have trips that could use your talents! We offer unique trip opportunities as well.

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You can change someone’s life with your donation! Give a student the chance to serve Christ in the poor, and come back with a deeper faith.

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PLEASE NOTE: IMMERSION Staff will be out of office Sept. 11-15. After submitting a form, use the link in your email to schedule a call for Sept. 18-22!

Service opportunities assigned to each community or program are not guaranteed to be part of every trip. Fill out an interest form to learn more.

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New York City Mission Trips

Community Overview

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On your New York City mission trip, you’ll experience the hustle and bustle of the city, but also have time to slow down and better understand the real issues from ministry partners who are in it for the long haul. Although it is the financial capital of the world—an estimated 40,000 people sleep in city shelters every night, with thousands more sleeping on the streets. Your team will have the chance to hear their stories and be a part of ministries like The Salvation Army who are making a difference through soup kitchens, day camp, Bible studies, and person-to-person prayer in the streets.

Urban mission trips in the U.S. can provide a challenging, cross-cultural experience for your team, and New York is a true melting pot of people from around the world. You’ll feel like locals as you immerse in a bustling urban environment, just a short subway ride from Times Square. Throughout the week, your team will walk the city blocks and ride public transportation to serve with ministries throughout Harlem, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. As you engage with local ministries, you’ll see real needs but you’ll also be a part of making people feel valued and heard.

Will you join a 2024 mission trip to New York and be a picture of hope to those on the fringes of society in America’s largest city?

Meet our Local Partners

Local partners.

Details & Logistics

Activities & opportunities, projects/outreach ministry.

This is a highly relational trip with many opportunities for engagement. Possible activities include working with underprivileged youth and people experiencing homelessness. You also may do lighter service projects such as minor repairs, cleaning & sorting, painting, and yard work.

Children's Ministry

Teams coming to this community will participate in Kids Club! In this community, connecting with the local children through children's ministry is an important part of what we do each day. Experience Mission will provide the curriculum for your teams use. This Kids Club curriculum will be sent out to Team Leaders in the spring via email. Your team may be asked to participate in multiple Kids Clubs and avenues of ministering to children.

Teams will be responsible to bring the craft supplies needed for their specific crafts and should budget appropriately. While we do our best to make sure the craft materials are cost-effective, teams may feel free to augment any materials to make them more suitable for their budget. Experience Mission will supply scissors, staplers, and paper hole punches. There are plenty of opportunities to connect with local children through games like soccer or Frisbee. Tuck in a hackysack, football or jump rope as they are sure to come in handy.

*Experience Mission works closely with local leaders to identify work projects and ministry opportunities that address authentic needs within the community. We ask that you come with a servant's heart and willingness to adapt to the unique qualities represented in each location. Opportunities can vary significantly from one week to the next. Your team may work at one location or serve at multiple locations each day. Due to the changing needs of our community partners, we cannot confirm your specific activities until your team arrives.

Typical Schedule

Each morning, there is time set aside for devotions and quiet time. Each morning, there is time set aside for devotions and quiet time. This is a valuable time and we strongly encourage everyone to spend it with God journaling their thoughts and experiences as the days unfold. EM will provide a physical or printable devotional journal.

Our staff will lead a time of debriefing and a short devotional in the evening (what we call "Evening Gathering") and it is always a great addition to have musical worship. Our programming does not include musical worship as we can't guarantee that our our staff will have this ability. Please let us know if you have anyone who sings or plays guitar on your trip so that we can help to coordinate the musical aspect of worship when able. If teams aren't able to help in the area of music, it may not be a part of the trip.

Each day, there will be a varying schedule of work and outreach.

Curious about EM's ability to accommodate specific food restrictions? View EM's Food Policy

Transportation

Your teams transportation to, from and while in New York City is not covered. Parking is limited in NYC so please plan to bring as few vehicles as possible. 12 passenger vans are ideal. No buses, including mini buses are allowed. We do not have locations to store buses or trailers. Your team will be using The Metro throughout your week in NYC and the cost will need to be covered by your team. Prices vary so you should check into the cost of a one-week Metro card & budget appropriately.

Health & Safety

Em's health & safety plan:.

Check out EM's current Covid Guidance

New York Trip FAQs

What age group can you accommodate in New York City? This trip is open for high school and older. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate junior high students. Check out our list of available trips for jr. high students .

How much do New York City mission trips cost? The cost for this trip is $450/person for 2023. This includes all lodging, food, staffing, and trip-related expenses.

What seasons do you offer New York City mission trips? Mission trips to New York are available during the summer. Check out this list of all available spring break trips if you are looking for trips outside the summer months.

What will volunteers do on a mission trip to New York City? Teams in NYC split their time between local ministries with a focus on building relationships. You can expect to work with children's outreach, food ministry, homeless ministries, and minor home repair projects. In addition to this, your team will spend time learning about the history and context for ministry in New York.

Will we work with children in New York City? Yes! Kids Club is an integral part of the ministry in NYC. Once registered, your support person will provide you with resources to prepare.

What paperwork is required for this mission trip? Each team member will need to fill out a team member registration form and liability waiver, and all adults are required to pass a background check . Additionally, some of our partners require extra waivers for volunteer opportunities. These will be available once you register.

Where will my team stay? Teams will stay in vacant classrooms at a local church. Plan on bringing air mattresses for added comfort. Showers and meals will be available at this location.

How does transportation work during New York City mission trips? For this location, we require teams to utilize public transportation. Each individual team member should purchase a week-long unlimited MetroCard for around $35. This is a fun chance to not only conveniently navigate the city, but also to get a glimpse into everyday life in New York.

When should I arrive? Check-in is between 3 and 5 PM on the first day of your selected trip. Our staff will be awaiting your arrival. You can expect dinner and an orientation meeting to get you ready for the week that evening as well.

What should I pack for this trip? A packing list will be available to you once you register for the trip.

Does EM have any Covid requirements for teams? We ask that teams bring 1-2 masks/person and 2-4 rapid tests in the event that someone on your team becomes sick during the trip. Outside of that, we simply recommend that teams follow current CDC recommendations regarding travel, testing, and what to do if you're exposed or get sick. View EM's Current Covid Guidance

Does EM offer any other urban mission trips? Yes! We also currently offer trips to New Haven, Connecticut , Atlanta , and Chicago .

Have more questions about Experience Mission trips? Check out our general FAQs , or call our support team at 888-475-6414 .

Registration & Payment

Experience Mission has specific policies regarding registration and withdrawal. Please refer to the document below for specifics.

View Registration & Payment Policy

INDIVIDUALS

All volunteers on a week-long EM mission trip must be part of a team of at least six (6) people, with at least one team member age 21 or older to serve as the Team Leader. Not part of a group? All young adults ages 18-30 are eligible to apply for EM’s IMMERSION program.

Upcoming Trip Dates: New York City

We’d love to connect with you.

Dont hit a snag in your mission trip planning! Fill out an interest form or call (888) 475-6414 (Mon-Thu, 9am-5pm ET) to ask questions and learn more about upcoming EM mission trips.

Fill Out An Interest Form Call (888) 475-6414

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Fill out a Group Interest Form

Only takes a minute! Simply choose the community and trip dates you’re most interested in—no commitment necessary.

We’ll personally follow up with you this week

Answering your questions and walking you through the process of finding the best trip, registering your group, and preparing to serve together.

You and your team serve on a cross-cultural mission trip!

Organized and led by EM field staff or local partners, your trip will bring encouragement and light to people in difficult circumstances, as you learn what it means to care for all people, whoever and wherever you are.

Fill Out an Interest Form

Read our Mission Trip FAQ and Registration Policy . If you have additional questions or don't see the dates you're looking for, fill out an interest form for the trip closest to what you're hoping for and let us know the needs of your group.

Don't let fundraising slow you down!

Download the free EM Fundraising Guide for all our best tips and ideas for making fundraising for your next trip fun and easy.

Get the Free Guide

Download our free Fundraising Guide for all our best tips and ideas for making fundraising for your next trip fun and easy.

You must have a group size of at least 6 members to join this trip. Please view the Small Team trips or call our Servicing Department for more options at 888-475-6414 .

View Small Team Trips

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UNW Women’s Basketball Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic: Update #4

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UNW Women's Basketball Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic: Update #4 - University of Northwestern Athletics

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Summer school for Tom Izzo, Michigan State basketball: Develop cohesion, prepare for Spain

Tom Izzo dispelled the erroneous notion that he won’t use the transfer portal. Twice over.

The next steps, now that the roster looks set for Michigan State basketball heading into the summer, is for Izzo to fit the pieces together, and for the players returning to figure out their new roles.

The Spartans will look much different when they take the court in November than they did in March, when their 20-15 season came to an end at the hands of top-seeded North Carolina in the second round of the NCAA tournament. Top contributors Tyson Walker and Malik Hall graduated, starting point guard A.J. Hoggard announced he is heading to Vanderbilt and one-time starting big man Mady Sissoko transferred to California.

ON THE GRIDIRON: Can't keep up with Michigan State football roster moves? Here's a cheat sheet

That leaves Izzo looking for star power to return his program to the NCAAs for a 27th straight year — and, hopefully, last longer in March Madness than the departing group was able to achieve the past three years. And it makes the next three months, before the Spartans travel to Spain in mid-August, critical to laying the groundwork for a schedule that jumps off in November with a big-time matchup vs. Kansas at the Champions Classic in Atlanta and MSU's first trip to the Maui Classic since 2019, followed by a 20-game Big Ten slate that includes trips to UCLA and USC and visits from Oregon and Washington.

Here is a checklist of work to be done for Izzo and his players this summer, before their 10-day trip to Spain from Aug. 13-22:

1. Get to the point

BACK ON THE COURT: Michigan State's Jeremy Fears shares road to recovery from gun shot at NCAA tournament

Perhaps the biggest albatross the past few seasons has been Izzo’s inability to get the type of steady play he demands from his point guard position, an issue since the coronavirus pandemic ended Cassius Winston’s final season prematurely in 2020. Experiments with Foster Loyer, Rocket Watts and Hoggard running the team produced inconsistent production.

Izzo feels he has a Mateen Cleaves-type leader in Jeremy Fears Jr., who continues to progress in his return from a gunshot wound to his upper left leg that ended his freshman season in December. Fears showed tantalizing talent in his brief 12-game debut, with an ability to run in transition, score and distribute while making those around him elevate their performances. He posted videos of himself getting back to playing in recent weeks, as well as one of him dunking (though not during a game), after progressively working his way back to shooting and then drillwork by the end of the Spartans’ season.

But what typically is a summer of personal growth heading into a sophomore season remains about rehabilitation for Fears. Getting him fully healthy for the season, even if that means sitting out what would be a tremendous opportunity for development in Spain, is the priority to ensure Fears can continue on the progression of being a difference-maker long-term.

The overseas trip then can become a showcase for junior Tre Holloman and incoming freshman Jase Richardson (son of former MSU star Jason Richardson), to show Izzo they deserve minutes behind Fears (or in place of him should there be lingering issues). Holloman was MSU’s most pleasant surprise last season and a test case of how critical the freshman-to-sophomore transition can be, emerging as a dynamic two-way player who can handle the ball and score from the perimeter.

The hope is that Richardson, with his 6-foot-3 frame, can follow the 6-2 Holloman’s blueprint and contribute both at point and shooting guard, but he also will need to quickly adjust defensively to the college game.

2. Making moves

No one should be happier about the additions of Omaha transfer Frankie Fidler and the departures of Hoggard and Walker than Jaden Akins.

The 6-4 guard spent the past three years on the wing instead of at his natural shooting guard spot. And while both the two spots are mostly interchangeable in Izzo’s offense, it often forced Akins to give up sometimes 3-4 inches against opposing wings with longer wingspans. Working against more similar-sized defenders should give Akins more room on his 3-point shot and provide opportunities to take them off the dribble, something he has known he must improve after testing the NBA draft process last spring.

More importantly, this is the chance for Akins to step out of the shadows of the veterans who left and assume ownership of the team. Somewhat quiet and stoic, the senior-to-be must become more vocal and a guiding force to help his younger teammates and newcomers understand Izzo’s demands.

Behind Akins, Holloman will be the second option at shooting guard, as he is at the point. Entering his third season, expect Holloman, along with Fears, to also emerge as emotional leaders.

The trip to Spain also should give an idea of what type of impact 6-4 freshman shooting guard Kur Teng can make. He and Richardson will be battling for minutes with the two returning veterans.

3. Fidler on the wing

Fidler should be an immediate offensive centerpiece next to Akins.

The 6-7, 217-pound swingman averaged 20.1 points and 6.3 rebounds while making 35.6% from 3-point range last season as the focus of Omaha’s offense. MSU’s games against what is expected to be high-level international competition in August will give a hint of how much of that scoring will translate to the Big Ten.

Coen Carr and Gehrig Normand should provide Izzo with lineup versatility.

Carr, a sturdy 6-5 sophomore, showed his ability to deliver highlight dunks and scoring down low but must spend this summer developing his jump shot. Defenders sagged off him anytime he touched the ball in the midrange (let alone on the perimeter), which neutralized his innate ability to slash to the basket off the dribble in the half-court offense. He also should see small forward time in smaller, more athletic lineups.

The 6-5 Normand, meanwhile, is more of a spot-up shooter who will need to work on the things Carr is good at —attacking the basket and running in transition. After redshirting last season, this summer and the Spain trip will be vital for him to shake off the rust and get ready to face college opponents.

4. Open the Book

As he watched the North Carolina team that would beat him two nights later emerge from the locker room in Charlotte, North Carolina, Izzo openly lamented how small his team looked last season.

Xavier Booker, and others, will change all of that this winter.

Of all the questions and frustrations from fans about Izzo’s rotation in the last few years, none can match how the Hall of Fame coach brought along the five-star Booker last season. Yet by the end of the season, the 6-11 freshman started to show more physicalness in the post and battling for rebounds while offensively stretching the floor from behind the arc.

Continuing to bulk up and get stronger are important summer missions for Booker, as is working on his understanding of Izzo’s gap defense to prevent getting beaten off the dribble. His ability to hit from deep presents a chance to put four perimeter threats on the floor at once and free up space on the interior.

Freshman Jesse McCulloch arrives with a lesser prospect pedigree (three stars) but similar size to Booker, a 6-10-and-growing stretch-four with a decent jump shot who also shows willingness to operate around the basket. Building strength and stamina will be vital for him to crack the rotation behind Booker, junior Carson Cooper and Carr.

5. Building (on the) blocks

The addition of Utah State/Longwood transfer 7-footer Szymon Zapala gives Izzo 13 scholarship players for the first time in the portal era and shores up the hole left by Sissoko’s transfer. However, the pressure will be on the junior tandem of the 6-11 Cooper and 6-9 Jaxon Kohler to prove Izzo’s belief in their abilities.

After Kohler looked primed for a breakout, his sophomore season never got on track after October foot surgery that sidelined him until January, mustering just 9.2 minutes a game in 21 appearances. Getting back his stamina and sharpening his defense while working on his back-to-the-basket moves are summer priorities.

With Kohler hampered and Sissoko struggling, Cooper — a late scholarship addition in 2022-23 who nearly took a redshirt that year — found himself thrust into a starting role in the final four games last season but averaged just 3.4 points and 4.4 rebounds in nearly 17 minutes per game overall. Improving his hands and offense around the basket are necessary, but Cooper’s defense and long wingspan will keep him as a pivotal part of the rotation.

That leads to Izzo’s biggest task of the summer: Figuring out how to best deploy that newfound height to maximize their potential into production that has been missing on the block. And how to turn all of it into a title contender by the time the Spartans return from Spain for the Big Ten bullfight that’s ahead.

Contact Chris Solari: [email protected] . Follow him  @chrissolari .

  Subscribe to the "Spartan Speak" podcast for new episodes weekly on  Apple Podcasts ,  Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts. And catch all of our podcasts and daily voice briefing at  freep.com/podcasts .

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Mission Trips: 1-12 Weeks

How might God use you if you took a step of faith to engage with His mission somewhere in the world? Cru offers many kinds of mission trips for college and high school students, working adults and families. Get out to the world! You can help make a huge impact in the lives of a person close to home or far away in a completely different culture or among people who still haven't heard the name of Jesus.

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Three missionaries, including American couple, killed by gang in Haiti

Three missionaries, including a married couple from the US, were killed in Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, on Thursday evening.

Davy and Natalie Lloyd “were attacked by gangs this evening and were both killed,” Natalie Lloyd’s father, Missouri state Rep. Ben Baker, said in a Facebook post . “They went to Heaven together.”

“Please pray for my family we desperately need strength. And please pray for the Lloyd family as well,” Baker said.

Mission director Jude Montis, 45, was also killed. All three worked for Missions in Haiti, Inc., which has been operated by Davy Lloyd’s parents for more than two decades, according to  the group’s website .

Davy Lloyd, 23, had a “love for Haiti,” his father David Lloyd told CNN. “His first language was Creole. He used to tell us when he was little that someday he was going to be a missionary in Haiti.”

He and Natalie Lloyd, 21, were ambushed as they left church in Port-au-Prince on Thursday evening, according to David Lloyd.

“Davy was taken to the house tied up and beat. The gang then took our trucks and loaded everything up they wanted and left,” a post on Missions in Haiti’s  Facebook page said.

Three hours later, the organization  posted  that the three missionaries “were shot and killed by the gang about 9 o’clock this evening. We all are devastated.”

It’s still unclear how exactly the missionaries were killed. The investigation into the killings is ongoing, and Haitian police have not yet released any details on them.

Local emergency response service Haitian Emergency Response Operations (HERO) assisted in coordinating and managing the operation to retrieve the bodies and transport the remains of the American couple to a hospital morgue.

“Currently, we are working to retrieve the bodies of Natalie and Davy,” Baker said on social media Friday night, adding that the effort will involve obtaining a waiver. “After that, we have to find an airline that will be willing to do the transport. Prayers that this will all go smoothly.”

He remembered the couple as people who put others before themselves, telling CNN Friday evening that he commends their bravery.

“I don’t think you can find a better example of people who truly had a deep love for the people of Haiti and had a vision to help them in anyway that they could and made such an impact there among the different ministries they were involved in,” Baker told CNN’s Kaitlan Collins on “The Source.”

‘Our last call’

David Lloyd told CNN that he was on the phone with his son during the attacks.

The mission and church across the street have two security guards, but when the 23-year-old came out of the church around 6 p.m., “three pick-up trucks full of guys with guns overwhelmed them immediately,” he said.

The armed men dragged Davy Lloyd to the house, tied him up, and started looting the compound, according to his father, who said children from the orphanage were in the compound at the time.

After the gang left with its haul, Davy Lloyd called his father.

“He was injured, and he was hurt. He was nervous, and very very scared,” David Lloyd said. “He was begging me to find someone to get in there and help him, and I did all I could but I couldn’t locate anybody.”

Then more armed men arrived, he said.

“He told me, ‘I have to go down, something else is going down. I gotta go see what it is,’” David Lloyd recalled. “That was basically our last call.”

Around that time, someone shot one of the newly arrived gang members, sparking a violent backlash, he said.

“Davy went in and barricaded himself in my personal home with his wife and (mission director) Jude Montis. The gang shot that place up until they got the door busted down and shot them, and set Davy and Jude on fire.”

HERO, the ambulance service, confirmed to CNN that Davy Lloyd’s body was found burned at the scene.

Haitian police will work with international law enforcement to investigate the killings, police spokesperson Gary Desrosiers told CNN on Friday.

“This is an open investigation but we are sure we will arrest those involved. For now, we’re working on protecting the public and the community while actively searching for the perpetrators,” he said.

On Missions in Haiti’s website, Davy Lloyd can be seen talking about growing up in the Caribbean nation and doing manual labor on the mission compound. He previously survived a kidnapping in Port-au-Prince in 2005, when he was just 5 years old, his father said.

According to a report that year by the Tulsa World newspaper, Davy Lloyd, his sister and foster sister were abducted in a carjacking on their way home from school. But police were able to locate the kidnappers, rescue the children and quickly return them to their parents, according to the report.

“We got them back 21 hours later,” David Lloyd recalled.

‘The security situation in Haiti cannot wait’

In a statement to CNN Friday, the White House said it was aware of the reports and expressed condolences while urging for the expedited deployment of UN Security Council-approved international police force to the region.

“We are aware of the reports of the deaths of U.S. citizens in Haiti. Our hearts go out to the families of those killed as they experience unimaginable grief,” a national security spokesperson told CNN.

“The security situation in Haiti cannot wait. That is why yesterday, President Biden reiterated our commitment to support the expedited the deployment of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission to bolster the Haitian National Police’s capabilities to protect civilians, restore the rule of law, and pave the way to democratic governance.”

Missouri Republican Gov. Mike Parson also mourned the couple’s loss on X Friday morning, calling it “absolutely heartbreaking news.”

Until now, the area around the Missions in Haiti compound had felt largely safe despite the violence in the rest of the city, according to David Lloyd, who was in the country until a few days ago.

“We haven’t really heard any gunshots in any of this. Our school’s been open, the church has been functioning, the bakery’s been selling bread every day,” he said.

When flights resumed last week to Port-au-Prince’s Toussaint Louverture International Airport, Lloyd said he asked his son and daughter-in-law if they would like to leave Haiti, but they declined.

“We know Haiti is a very volatile situation, we know that it’s dangerous,” he said. “But we had a good rapport with the groups in our area, and they’d left us alone. But from what I understand this was an outside group that came in initially from about a mile away, that started it all.”

Natalie Lloyd’s father told CNN the couple didn’t leave even when they had the opportunity to do so because of the children they were taking care of.

“They made the decision to remain even when it got worse because they felt like if they left, then those kids would have no where to go,” Baker said on “The Source.”

He believes the initial gang attack was just intended as a robbery, with the gangs trying to take what they can before the UN’s Multinational Security Support mission arrives.

“We have a pretty large mission compound, lots of stuff. With the international military force that’s supposed to be coming in any day, I think the gangs are trying to get all they can get because they realize their times may be coming to an end,” he said.

In a joint news conference with Kenyan President William Ruto on Thursday, Biden defended the decision not to deploy US troops to Haiti, telling reporters doing so could raise “all kinds of questions that can be easily misrepresented by what we’re trying to do, and be able to be used by those who disagree with us and against the interests of Haiti and the United States,” while pointing to material support, including equipment and training, the US has already provided to address the crisis.

The Facebook feed of Missions in Haiti has told the story of the increasing dire conditions in the country this year. “The gangs are still fighting for more control and chaos rules,” the organization  posted  April 23. “It seems the world has turned their backs on Haiti and it is going to be left in complete gang control.”

This story and headline have been updated with additional details.

CNN’s Donald Judd and Kaanita Iyer contributed to this report.

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Putin arrives in Uzbekistan on the 3rd foreign trip of his new term

Associated Press

Russian President Vladimir Putin takes part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument to the Independence of Uzbekistan in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Sunday, May 26, 2024. (Andrey Gordeev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

MOSCOW – Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived Sunday in the capital of Uzbekistan where he is to hold talks with President Shavkay Mirziyoyev that are expected to focus on deepening the countries' relations.

Putin laid a wreath at a momument to Uzbekistan's independence in Tashkent and held what the Kremlin said were informal talks with Mirziyoyev. The formal meeting of the presidents is to take place Monday.

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The visit is Putin's third foreign trip since being inaugurated for a fifth term in May. He first went to China , where he expressed appreciation for China's proposals for talks to end the Ukraine conflict, and later to Belarus where Russia has deployed tactical nuclear weapons.

Ahead of the Uzbekistan trip, Putin and Mirziyoyev discussed an array of bilateral cooperation issues, including trade and economic relations, the Kremlin said.

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