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CHRISTIAN DENTAL MISSION TRIP CHECKLIST
The question always comes up before going on a dental mission trip: How do I get ready for a mission trip? It is actually a two-part question. One part may involve some sort of mental/spiritual preparation, the other is the more physical “How am I going to pack my microwave all my other essential things and my clothes in one backpack?” and the sudden realization, “It weighs THAT much”!
Looking at the mental/spiritual aspect:
If you are at this point you have probably overcome the great hurdle. You have decided to step out of your everyday comfort zone and into something new and unfamiliar.
Keep in mind that a dental mission trip is not like a vacation where you go and see something different, observe another country, community or culture. As a visitor on vacation one can remain safely at a distance, observe and leave without much interaction. In dental mission, one gets up-close to others and has personal interactions. Even where there are language differences communication happens and a deeper understanding of our common humanity begins to grow. The mere thought of encounters with the unknown, different foods, unfamiliar smells, even unknown mission team members may cause some discomfort but remember that you are not alone. Even for veterans of other dental mission trips experience the discomfort knowing that every mission experience presents new and unknown opportunities and challenges.
Another essential in preparation for a dental mission trip or any other is to keep the concept of serving as Jesus served in the forefront of your mind. Some may have the mindset that one goes as a missioner to take God to those who have not received the Word of God as I have. And even though there may be some truth in that, the greater truth is that wherever one goes, God is there. The intention is to let the unconditional love that we have experienced shine through every word, every gesture, every action we take.
Looking at the mental/spiritual aspect:
If you are at this point you have probably overcome the great hurdle. You have decided to step out of your everyday comfort zone and into something new and unfamiliar.
Keep in mind that a dental mission trip is not like a vacation where you go and see something different, observe another country, community or culture. As a visitor on vacation one can remain safely at a distance, observe and leave without much interaction. In dental mission, one gets up-close to others and has personal interactions. Even where there are language differences communication happens and a deeper understanding of our common humanity begins to grow. The mere thought of encounters with the unknown, different foods, unfamiliar smells, even unknown mission team members may cause some discomfort but remember that you are not alone. Even for veterans of other dental mission trips experience the discomfort knowing that every mission experience presents new and unknown opportunities and challenges.
Another essential in preparation for a dental mission trip or any other is to keep the concept of serving as Jesus served in the forefront of your mind. Some may have the mindset that one goes as a missioner to take God to those who have not received the Word of God as I have. And even though there may be some truth in that, the greater truth is that wherever one goes, God is there. The intention is to let the unconditional love that we have experienced shine through every word, every gesture, every action we take.
The physical preparation:
What do I need to take with me? The short answer is “As little as possible.” But wait! There’s more.
Your passport is of utmost importance. It is also important that your passport is current with at least one year remaining before the expiration date. (this is a requirement in some countries.)
We also request each team member check only one piece of luggage. (We always have supplies that are checked in in individual’s names as luggage to minimize shipping costs.)
Pack one mission trip backpack or carry-on with at least one change of clothing maybe a good book to read and any essential medications or other items you can’t live without. Lost luggage happens sometimes.
What do I need to take with me? The short answer is “As little as possible.” But wait! There’s more.
Your passport is of utmost importance. It is also important that your passport is current with at least one year remaining before the expiration date. (this is a requirement in some countries.)
We also request each team member check only one piece of luggage. (We always have supplies that are checked in in individual’s names as luggage to minimize shipping costs.)
Pack one mission trip backpack or carry-on with at least one change of clothing maybe a good book to read and any essential medications or other items you can’t live without. Lost luggage happens sometimes.
