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Cheap mission trips are short-term mission opportunities that keep costs manageable without treating stewardship as an afterthought. That matters because mission trips can be financially out of reach for many people unless they plan carefully. The good news is that affordable mission trips do exist, and the best ones balance cost, purpose, timing, and a responsible sending partner. If you have wondered, "Are there affordable mission trips that still serve people well?" the answer is yes—but they start with wise planning. God has called His people to share the gospel with the world. He has also called them to be good stewards of the resources He provides. Where those two parts of the Christian life meet, you find the search for affordable mission trips. Many believers serve through career missions, but others take part through short-term and mid-term assignments that do not require a permanent move. Even then, the question of cost is real.    Key Takeaways Purpose Before Price: The best cheap mission trips start with honest motives because a low-cost trip is still the wrong choice if it is not shaped by service, obedience, and love for others. Wise Fit Matters: Choosing where to go, when to go, and who to go with helps you find a trip that matches both your calling and your budget. Cost Comes from Choices: Mission trip expenses often become more manageable when you choose a closer destination, travel with a group, and avoid unnecessary length or seasonal costs. Total Price Tells the Story: Affordable mission trips should be compared by full cost, since airfare, passports, meals, insurance, and ministry supplies may not be included in the advertised fee. Stewardship Shapes the Decision: Trusting God’s provision does not remove the need for planning, and the wisest approach is to set a realistic budget before committing to a trip.   Four Questions to Ask Before You Go The best way to identify a cheap mission trip is to make a plan. That means asking a few basic questions before you compare organizations or prices.   Why Do You Want to Go? This is still the most important question. A trip can fit your budget and still be the wrong choice if your motives are off. Before you look for cheap mission trips, take time to pray and ask whether your desire to go is shaped by service, obedience, and love for others.   Where Do You Want to Go? God may already be stirring your heart for a certain region or people group. In other cases, an opportunity may open somewhere you did not expect. Either way, look for a place where people truly need help and where you can serve in a healthy, useful way.   When Do You Want to Go? Timing affects cost more than many people realize. Some short-term trips last a week, while others last two weeks or longer. Mid-term and long-term assignments cost more because they usually involve more travel, housing, and logistical support.   Who Do You Want to Go With? You have plenty of options for a sending agency, church team, or mission organization. That makes research important. The right partner should help you think through cost, preparation, local ministry relationships, and what the trip is actually meant to accomplish. Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20).   How to Lower Mission Trip Costs If you are trying to find affordable mission trips, cost usually comes down to a few practical decisions. First, consider the destination. Domestic trips or trips to nearby countries often cost less than international flights to remote locations. Second, consider structure. Going with a church team or established organization can reduce costs because lodging, transportation, and ministry planning are often handled as a group. Third, think about the season and length. A shorter trip during a less expensive travel season may make much more sense than forcing a longer trip into your budget. Cheap mission trips are not always the lowest sticker price. Sometimes they are the trips that avoid unnecessary costs from the beginning. That is also why it helps to plan around real expenses, not rough guesses. Travel costs, passports, meals, ministry supplies, and local transportation can add up quickly. Putting together a clear mission trip budget early can save you from surprises later.   Affordable Mission Trips to Consider You have several solid options when it comes to organizations that offer affordable mission trips. In the list below, six programs stand out for offering meaningful opportunities with different price points and ministry focuses. Three are medical mission opportunities, and three are broader mission organizations. As always, “affordable” is relative. A trip that is realistic for one person may be out of reach for another, depending on length, destination, and travel costs. That is why it helps to compare total expenses, not just the advertised fee.   Medical Mission Opportunities Global Health Outreach connects medical professionals with short-term mission trips that support healthcare work around the world. For those in medicine, it can be a practical way to find structured, team-based opportunities. One World Health focuses on sustainable healthcare for underserved communities. Its mission trips work through local partners in places such as Nicaragua and Uganda and are tied to longer-term ministry and healthcare efforts. Volunteer HQ offers several medical mission options for different skill levels and specialties. Its range of locations and trip formats can make it easier for people in healthcare to compare affordable mission trips based on their background and availability.   General Mission Opportunities Operation Mobilization offers short-term mission trips and internships in the United States and overseas. Its broad reach makes it worth considering if you want flexibility in both location and type of ministry. SIM has a long history in global missions and offers experiences connected to education, social initiatives, church planting, Bible translation, and other ministry settings. That variety can help you match your interests with what is financially realistic. Adventures in Missions provides both short-term and long-term options for individuals and groups. Its listed costs may look lower than some others, but it is wise to factor in airfare and other travel expenses before assuming one option is cheaper.   What Mission Trip Costs Usually Include One reason people ask, "Are there affordable mission trips?" is that trip pricing can be confusing. The base number on a website often does not tell the whole story. In many cases, the advertised cost covers lodging, in-country transportation, ministry coordination, and some meals. Other costs may still be separate, including airfare, passports, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, and outreach materials. That is why two trips with similar prices can still end up costing very different amounts. If you need help bridging the gap, it also makes sense to think about how to raise money for mission trips. Some people also benefit from understanding how much support missionaries raise in general so that they can set realistic expectations for giving, fundraising, and church support.   One More Question to Ask There is one more question that belongs alongside the other four: How much can you actually spend? When it comes to missions, debt is not your friend. Many people delay or abandon ministry opportunities because they ignore their financial reality and hope things will somehow work themselves out. It is much wiser to build a realistic budget and let that shape your decisions. That does not mean money is the final word. God provides, and Scripture says a great deal about His care for His people in times of need. Spending time with a few Bible verses about provision can help steady your perspective as you pray through next steps. Still, trusting God’s provision does not cancel careful planning as we are called to be good stewards. If you are ready to move from research to action, take time to explore short-term mission opportunities and compare what fits your budget, schedule, and sense of calling.   Related Questions   What is the average cost of a mission trip? The average cost varies widely, but many short-term trips include a mix of program fees, airfare, meals, lodging, and local transportation that can add up to thousands of dollars.   How do you get funding for a mission trip? Many people fund mission trips through personal savings, church support, fundraising letters, and gifts from friends or family.   Can you get paid to go on mission trips? Most short-term mission trips are volunteer opportunities, though some long-term missionary roles may include a salary or support raising.   Can I write off mission trip expenses? Some mission trip expenses may be tax-deductible in specific situations, but you should check with a qualified tax professional before assuming they are.

How to develop nurse leaders: a literature review of approaches and a conversation about creating local, sustainable leadership development programs.

This lecture will describe complex humanitarian emergencies and the common diseases encountered and the persons affected. We will also discuss mental health issues encountered by victims and the humanitarian worker as well as describe how one can stay healthy in body, soul, and spirit dealing while dealing with the stress of living in working in such a context. https://bit.ly/gmhc2022_cathyh_complexhumanitarianemergencies

We live in the most amazing days since Jesus walked the earth. The global church is sprinting toward the finish line of the 2000-year Great Commission race, and by God’s grace, our generation may be the one to finish it. In this session, Douglas Cobb of The Finishing Fund will explain the global effort to get the gospel for the first time to the world’s last few unengaged people groups and will present the amazing promise of Matthew 24:14 that the completion of the Great Commission will open the door to the return of Christ.

Nurse mission trips are short-term or long-term service opportunities that allow nurses to use their clinical skills to care for people while serving alongside local ministries and healthcare teams. For nurses who want their work to meet both physical and spiritual needs, these trips can be a practical next step. They also give students and practicing nurses a chance to grow professionally, serve with humility, and see healthcare through a global lens. While doctors serve as missionaries around the world, they are not the only medical professionals on the field. Nurses have found a clear place in global missions, whether through short assignments, repeat trips, or long-term service. As a result, nurse mission trips have grown in both popularity and opportunity. If you are a practicing nurse, training to be a nurse, or still deciding whether nursing is the right path, medical mission trips for nurses can offer a meaningful experience and a better sense of where your skills may fit in God’s work. For some, one trip confirms a calling. For others, it becomes the first step toward a much longer mission journey.   Key Takeaways Global Healthcare Need: Growing healthcare gaps in underserved regions create real opportunities for nurses to support medical teams and serve patients through nurse mission trips. Character Before Skill: Effective medical mission trips for nurses require humility, flexibility, teamwork, and spiritual maturity alongside clinical training. Practical Nursing Roles: Nurses on mission trips often assist with triage, patient care, education, wound treatment, and support for physicians and local healthcare workers. Multiple Paths to Serve: Nurses can explore mission opportunities through universities, specialized ministries, volunteer organizations, and professional Christian nursing networks. Thoughtful Next Steps: Nurses interested in missions should begin with prayer, conversations with mentors and church leaders, and realistic planning for travel, timing, and cost.   Getting Prepared for Your Nurse Mission Trip Healthcare needs around the world continue to grow, especially in underresourced and underserved communities. That means the need for nurses and other medical professionals is growing as well. In the right setting, nurse mission trips can support overwhelmed teams, strengthen local ministries, and serve patients who may have little access to consistent care. That said, preparation matters. Before you commit to one of the many medical mission trips for nurses, it is wise to examine your motives, your expectations, and your willingness to serve under local leadership. Flexibility, teamwork, humility, and spiritual maturity matter as much as clinical skill. It also helps to do careful research. A strong sending organization should think clearly about local partnerships, patient care, safety, scope of practice, and long-term impact. The goal is not simply to go somewhere needed. The goal is to serve well, represent Christ faithfully, and avoid creating problems for the people you want to help. If you are still sorting out what the path could look like, taking time to understand how to become a missionary can help you think through calling, preparation, and next steps. Nurses who want to explore missions without leaving their profession behind may also benefit from starting their missions journey as a traveling nurse.   What Nurses Do on Mission Trips One of the most common questions about nurse mission trips is simple: what do nurses actually do once they arrive? The answer depends on the trip, the setting, and the needs of the local team. Nurses may help with triage, patient education, wound care, intake, vitals, follow-up instructions, or support for physicians and advanced practice providers. In some settings, they may also help train local staff, assist with community health efforts, or teach prevention strategies that continue after the trip ends. That variety is one reason medical mission trips for nurses appeal to so many people in the field. Nursing is already built around close patient contact, practical problem-solving, and communication. Those strengths often transfer well across cultures when nurses stay teachable and work within their training. A closer look at the role of the nurse on the mission field can help clarify what responsible service looks like in different settings.   5 Nurse Mission Trips to Consider If you are wondering where to start, the good news is that there are several strong options for nurse mission trips. Some are designed for students. Others are a better fit for experienced nurses. The key is finding the kind of placement that matches your training, season of life, and desire to serve.   1. University Nursing Programs If you are a nursing student or even a high school student comparing colleges, your school may already offer international or cross-cultural service opportunities. That is especially common at Christian colleges and universities that connect nursing education with a broader view of missions. In some cases, students can join short-term trips. In others, they may spend part of a semester serving abroad.   2. Nursing Beyond Borders Nursing Beyond Borders exists to prevent disease through nurse-led care and education in underserved communities. The organization offers both team and individual opportunities, and its work includes clinics, schools, shelters, and other community settings where nurses can support both treatment and prevention. That makes it a practical option for nurses who want direct service experience with a clear public health emphasis.   3. Coalition of Christian Nurse Practitioners The Coalition of Christian Nurse Practitioners is a specialty section of CMDA that encourages and equips advanced practice nurses to follow Christ faithfully in their profession. It is closely connected to a broader Christian medical network, which can make it a useful starting place for nurses who want fellowship, formation, and a stronger connection to global healthcare missions.   4. International Volunteer HQ International Volunteer HQ offers medical volunteer placements for nursing and other healthcare roles across several specialties and locations. Some opportunities are designed for students, while others fit licensed professionals with more experience. For nurses who want flexibility in destination and type of service, it remains one of the better-known entry points.   5. Nurses Christian Fellowship Nurses Christian Fellowship is a professional organization that supports nurses, educators, and students who want to follow Christ in nursing. It does not center its work on sending trips, but it offers encouragement, community, and resources that can help nurses prepare well for missions. That can be especially valuable if you want to grow spiritually and professionally before stepping into medical mission trips for nurses.   Where to Start A good first step is to talk with your church and with trusted mentors who know both your nursing work and your spiritual life. Ask where your current skills would be useful, what kind of setting fits your experience, and whether this is the right season to go. Some people begin with a short-term trip. Others need more time, training, or clarity before they commit. It is also worth thinking about cost early. Travel, housing, food, team fees, immunizations, and time away from work can all shape the real cost of a trip. Planning ahead keeps financial pressure from turning into a distraction later.   Be Jesus’s Hands and Feet In many nursing programs, graduates take part in a blessing of the hands ceremony. For Christian nurses, that image carries real weight. Nursing often places you in front of people during some of the hardest moments of their lives, which creates a unique opportunity to care for the whole person with skill, dignity, and compassion. That is part of what makes nurse mission trips so compelling. They let you serve people in need while deepening your own dependence on Christ. They also remind you that nursing is not only technical work. It is relational work, and for believers, it can be ministry.  If you are ready to move from interest to action, take time to explore domestic mission opportunities that may fit your training, schedule, and level of experience. For many nurses, the best next step is not the farthest one. It is the one that puts their skills to work faithfully and wisely.   Related Questions   What do nurses do on mission trips? Nurses on mission trips may help with triage, patient care, health education, wound care, and support for local medical teams.   Do nurses get paid for mission trips? Most short-term nurse mission trips are volunteer-based, though some long-term or structured roles may include financial support.   How do you become a missionary nurse? You become a missionary nurse by gaining nursing training and experience, then partnering with a ministry or organization that aligns with your skills and calling.   How much does a mission trip typically cost? The cost varies by location and length, but airfare, housing, meals, supplies, and team fees usually make up the largest expenses.

Family mission trips are short-term service opportunities that let parents and children serve Christ together in another community or country. They give families a practical way to live out the Great Commission while learning from believers in other places. Done well, they also help children see that a mission trip is not a vacation with a service project added on top—it is service first, shaped by humility, prayer, and a willingness to learn.   Key Takeaways Shared Service Opportunity: Family mission trips give parents and children a meaningful way to serve together rather than treating missions as something only individuals or couples do overseas. Faith That Becomes Visible: Serving together helps children connect faith with action and see that God is at work beyond their own church, school, and neighborhood. Clear Preparation at Home: Families should prepare children by explaining where they are going, why they are going, and how the trip is centered on serving and loving others. Practical Planning Matters: Thinking through flights, routines, comfort items, packing, and ministry needs ahead of time helps families avoid unnecessary stress and stay focused on service. Simple Next Step Options: Families can begin by talking together and with their church, then move forward by praying, giving, or choosing a trip that fits their children, budget, and season of life.   Why Family Mission Trips Matter The common image of a missionary is an individual or couple moving overseas for a lifetime of service. That still happens, of course, but it is not the only way to do missions. Family mission trips also give parents and children a meaningful way to serve together. Some benefits are easy to see. You make memories together, and you also help your children connect faith with action. In many homes, mission trips for families become a turning point because children begin to understand that God is at work far beyond their own church, school, and neighborhood. Family mission trips can also widen a child’s view of the world. They meet people with different languages, customs, and daily routines, yet they also see the same image of God in them. That kind of exposure can build gratitude, compassion, and a deeper respect for the global church. Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:18-20).   How to Prepare Kids for The Trip The best place to start is at home. Talk with your children about where you are going, why your family is going, and what the people there are like. Keep the focus clear: the goal is to serve and love others as Christ loves us. You can also build anticipation by reading mission trip Bible verses together and praying for the people you will meet. It also helps to prepare for the practical side. Long flights, time changes, and unfamiliar routines can wear children down, so think through snacks, rest, and simple comfort items before you leave.  Packing deserves attention too. A thoughtful list keeps the trip focused and cuts down on stress once you arrive. Before you go, spend time packing for the journey and reviewing what your team or host ministry actually needs.   Five Organizations to Consider If you are ready to compare family mission trips, these five organizations are a strong place to start.   1. World Missions Alliance World Missions Alliance offers short-term mission opportunities and resources for Christians exploring cross-cultural service. For families who want guidance with the next step, it can be a helpful place to begin asking questions about destination, logistics, and fit.   2. e3 Legacy e3 Legacy is built with families and multiple generations in mind. Its trips are designed to help families serve together while partnering with local believers in evangelism, discipleship, and church planting, and e3 currently lists family opportunities through its Legacy ministry and trip network.   3. Bold Hope Bold Hope specifically offers family mission trips and describes them as week-long opportunities designed to be safe and simple for families. The ministry handles in-country logistics and currently lists trips in multiple countries, which can make planning easier for parents traveling with children.   4. Mission Discovery Mission Discovery remains a solid option for mission trips for families because it includes family-designated trips in both U.S. and international settings. Its current listings include places such as the Bahamas and Phoenix, which give families room to choose the kind of setting and travel distance that makes sense for their season of life.   5. World Gospel Outreach World Gospel Outreach serves in Honduras and Belize and welcomes teams that want to support local churches through ministries such as medical care, construction, Vacation Bible School, and community outreach. That range can make it a good fit for families with different ages and skill levels, especially when parents want their children to see both compassion ministry and gospel witness side by side.   Where to Start Start by talking as a family, then talk with your church. Ask what kind of trip would serve others well and what kind of trip would be wise for your children right now. Some families are ready for international travel, while others should begin closer to home. Cost matters too, especially when several family members are going. As you compare mission trips for families, think through airfare, lodging, meals, local transportation, and ministry expenses so you are not surprised later. Building a realistic mission trip budget early can save a lot of stress.   Pray, Give, or Go When it comes to family mission trips, the choices are still simple: pray, give, or go. Families can pray for missionaries together, support faithful ministries financially, or take the step of serving in person. None of those responses is small, and none of them stands alone. Even if your family is not ready to travel yet, praying for those on the field is real participation in the work of missions. And if God is opening the door for your family to go, the next step is not to overcomplicate it. Find a faithful partner, prepare carefully, and take the first step. Want to look beyond these five options? Explore more short-term mission opportunities and compare what might fit your family best.   Related Questions   Can children go on mission trips? Yes, many ministries welcome children, but age requirements and roles vary by organization and destination.   What are missionary kids called? Missionary kids are often called MKs, which is short for missionary kids.   What is the average cost of a mission trip? The cost varies by destination and length, but airfare, lodging, meals, and ministry expenses usually make up most of the total.   What should you not bring on a mission trip? Do not bring anything flashy, unnecessary, or culturally insensitive that could distract from service.

A medical mission trip packing list is a simple plan for bringing what you truly need without overpacking or forgetting essentials. It helps you travel confidently, respect local culture, and stay ready to serve from day one.  Packing for any trip matters. Whether it’s an overnight stay with relatives or an extended trip overseas, having what you need makes all the difference. Realizing you left something important behind can derail the first few days. That’s why a medical mission equipment packing list can be your best friend. You might be a veteran traveler or stepping onto your first mission assignment. Either way, a thoughtful medical mission trip packing list often marks the difference between a smooth launch and a frustrating start.   Key Takeaways Researching your destination, trip length, cultural expectations, and airline restrictions is the first step in building an effective medical mission trip packing list. A strong medical mission trip packing list includes essential documents, proper adapters, functional comfort items, and culturally appropriate clothing. Your medical missions equipment packing list should match your clinical role and the host team’s plan, ensuring you bring the necessary tools without exceeding baggage limits. Knowing what not to pack—such as valuables, unapproved medications, or excess luggage—protects both you and the host ministry from unnecessary complications. Beyond physical items, successful preparation also requires humility, flexibility, biblical grounding, and a clear understanding of the organization supporting your mission trip.   Do Your Research Ahead of Time Start by learning what your trip will actually require. Medical mission opportunities vary widely. You might serve for a short-term project or prepare for a longer assignment, and the length of your stay will shape your medical mission trip packing list. Next, consider location and timing. Research the culture and the season so your clothing choices and daily habits honor local expectations. You don’t want to accidentally offend someone, and you don’t want to get caught unprepared for heat, cold, or heavy rain. Then check baggage restrictions. Airlines limit weight and size, so prioritize what matters most. Decide what goes in a checked bag and what stays with you. If luggage disappears for a day or two, your carry-on should still cover basics like one change of clothes, toiletries, and prescription medications.   Build Your Medical Mission Trip Packing List The group or agency you’re traveling with can answer many questions based on your specific role and destination. Some teams also provide a standard supply list and clarify what the host site already has. Still, your medical mission trip packing list needs to fit your body, your work, and your responsibilities. Use the categories below as a starting point. This medical mission trip packing list is not exhaustive, but it will help you think clearly about what supports your work and what adds unnecessary weight.   Travel Documents You won’t get far without a passport, any required visa, flight confirmation, and photo identification. Bring a printed itinerary, insurance information, and a list of important phone numbers. Many experienced travelers also keep copies of key documents on their phone and in a separate bag. If you lose a wallet, you’ll be glad you planned for it.   Chargers and Adapters Many countries use different plugs, and some use different electrical standards. Research the destination and pack the correct adapter for your devices. In some settings, a small surge protector and a power bank also prevent headaches when electricity is unstable.   Comfort and Function Items Comfort often means “functional.” These items protect your health and help you carry out daily routines during the project. Depending on the destination, consider a filtered water bottle or purification tablets. A waterproof backpack helps protect valuables and supplies. Sleeping sheets or a lightweight sleeping bag can matter more than you expect. Hand sanitizer and wipes help when running water is limited. A small language dictionary or translation app can also reduce daily friction.   Appropriate Clothing Clothing seems obvious, but it deserves extra thought for cross-cultural settings. Many clinical environments accept scrubs and pants, while other settings expect more modest options such as longer skirts or looser clothing. Plan for long days on your feet. Choose comfortable shoes that you have already broken in. Your medical mission trip packing list should support both cultural respect and physical endurance.   Medical Missions Equipment Packing List Essentials Your medical missions equipment packing list depends on your scope of practice and what the host team provides, so confirm expectations early. As a starting point, many clinicians bring core tools they rely on daily, plus a few items that protect safety and efficiency. For example, you may need your stethoscope and basic exam tools. You may also pack gloves, an N95 respirator, and eye protection depending on the setting. A headlamp can be surprisingly useful during early mornings, late evenings, or power outages. Some teams ask participants to transport medicines or supplies for the project. Always ask before packing medications, and follow the team’s instructions closely. Leave room in your bags so you can carry assigned items without exceeding airline limits. A medical mission trip packing list works best when it matches the team plan.   What Not to Bring on a Mission Trip Knowing what to leave at home can be just as important as knowing what to pack. Skip expensive jewelry and anything you would feel crushed to lose. Avoid clothing that clashes with local norms. Leave behind unnecessary valuables and flashy electronics that can distract you or create security issues. Do not pack unapproved medications or supplies “just in case.” If your team has protocols, follow them. Bringing restricted items can create problems at customs or put the host ministry in a difficult position. Finally, avoid overpacking. Extra weight can limit your ability to carry team supplies and can slow down travel.   Personal Items and Small Gifts Many travelers bring reading material for downtime and a camera for memories and supporter updates. A journal and a few pens can help you process what you’re learning, both during the trip and after you return home. Small gifts can also be meaningful. They do not need to be expensive. A simple item for children, a thank-you gift for hosts, or a small token for a translator can communicate gratitude without taking much space.   Pack the Intangibles That Matter Most Your medical mission trip packing list focuses on tangible items, but your posture matters just as much. Pack humility, flexibility, and a willingness to learn from local leaders. Also, take along Scripture passages that will help encourage you and prepare you for the trip ahead. If you are going through an organization, it helps to understand how support and oversight work before you leave. Learning about mission sending agencies can clarify expectations around training, logistics, and care.   Ready to Put Your List to Work? If you want to go on a mission trip but don’t know how or where to start, looking at short-term mission trip opportunities is a good next step.    Related Questions   What should I not bring on a mission trip? Avoid valuables, culturally inappropriate clothing, and any medications or supplies your team has not approved.   What is the average cost of a mission trip? Costs vary widely by location and length, but most short-term trips involve fundraising or out-of-pocket expenses for travel, lodging, and fees.   What does God say about mission trips? Jesus commands believers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), which gives mission work its purpose and direction.   What are some common mistakes to avoid as a missionary? Common mistakes include overpacking, ignoring cultural norms, bypassing team protocols, and arriving unprepared to adapt to limited resources.  

The behavioral health literature on resilience identifies religious belief and practice as important factors contributing to psychological resilience. This literature frequently advocates Eastern religious methods of meditation and exercise as means of enhancing resilience in vulnerable individuals. Much smaller literature suggests that Christian spiritual routines might enhance resilience. This presentation proposes that the ancient Christian practice of praying the psalms enhances resilience. It describes the history and methods by which Christians usually pray the psalms. Using several specific psalm examples, the presentation describes the means by which praying the psalms provides a framework to courageously face distress as well as to endure, by God’s grace, during times of hardship. Presentation slides: https://bit.ly/gmhc2022_samueltheilman_enhanceresilienceprayingthepsalms

Spirituality is an important component of health, and assessing a patient's spirituality is a cultural competence of healthcare professionals. This session will review the scientific evidence for links between spirituality, religious practice and health outcomes, consider what medical and nursing association guidelines say about incorporating spiritual assessments into medical practice, and describe a practical, context-appropriate framework for assessing patient spirituality in medical and nursing practice.

Breaking the Chains of Dependency: Impacting underserved communities through servant leadership Underserved communities, such as those in Africa, have been the long-time recipients of outside aid, yet there is little sustainable change. Dependency on outside resources and hierarchal, foreign leadership remains. Could following the example of Jesus’ use of servant leadership be a way to break dependency and bring sustainable change to these communities? A small, community-based health clinic in Mauritania, Africa, was a traditional, non-governmental run clinic for 15 years, relying heavily on foreign staff for leadership and decision-making. Desiring to empower local leadership and encourage ownership, a new leadership style was introduced. Using a servant leader, holistic approach along with cultural contextualization, education, guiding a shared vision, and instilling dignity and hope, in less than a year a shift happened. Personal ownership, critical thinking, shared-decision making, and local leadership are replacing previous dependency.

The 5 most common neglected tropical diseases affect over 1.5 billion people, including more than 1 billion children. Medical missionaries working in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia will certainly come in contact with most of these diseases on a daily basis. It is time for us to do more than just treat them. Mass drug adminstration programs were developed to help control and eradicate these diseases. This lecture will discuss how we can be a part of the solution.

At Life in Abundance we believe that investment in the local church is both an effective and transformative tool for sustainable community development, sustainable community health, and sustainable social and spiritual change. There are stories, there is a model and there is movement taking place across the global south and I look forward to sharing this with you.