Content Resources

In this session, 'An Outrageous Hope for the Exploited and Trafficked,' Rachelle Starr, founder of Scarlet Hope and author of "Outrageous Obedience", shares transformative strategies for extending Christ's love and hope to those affected by exploitation and human trafficking. Discover how faith-based outreach can create pathways to healing and empowerment, reshaping lives and restoring dignity in the darkest of circumstances. Speaker name(s): Rachelle Starr Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/an-outrageous-hope-for-the-exploited-and-trafficked

In this breakout session, we will explore cultural aspects of child mental health across the globe. How helpful are our “western” diagnoses for children and adolescents in the Global South? Does autism, trauma, depression, etc. look the same across cultures? Are our therapeutic approaches relevant and sustainable? How do we build the capacity of local providers and encourage Christians to provide care and address stigma? Speaker name(s): Heleen Yoder Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/addressing-child-mental-health-needs-across-cultures

Team discord is one of the most potent causes of healthcare missionary discontent and early departure from the field. However, a few healthcare mission teams report a high level of concord and mutual support. We will explore common characteristics of those "Happy Places" and consider why those factors lead to a more biblical and joyous unity despite challenging circumstances. Speaker name(s): Jim Ritchie Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/the-happy-places-lessons-from-healthcare-mission-stations-with-happy-teams

A collaborative approach to learning more about kingdom-minded Family Medicine residencies: location, vision, etc. Come join this special time with med students and residents. Speaker name(s): Carena Chai (Todd Stephens, Liz Redican, Steve Manock, Cleon Rogers, Jonathon Peters, John McVay and lots of Family Medicine residents) Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/exploring-kingdom-minded-family-medicine-residency-programs

Culture shock is one of the things those serving on cross-cultural missions may experience. There may not be a process in place for those serving to debrief the experience. Often there is so much focus on the task to be done, that processing the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes may be overlooked. Those serving cross-culturally on short-term, mid-term, and long-term assignments could benefit from identifying the benefits and best practices of debriefing. Speaker(s): Rebecca Meyer Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/minimizing-culture-shock-through-structured-debriefing

Two cases of extra-pulmonary tb encountered in LMICs are presented Speaker(s): Scott Armistead Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/case-studies-in-extra-pulmonary-tb

TL;DR: Raising support for mission trips doesn’t have to feel awkward or overwhelming. By approaching fundraising as an invitation—not an obligation—you can gather the right partners, move quickly, and stay focused on your mission. Raising money for mission trips isn’t just about strategy—it’s about inviting others into what God is already doing through clear, compelling communication. And it’s not reserved for full-time missionaries. Whether you're preparing for your first trip or returning for the tenth time, there are strategic, creative, and Christ-centered ways to fundraise without burnout.   Fundraising Starts with a Shift in Mindset Most people don’t love asking for money. That’s normal. But when fundraising becomes about partnership, not pressure, it changes everything. You’re not begging—you’re building. You’re inviting friends, family, and churches to sow into something that matters. Paul modeled this in Philippians 4, where he thanked the church not for charity, but for their “partnership in the gospel” (Philippians 1:5).    How to Raise Money for a Mission Trip Fast Start with clarity. People give to vision, not vague goals. Before asking anyone for anything, write out what the trip is, what you'll be doing, and why it matters to you. Make it personal. A generic letter won’t get far. Share your story—why you're going, what God has put on your heart, and what you're trusting Him to do through the trip. Be clear about costs. Break down what your funds will cover—flights, lodging, supplies, etc.—so people know their gifts are being stewarded. Ask directly. It’s tempting to post and pray, but the most effective way to raise money for a mission trip fast is to reach out personally. Text, call, or meet with people one-on-one. Follow up. Don’t assume a no just because someone doesn’t reply right away. A gentle follow-up often unlocks support. If you're new to this process, some field-tested principles for effective fundraising can help you avoid common mistakes while building lasting relationships.   Creative Ways to Fundraise for a Mission Trip Support raising doesn’t have to be boring—or exhausting. Some of the most successful fundraisers are also the most creative: Custom t-shirts or mugs. Design simple merchandise with a Scripture verse or phrase that connects to your mission trip, then sell them through local churches or online platforms. Bake sales or coffee bars. Set up outside a church or community event and offer treats for donations. Pair it with a storyboard that shows why you’re going. Car washes or yard work. Offer practical services in exchange for mission support—this works especially well for teams. Silent auctions or donation-matching campaigns. Ask local businesses to donate goods or services, and use your network to spread the word. You can also plan ahead using a thorough mission trip packing list to make sure your fundraising efforts match what you’ll actually need in the field.   Use the Right Tools to Stay Organized One of the best ways to fundraise for a mission trip fast is to get organized early. Use tools like Google Sheets or support-raising platforms to track donors, send updates, and manage deadlines. Sending thank-you notes and prayer requests builds long-term relationships—many supporters will want to give again in the future.   Don’t Forget the Spiritual Side Raising support isn’t just logistical. It’s deeply spiritual. It forces dependence on God, opens opportunities for testimony, and often deepens your sense of calling. If you're wrestling with the tension between calling and cost, understanding what missionaries do can help clarify what you’re inviting people into. You’re not just raising money—you’re opening a door for others to invest in something that matters eternally.   Fundraising as Formation, Not Just Finances Support raising will stretch you—but that’s part of the process. It builds humility, prayerfulness, and perseverance. Whether your trip is two weeks or two years long, this is part of your preparation. If you're unsure where to begin, you can use a fundraising checklist as a practical starting point for planning your approach with wisdom and structure.   You’re Not Alone in the Journey Many who fundraise for missions worry they’re too late, too inexperienced, or too under-resourced. But every missionary—whether short-term or long-term—starts with faith, not finances. If you feel called to go, there are short-term mission opportunities specifically designed to help you take the next step with training, guidance, and experienced partners already in place.   Related Questions   How do I raise money for a mission trip? Start with personal outreach, clear goals, and creative fundraisers that engage your community.   Are there grants for mission trips? Yes—some churches, denominations, and organizations offer grants or sponsorships for qualified applicants.   What type of fundraiser makes the most money? Personal appeals with direct asks and matching campaigns tend to raise the most support.   Do churches pay for mission trips? Some churches partially or fully fund mission trips, especially for members or supported partners.

What is a call? How does a person know if God is calling them to mission service? Join in a discussion as these and other questions are addressed. Speaker(s): Rebekah Naylor B.A., M.D Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/a-call

In this session, we will review 10 potentially practice-changing articles for primary care in the developed and developing world from 2020-2025 and will present each of these articles in a few minutes, critically appraising the articles and highlighting the positives and negatives of each. We will also discuss issues related to the applicability of this research in different settings. Speaker(s): Philip Dooley; Jeff Leman Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/top-10-research-papers-in-global-health

TL;DR: Missionaries do far more than preach. They provide medical care, support communities, disciple leaders, and share Christ through everyday work. You don’t need a seminary degree to start—just a faithful heart and a willingness to go where God leads. Missionaries meet spiritual and physical needs across cultures, using whatever they’ve been given to build trust and share the gospel. The skills needed to be a missionary can include medical training, cross-cultural communication, teaching, or even business—anything that helps serve people and reflect Christ.   Missionary Work Starts with Presence, Not a Pulpit What do missionaries do? More than most people think. While evangelism is central, missionary work often begins with service—caring for physical, emotional, and relational needs. Many missionaries spend their days listening, building trust, learning a language, and participating in the daily life of a community. Whether through teaching, farming, or healthcare, they reflect the heart of Christ by meeting people where they are. In fact, the history of medical missions shows that healing bodies has opened doors to healing hearts.   The Bible’s Vision for Mission Work What does the Bible say about missionaries? Scripture doesn’t use the modern term, but the calling is clear. Jesus says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). Paul’s letters are filled with stories of travel, encouragement, suffering, and teaching—each part of what it means to live on mission. Missionaries aren’t defined by a title—they’re defined by obedience. Whether they cross oceans or work in their hometown, they carry the gospel with them, fulfilling the call—seen throughout the Bible—to go and serve.   Missionaries Are Nurses, Carpenters, and Students One of the biggest myths about missionary work is that it only applies to pastors or Bible teachers. Missionaries come from all backgrounds. You’ll find healthcare workers leading pediatric mission trips, engineers helping build water systems, and tech workers training local nonprofits. Medical mission trips, in particular, are worthwhile experiences and continue to be some of the most strategic and sustainable forms of outreach, especially when they support and strengthen long-term partnerships already in place.   What Missionaries Actually Do Day to Day Depending on their assignment and setting, missionaries might: Run health clinics or mobile medical units Teach in local schools or vocational training centers Plant and support churches Train local leaders and disciple new believers Offer trauma counseling and family support Start small businesses that provide jobs Translate Scripture or teach English Missionaries build bridges—not empires. They enter slowly, listen well, and serve with a quiet and generous spirit.    Do Missionaries Get Paid? Are They Sent? Missionaries don’t always earn a traditional salary, but many receive financial support from churches, mission agencies, or individual donors. Most raise personal support by building a team of partners—people who give monthly or annually so the missionary can focus on their work full-time. Support-raising often involves casting vision, building relationships, and sharing regular updates with those who give. In some cases, missionaries work part-time or full-time jobs (known as bi-vocational missions) to support themselves while serving. Others receive a stipend or are fully funded through sending organizations that handle their logistics and care. Regardless of the model, missionaries are typically responsible for their own budgets, which can include housing, travel, insurance, ministry expenses, and retirement. It requires faith, planning, and a lot of communication—but it can result in a network of people who are spiritually and financially invested in the mission.   You Don’t Have to Move Overseas to Be a Missionary Mission work isn’t always global. Many communities across the U.S. need the same kind of intentional, Christ-centered service found on international mission fields. Whether you're supporting refugees, mentoring youth, or serving in under-resourced medical clinics, you're living out the mission. If you’re wondering where to begin, exploring domestic mission opportunities can help you discern how your unique gifts can be used right now. Missionary work isn’t reserved for the elite. It’s for anyone willing to go—whether across the street or across the world.   Related Questions   What is the main purpose of a missionary? To share the gospel and serve others through Christ-centered presence and action.   Do missionaries make money? Many raise support, others are salaried, and some are bi-vocational.   What are missionaries not allowed to do? Depending on local laws, missionaries may need to obtain permits, follow visa restrictions, get vaccinated, or complete screening processes before serving.   What are the activities done by missionaries? Activities range from teaching and healing to mentoring, building, translating, and church planting.

Have you ever considered how your professional skills can be used to advance God’s kingdom? Your career and ministry should not function separately — your career is your ministry. Speaker(s): Brian C.; Wes Sheffield Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/ministry-in-the-marketplace

TL;DR: An honor and shame culture shapes how people see themselves, their communities, and their need for redemption. When missionaries understand this dynamic, they can minister more effectively, avoid unintended offense, and communicate the gospel in ways that bring true healing and restoration. Honor and shame cultures shape how communities define identity, morality, and restoration, and in many parts of the world, shame—not guilt—is the dominant force shaping how people hear and respond to the gospel. Sharing the gospel in these contexts requires a shift in language, posture, and practice.   What Is an Honor and Shame Culture? In Western contexts, guilt and innocence tend to define moral failure. If you break a rule, you’re guilty. Justice means punishment, and forgiveness wipes the slate clean. But in many cultures across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, morality revolves around honor and shame. It’s not just about what you did—it’s about whether your actions bring honor or disgrace to your family, tribe, or community. People live with the constant awareness of how others perceive them. Honor builds identity. Shame destroys it.   Why the Gospel Must Sound Different If your gospel message is built around guilt and legal forgiveness, it may not connect in honor-shame cultures. You’re speaking a language people aren’t asking questions in. Imagine telling someone “Jesus paid the penalty for your sin”—but they aren’t primarily concerned with guilt. They’re asking, Have I brought shame on my family? Can I be restored? Do I belong again? The Bible speaks directly to these needs. The prodigal son wasn’t just forgiven—he was re-clothed, re-named, and re-honored by the father (Luke 15:22). Jesus endured public shame so that we might be honored in Him (Hebrews 12:2). These truths are more than theological—they’re deeply cultural.   How to Minister in Honor and Shame Cultures To serve well in these contexts, you need more than cross-cultural curiosity. You need cultural fluency. That means paying attention to unspoken rules and relational dynamics that determine what’s honorable and what brings shame. That said, here are a few starting points:   1. Understand the weight of community over individualism Westerners often focus on personal faith. But in many places, the group matters more than the individual. Decisions are made collectively, and faith often grows best in family or community settings. 2. Restore before you rebuke Public correction can create unbearable shame. If someone has failed or sinned, privately restoring them is often a more biblical and effective path (Galatians 6:1). 3. Watch how honor is gained and given In some cultures, being served is an act of shame. You may think you’re offering help, but the form it takes could unintentionally disempower. Understanding honor-shame dynamics helps prevent these moments of accidental harm. 4. Let the gospel speak to shame When Paul writes, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1), that’s not just legal language—it’s relational healing. Condemnation isn’t only about guilt. It’s about being cast out. And Christ brings us back in.   Why Cross-Cultural Awareness Isn’t Optional The more deeply you enter into long-term missions, the more essential this becomes. Without cultural awareness, you may unknowingly offend or confuse the very people you’re called to love. And when you’re already in a new country, learning from scratch can feel overwhelming. Minimizing culture shock starts by preparing your heart and mindset beforehand—and debriefing well after. More than ever, the global mission field requires humble learners. The gospel never changes, but how it’s heard depends entirely on context.   Long-Term Ministry Requires Long-Term Learning Ministering in honor and shame cultures isn’t about mastering a checklist. It’s about posturing yourself as a servant in every setting. Cross-cultural missions will stretch your assumptions about communication, hospitality, and leadership. But if you stay patient, observant, and grounded in Scripture, you’ll find the gospel opens up in powerful, unexpected ways.   Ready to Go Deeper? If you feel called to share the gospel cross-culturally, it’s worth investing in the skills and mindsets that build real trust. Short-term trips are helpful—but long-term ministry changes everything, especially in places where honor and shame shape every conversation. Explore long-term mission opportunities designed to help you grow in cultural fluency and spiritual resilience. Because faithfulness in unfamiliar places starts with listening well.   Related Questions What is an example of an honor culture? Many Middle Eastern, African, and Asian cultures operate primarily as honor-shame cultures, where reputation defines morality.   What is the difference between a guilt culture and a shame culture? Guilt cultures focus on internal conscience and rule-breaking; shame cultures emphasize social reputation and communal judgment.   Was ancient Israel an honor-shame culture? Yes, ancient Israel was rooted in honor and shame, as seen throughout its family structures, legal systems, and biblical narratives.   What is the shame and honor culture in China? In Chinese culture, maintaining family honor and avoiding public shame strongly influence personal behavior and social relationships.