Youth Group Mission Ship

The High School Youth at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd are planning a Mission Trip at a yet-to-be-determined time in late 2010 to early 2011.  We will travel via cruise ship to different island nations.  Our plans are described below in what I like to call PAQ format (predictably asked questions).

Why a cruise?

If you have ever been on a cruise, you know they are a good value!  Your travel, lodging and food are all included for much less than it might cost if you were planning them separately.  We are hoping we can pay for this trip with $100 per day, or less.  Yes, a cruise initially sounds a little self-indulgent, but it makes economic sense!

How can you call it a mission if you are on a boat?  Who will you help?

Depending on our destination ports, we can actually help lots of people.  The plan is to contact a church, orphanage or mission in or near the port cities and pre-arrange a meeting on the day of embarkation.  The youth will either deliver donations or do a few hours of volunteer service for those in need.

How on earth will you transport goods for donations on a cruise ship?

Cruise ships allow up to 7 pieces of baggage per passenger!  It would be very simple to pack 2 personal bags for the week and fill the remainder with toys, tools, clothing, shoes, etc.

How will this benefit our youth?

Most of our kids have never experienced true cultural immersion.  Diversity speeches at schools just don’t quite cover the truth of international extremes. 

Best case scenario is that the youth would receive a broadened world view, grow a servant’s heart for God’s people and develop empathy for the needs of others.

Worst case scenario is that it would increase the entitlement attitude that our culture nurtures and a youth would decide that he or she did not wish to ever experience, first hand, the type of poverty to which we, as Americans, are not exposed.  I predict the former will occur.

Which countries might you visit?

These are the possibilities chosen from available itineraries: Jamaica, Haiti, Mexico, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Belize, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Dominican Republic or Puerto Rico.

How will you prepare for a trip like this?

We will be in prayer for the success and safety of this endeavor.  We also covet the prayers of our church.  We will discuss ways to prepare the hearts of our young servants.  We will look to God’s word for guidance.

We will conduct a few events during the upcoming year to raise travel funds.  These may vary from car washes to bake sales and anything else we can think to do.  Some of the youth will be available for work on an individual basis.  If you’d like to hire a teen for yard work, babysitting, painting, or cleaning, contact the church office.  We will connect you with a capable teen.  If you have any ideas, please tell us! 

I’d like to add a side note to the fundraising issue.  Be assured that you will not see our youth standing at intersections with buckets and signs.  They are capable and willing to work for the funds that they receive. If you feel led to give large bags of cash to your favorite teen, don’t let us discourage you.  Your support speaks volumes to the kids about how they are valued and we realize there are many of you who feel blessed through giving.  Simply know that we will not solicit our congregation in that way.

What are the risks?

We are on a ship.  We are in the ocean.  We are on international soil.  We are dealing with teens who currently do not have fully developed frontal lobe connections.

Can I go too?

That would be a resounding YES!  We will need some additional chaperones. Just book a cabin and you’re in!  Bear in mind as an accompanying adult, you will be given serious responsibilities and will be asked to help with youth communication.  You must also pass the chaperone test.

What does a youth need for this trip?

Most importantly, they need a passport.  If they are under 18, they need a signed permission slip/waiver and an in loco parentis letter.  Other things simply include personal items and money.

If you are a parent of an LCGS high school student, we would like for you to consider giving your permission and support to your child. 
 

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:17