Content Resources

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.

What else might be asked of a physician, dentist, nurse or other healthcare professional serving cross-culturally that may stretch, challenge, and sometimes frustrate the committed and called servant of Christ? Being prepared for such extra tasks and determining to be flexible and joyful might just surprise the new (or old) healthcare missionary who humbly approaches the extended job description. Speaker(s): Dave MD, MA (Bioethics) Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/the-healthcare-missionary-job-description-you-want-me-to-do-what

TL;DR: Refugee crises stem from conflict, persecution, disaster, and instability—often overlapping in complex ways. By grasping the roots of displacement, missionaries can better serve those affected and discern how to help refugees in ways that are thoughtful, sustainable, and Christ-centered. The causes of refugee problems in the world are rarely simple. From armed conflict and religious persecution to economic collapse, millions are being displaced.    The Real Causes of Refugee Problems in the World The most visible refugee stories—border crossings, boat rescues, packed shelters—are often just the final scenes of a much longer crisis. Conflict, persecution, famine, failed governance, and climate disasters are all leading causes of refugee displacement globally. Today, over 100 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide. Many flee with no guarantee of safety, dignity, or return. The United Nations defines refugees as people forced to flee across borders due to conflict or persecution. But that’s only part of the story. Some are fleeing war zones, like Ukraine. Others are escaping slow violence—political oppression, famine, or rising waters that erase entire villages. Displacement is not always sudden. Often, it builds quietly over years until staying home is no longer an option.   Behind Every Crisis Are Layers of Injustice The causes of refugee crises are layered and often invisible to outsiders. Political failure in one region can ripple into economic collapse in another. A local drought can become an international famine. Ethnic targeting can silence entire communities and force them into hiding. In Eastern Europe, for example, the war in Ukraine has displaced millions. But for many families, the crisis didn’t begin with the first missile. Years of tension, instability, and economic strain had already pushed people to the edge. And yet, God had already been present, working through believers and organizations who were quietly walking with the displaced before the headlines ever came. Refugee crises are not just about geography—they’re about people who lose identity, stability, and access to healthcare, education, and hope.   How to Help Refugees without Causing Harm A natural question arises: How can you help refugees? The answer starts with humility. Not every solution is helpful. Some forms of aid—however well-intentioned—can create dependency or overlook what refugees actually want. The goal is not to “fix” displaced people, but to honor their dignity and walk with them toward healing. There are meaningful ways to help. Healthcare professionals, for example, bring skills that are urgently needed. One pharmacy student working with refugees found that the most valuable part of her time wasn’t just medicine—it was being there for the people.   Refugee Trauma Doesn’t End When Borders Are Crossed The crisis doesn’t end once a person crosses into a safer country. In fact, many refugees report the greatest emotional strain after resettlement—when the weight of loss, uncertainty, and culture shock truly sets in. That’s why refugee care isn’t just global—it’s local. Many U.S.-based churches and clinics are now involved in refugee care in the United States, offering counseling, medical help, ESL support, and spiritual community. Short-term volunteers can play a vital support role here too.   What Scripture Calls the Church to Do The Bible is clear: God sees, loves, and defends the displaced. In Deuteronomy 10:18, “He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing.” And again in Leviticus 19:34, Israel is told, “You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself…” Refugees are not strangers to the Kingdom. They are part of God’s mission. And for the Church, they are not an afterthought—they are an invitation.   You Don’t Have to Go Far to Start Helping The causes of refugee problems in the world are complex. But your first step doesn’t need to be. Whether it's advocating, serving locally, or joining a team abroad, there’s a role for anyone willing to start small and stay faithful. If you’ve been wondering how to help refugees in a way that honors both their story and God’s heart, consider starting with short-term missions. These experiences provide on-the-ground exposure to real needs while supporting long-term efforts already in place. Explore short-term mission opportunities that are designed to equip and mobilize you toward this kind of service.   Related Questions What are the main causes of the refugee crisis? Armed conflict, political persecution, human rights violations, poverty, and climate change are the leading causes. What is the biggest problem for refugees? Lack of safety, access to basic needs, and long-term legal protection are the most pressing issues. What is the biggest reason people become refugees? Most refugees flee due to violence or persecution that makes remaining in their home country impossible. What are the 5 main causes of forced migration? War, persecution, natural disasters, economic instability, and environmental degradation are the primary drivers.

There are so many options of sending agencies, that many potential missionary workers don’t know where to begin. As a result, they often get overwhelmed and paralyzed. We help make that journey manageable by teaching you what to look for to find your best-fit sending agency. Speaker(s): Josiah Harling; Steve Harling Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/finding-your-best-fit-mission-agency

TL;DR: Church planting in unreached or underserved areas is slow, intentional work that starts with service, not preaching. By integrating service and healthcare with mission, professionals can create sustainable pathways for new gospel communities to grow. Church planting is starting new gospel-centered communities where none exist, often through service, presence, and intentional discipleship. Planting a church in difficult or unreached areas takes more than passion. It requires preparation, perseverance, and a willingness to lead through service. Faith-driven professionals, including those in healthcare, can play a crucial role by meeting tangible needs that open doors for spiritual impact.   Why Church Planting Matters in Hard-to-Reach Places Church planting is more than setting up a worship service. It’s the patient work of establishing a gospel presence where none exists. In many global regions, traditional ministry models don’t fit, and the first step may be meeting physical and relational needs. Planting a church in such contexts often begins with small acts of service. This approach reflects how Jesus ministered—healing and feeding along with teaching—and why so many Christian missionaries first focus on relationships rather than programs.   How Church Planting Differs from Pastoring A church planter is not strictly a pastor and often wears many hats. Church planters step into pioneering work—evangelism, community building, leadership development, and cultural adaptation. Those called to plant often focus on outreach and starting something from nothing, rather than managing an existing congregation through pastoral care and structure. When healthcare professionals, teachers, or bi-vocational leaders join these efforts, they bring credibility and access. Meeting community needs demonstrates the gospel in action, paving the way for trust and discipleship.   Planting a Church through Service and Presence Church planting in underserved areas rarely starts with preaching. It starts with presence. Providing medical care, mentoring youth, or assisting with education can show the gospel long before words are spoken. For example, those interested in integrating healthcare and church planting find that treating physical needs can open doors for spiritual conversations. This model has become an effective strategy in regions resistant to traditional evangelism.   Foundations for Sustainable Church Planting Planting a church in hard-to-reach places requires more than a short-term vision. It involves listening to the community, raising local leaders, and laying a foundation for long-term growth. Below are essential practices:   1. Build Trust through Consistent Presence Trust develops slowly. Galatians 6:9 reminds, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” This is especially true when planting a church where planters can face resistance from the local community.   2. Equip Yourself Spiritually and Practically Church planting is spiritually demanding and logistically complex. Training through missionary schools can provide valuable tools in cross-cultural communication, leadership development, and support raising.   3. Empower Local Leaders The goal is not dependency but multiplication. Like Paul mentoring Timothy, church planters invest in raising leaders who can shepherd the community long after the planter leaves.   4. Integrate Vocation with Mission Many planters are bi-vocational, using their profession to serve and sustain themselves. Healthcare workers, teachers, and entrepreneurs can plant churches by weaving ministry into their daily work. This “life-on-life” model often plants deeper roots than a formal program.   Challenges of Church Planting in Difficult Areas Church planting in hard-to-reach places comes with real challenges. Limited resources, cultural barriers, and security risks can discourage even experienced leaders. At times, progress feels invisible. Yet this is often the hidden strength of planting a church: it forces dependence on God, patience, and deep relationships. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Church planting is not a sprint but a steady obedience over time.   An Invitation to Begin the Journey You don’t need to be a professional pastor to start planting a church. You need a calling, preparation, and the humility to start small. Healthcare professionals and mission workers already have unique access to communities and needs that can spark gospel growth. For those sensing a pull toward long-term impact, exploring long-term mission opportunities can help with discerning your next step. Small beginnings—listening, serving, building trust—can lead to communities of faith that last for generations.   Related Questions   What is the meaning of church planting? Starting a new gospel-centered community where none currently exists.   What is the process of church planting? It begins with prayer, presence, relationship-building, and leadership development before launching public gatherings.   What does the Bible say about church planting? Scripture models church planting through the apostles, especially Paul, who planted churches and raised local leaders (Acts 14:23).   What are the disadvantages of church planting? Challenges include limited resources, cultural barriers, high emotional cost, and the risk of burnout without support.

Short-term missions. Whether you have participate in many or are just considering finding your first one, short-term mission trips do a lot of good around the world. We will be discussing five principles to ensure that our short-term mission efforts have a long-term and sustainable impact on those with whom we serve. Speaker(s): Jaime Saint Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/five-principles-for-long-term-sustaining-impact-on-short-term-trip