"Lord, now where in the world do you want me to go?" Maybe this was your response when the Lord put it on your heart to join Buckner overseas. Here are answers to questions that you may have as you consider this ministry opportunity.

What will I do?
You will have the opportunity to be involved with Vacation Bible School, Children’s Camp, and/or Youth Camps...ministering to children in all age groups.

Some trips combine ministry with construction projects or handing out humanitarian aid (ex. the Shoes for Orphan Souls trip). VBS and Children’s Camp include leading either Bible story time, craft time, recreation, memory verse time, and song time… along with a thousand different ways to express God’s love. Youth Camp is much like it is here in America.
You will have the time of your life. Relationship building is one of the most strategic opportunities we have with these children who, for the most part, are very limited in the number of relationships they have outside the orphanage walls. Though we are with the children/youth for just a week, bonds will form quickly. They are so open to Christ’s love in you!

Who will be in charge of the team?
From the time you leave from the airport to the time you return, you will be under the supervision of Buckner Orphan Care International.

Will I be safe?
We take every precaution to ensure the safest trip possible. We consult travel advisories, work closely with our overseas staff, train the trip participants to be cautious and we pray continuously.

How can I make a valuable contribution?
Your role will be a valuable part of our larger goal… to help the orphans, their leaders and the system of care they are currently under. We have a wonderful opportunity to care for "the least of these" on a short-term trip that allows long-term ministry to continue all year for the orphan children and youth.

How will I be prepared for the trip?
During the months preceding the trip, it is our hope you will be in prayer concerning the mission trip, praying for the children, the leaders and your teammates. At the trip orientation meeting, you will learn about the culture, language, schedules, food, ministry and even more details about the country you will be visiting.

How will I be able to communicate when I don’t speak the language?
It is amazing what can be communicated without language. In addition, we provide an incredible team of translators during the trip.

Where will I stay?
It depends on what type of mission trip you are on. You could stay at the campsite, in a home or in a hotel.

How can I best prepare for this trip?
There are many practical ways to prepare. As preparatory materials are given to you, either at the trip orientation meetings or through the mail, be sure you read through material or take the necessary steps to make your trip the best possible experience for you and your team. We also encourage you to study the language. Explore the country you will visit on the Internet and in travel books. But the most important and significant way to prepare for this mission trip is to pray.