Contact: Krist Crisp, World Gospel Mission, 765-661-2776
MEDIA ADVISORY, March 30 /Christian Newswire/ -- The massive amount of need created by the January 12 earthquake in Haiti sparked a renewed interest in voluntourism, a word used to describe the combination of one's desire to experience a new culture while also participating in philanthropic efforts like serving those in need. But missionary-sending organization World Gospel Mission (WGM) cautions that this attitude can be harmful if extended towards missions trips.
"Most of our teams work very hard on a specific project or ministry," said Todd Eckhardt, director of Homeland Ministries at WGM. "Yes, there is the excitement of being in a new country and environment, but that's not at all the reason people go on these trips. They go to see lives changed by the power of Jesus Christ."
Eckhardt cautions that going on a missions trip should not be undertaken lightly. "When you go on a missions trip - whether you go with your church, with WGM, or another missions group - you're entering dangerous territory. You're reaching out to people in the name of Jesus in order to make Him known. The further away from that primary motivation you get, the more potential damage you could be doing both to yourself and to those whom you are serving."
World Gospel Mission has missionaries in 23 areas of the world, and sends around 90 teams a year, completing construction projects, running medical or sports clinics, praying, holding Vacation Bible Schools, and ministering alongside the local church in communities.
For more information about WGM teams or to join a WGM ministry team, visit www.wgm.org/go or contact Noritta Carter at (765) 671-7204.
About World Gospel Mission
World Gospel Mission disciples believers to become missions-active Christians. As an interdenominational missions organization, WGM partners with individuals, small groups, college groups, and churches to intentionally address the physical and spiritual needs of individuals and communities. Learn more here.
