Looking for ways to help parents and their kids grow together in their faith? Consider a family mission trip, says IBSA’s Jack Lucas. It’s not the easiest trip you’ll ever plan, the director of next generation ministries acknowledges. But the benefits to families and to the church overall outweigh the challenges—here’s why:
1. Members of the same family take a week away to serve together, minimizing distractions from home.
2. A family mission trip positions parents as the primary disciplers of their children. They’re able to live out the things they’re teaching at home, and model for their children what it looks like to live life on mission.
3. Relationships are at the center of family mission trips, which makes them ideal for Millennials and Gen Z.
4. Not only do these trips cultivate Christian community in families, but also in the whole church.
Considering a family mission trip? Start planning well in advance, Lucas advises. Make sure there will be enough work for each age group represented on the team. The easiest solution is to plan a trip that involves a variety of activities, or at least two segments that can utilize older and younger volunteers—construction and Vacation Bible School, for example.
Once you decide on a location (IBSA or your local association can assist you with this), a pre-trip site visit will help confirm details like lodging, meals, and team assignments. Contact Lucas at (217) 391-3135.