http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/ Why Mission Trips? Our motivation is not just to create fun trips for people to experience different parts of the world or cultures. These experiences are packed with potential to change lives and help us to live “missionally” not only on the trip, but when we return home. Our driving focus is to fulfill the principles set out in Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” We have been given an unimaginable power source and we are intent on glorifying God, and doing great things with that power! While each trip has specific goals unique to each location they all have one main mission – to glorify God! We want His glory to be known, and for the people we reach and serve to experience the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ. In the process we will be raising up short-term mission trip leaders for future mission endeavors, and expanding the broader Kingdom of God. Through prayer, study, equipping, and encouraging one another… these trips will not only change those we visit, but we will never be the same. To view short-term mission trip blogposts from the past, visit the "Archive by Month" section on the right side of this page.  Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:58:53 GMT en-us Copyright 2012 Village Bible Church || Aurora | Indian Creek | Sugar Grove | IL http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/abiding-in-christ/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/abiding-in-christ/ Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:58:52 GMT I will now be better prepared to speak at school to my unbelieving friends and to more people than I was used to speaking in front of before I came. My own message (that I preached here from John 15) has spoken tome. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/russia-day-4/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/russia-day-4/ Fri, 29 Oct 2010 04:47:10 GMT The morning sessions for Thursday have already concluded. The week is more than half way over, but the time has gone by quickly and the relationships we've built have been a great encouragement. The men in our training module have ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/russia-day-2/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/russia-day-2/ Wed, 27 Oct 2010 03:05:03 GMT The second day of teaching brought new students to our class. We began with 10, and on this second day of classes we added 3 more to the mix. In addition, the pastor was encouraged that even though many of the men have some difficult things ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/headin-to-yaroslavl/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/headin-to-yaroslavl/ Tue, 26 Oct 2010 03:05:03 GMT Well, we're on the train to Yaroslavl, a 5 hour train ride in a slow commuter train through the Russian countryside. Everything about the trip screams, "You're not in America anymore!" From the different look of the people to the new ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/children-waiting-on-sponsors-you-can-make-a-huge-difference-in-their-life/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/children-waiting-on-sponsors-you-can-make-a-huge-difference-in-their-life/ Tue, 10 Aug 2010 15:20:15 GMT One of the things our team walks away thinking about is how we spend our own money. We also find ourselves questioning where we could reduce spending on ourselves and redirect those funds to where they can be more impacting. For example, did you know that in Uganda alone, there are more than 800,000 children living without parents or guardians?!? YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. For less than $2 a day we can literally save the life of an orphan child in Uganda. In a place where there is no government welfare system, where tens of thousands of children live in child-headed families, where children do hard, menial labor just to eat one meal a day, you can give a child hope. We’re hoping to find sponsors for each of the 60 children who are currently waiting. Are you’re interested in helping one of these children? http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/lisa--linda-continue-to-serve-in-uganda/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/lisa--linda-continue-to-serve-in-uganda/ Tue, 20 Jul 2010 15:23:22 GMT Linda and I stayed in a hostel on the outskirts of Kampala for a few days last week. We enjoyed hot showers sometimes and good food. While Matt and Crystal went to a doctor's appointment, we took Asher & Steven into the little dipping pool ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/goodbye-uganda-we-love-you/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/goodbye-uganda-we-love-you/ Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:41:16 GMT We have reached the final day of our time in Uganda. I am so thankful that God brought this ministry together because it’s impact has been great and numerous... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/look-out-for-that-monkey--soybeans-for-uganda/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/look-out-for-that-monkey--soybeans-for-uganda/ Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:47:55 GMT Today as we headed out of the country we had the opportunity to visit a Juna Amagara site in Kamwengye. In addition to caring for orphans, this site has also begun a farming initiative that I think many of you would be interested in... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/day-of-rest-with-the-animals/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/day-of-rest-with-the-animals/ Tue, 13 Jul 2010 04:35:32 GMT Today was a day of rest. Granted, our math is not so great as we've been here for 13 days and are just now taking a day of rest, but I think it's safe to say that this one could easily qualify for two days of rest - after all, it would probably take 10 trips to the zoo to see all of the animals that we saw today. Elephants. Water Buffalo. Eagles and lots of other interesting birds. Antelope. Nile crocodiles (which by the way are among the largest in the world and can live up to 100 years old). Hippos. And many other animals. Whle we did not have the opportunity to see lions, we did see gorillas, red tail monkeys and other types of monkeys swinging through the jungle... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe-in-uganda/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe-in-uganda/ Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:39:53 GMT Dear Friends & Family As you rise on Monday morning you will undoubtedly hear that last night two terrorist bombs went off in Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Current word is that approximately 70 people were killed as a result. Our ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/public-school-evangelism--double-blessing/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/public-school-evangelism--double-blessing/ Mon, 12 Jul 2010 11:08:16 GMT Over the past few days, we have had visited 8 public schools (5 elementary schools and 3 high schools) and have shared the gospel to probably 3,000 children. At first I was more than skeptical... "How will we do that?" I thought... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/discipleship-of-the-abide-men/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/discipleship-of-the-abide-men/ Sun, 11 Jul 2010 23:00:50 GMT Well another long night, but totally worth it. I had the opportunity to go camping with Matt and the Abide guys. We had a few four man tents and had four to five guys in one tent. I was lucky enough to have five. So I slept shoulder to shoulder, on ground that has not been rained on in months. It was rock hard... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kehn-family-update/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kehn-family-update/ Sat, 10 Jul 2010 15:21:37 GMT Click here to view a full-screen version of this ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/lake-bunyonyi/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/lake-bunyonyi/ Fri, 09 Jul 2010 21:34:35 GMT Today we left the orphanage at Kishanje and headed to Lake Bunyonyi (Place of many birds) traveling by open truck, foot, and boat. The drive and walk down the hillside was breath taking.as was the view of the lake tucked between the hills... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/let-all-creation-sing/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/let-all-creation-sing/ Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:48:52 GMT The highlight of the day was that Kaity and I each chose a child to sponsor. It was children from the primary school that we had bonded with throughout the week. The girl I had chosen is named Costa. Harriet, who is the housekeeper but also sort of what we would consider a caseworker, suggested that we go to see where the children live and meet their guardians. They took the children out of school a little early so we could leave in a truck down the mountain. Costa was so excited, because she had never had a ride in a vehicle before in her life. The highlight of the day was that Kaity and I each chose a child to sponsor. It was children from the primary school that we had bonded with throughout the week. The girl I had chosen is named Costa. Harriet, who is the housekeeper but also sort of what we would consider a caseworker, suggested that we go to see where the children live and meet their guardians. They took the children out of school a little early so we could leave in a truck down the mountain. Costa was so excited, because she had never had a ride in a vehicle before in her life... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/serving-orphans/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/serving-orphans/ Wed, 07 Jul 2010 21:46:04 GMT Click here for a full-screen version of this slideshow. July 7: Tim, Ralph & Lisa: Mbarars;   Rest of team in Kishanje Scott Capp, here in Sugar Grove, was able to use Skype to get through to Matt Kehn in Mbarara today, ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/beautiful-people--new-friends/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/beautiful-people--new-friends/ Tue, 06 Jul 2010 21:28:46 GMT Click here to view a full-scren version of this slideshow. July 6: ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/gods-strength/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/gods-strength/ Mon, 05 Jul 2010 21:15:22 GMT This is the first time we have had any kind of internet in about a week - actually, it's the first time in a week that we've had much in the way of running water, a flush toilet, a real shower with warm water or consistent electricity! Needless to say, there was no way to update this blog from Kishanje! Tonight, we were able to post three days worth of blogs and photos. If you have an interest in this ministry, please check out our blog and pray for us during the rest of our journey. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/worship-kishanje-style/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/worship-kishanje-style/ Sun, 04 Jul 2010 20:11:23 GMT The trip so far has been completely amazing! I can’t even believe that I am here yet, my mind hasn’t quite wrapped itself around that fact yet, but I am enjoying every minute of it!... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/welcome-muzungus/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/welcome-muzungus/ Sat, 03 Jul 2010 21:11:27 GMT Click Here to view a full screen version of this slideshow. July 3: Travel from Mbarara to Kashanje We are now in Kashanje at Rev. Ben’s house just down the road from the Juna Amagara Kashanje Learning Advancement Center ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/lisa-serves-the-kehn-family/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/lisa-serves-the-kehn-family/ Sat, 03 Jul 2010 21:10:33 GMT Click here for a full-screen version of the slideshow. July 3: Mbarara (Lisa) Back in December when I first talked with Matt & Crystal about the possibility of me coming to visit, I didn't know we would have a team together. So, ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/meeting-a-long-time-friend/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/meeting-a-long-time-friend/ Fri, 02 Jul 2010 21:12:55 GMT July 2: Kampala to Mbarara Lord, what an adventure you have me on! The rooster woke me up this morning and as it still sounds I stand in awe of you. The simple life that is all around me helps to give me a glimps into others’ lives ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/hayley-trips-over-equator-tim-gets-eaten-by-a-hyena/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/hayley-trips-over-equator-tim-gets-eaten-by-a-hyena/ Fri, 02 Jul 2010 21:09:14 GMT It's true, Hayley Roberts did manage to trip over the equator today... So no longer can anyone say that hasn't been done. Tim Calhoun was not, however, really eaten by a hyena - that rumor was the result of a bad telephone connection back home... After 23 hours of travel, we arrived safely in Uganda.... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/welcome-to-uganda/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/welcome-to-uganda/ Thu, 01 Jul 2010 21:08:16 GMT After 23 hours of travel, we arrived safely in Uganda. It was such a surreal experience to actually be on the ground walking in Africa. By the time we landed and made it through customs it was about 10 pm, Uganda time. We were warmly welcomed by a team from the Juna Amagara ministry that we are serving alongside - the founder of the ministry, Rev. Ben, and several others from the ministry met us at the airport and drove us to the hotel where we spent the first night. Nothing quite like the Spring Hill Suites back home - but it was nice and comfortable - and provided a much needed bed after being awake for over 30 hours straight. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/here-we-go-first-stop-amsterdam/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/here-we-go-first-stop-amsterdam/ Wed, 30 Jun 2010 21:06:33 GMT   June 30: Sugar Grove to Amsterdam The Uganda team took off from Village Bible Church Wednesday afternoon.  Check-in at the airport went smoothly; all their bags went through without any problems.  The last communication from ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/thanks-from-alaska/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/thanks-from-alaska/ Fri, 25 Jun 2010 21:04:58 GMT Hello! Thank you all for your prayer thus far! We know that God is at work in the lives of  the kids here at camp and in the lives of the workers as well. Each day, kids have fun times with their friends on the playground, at the dock, and ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/surprises-and-bunk-falls/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/surprises-and-bunk-falls/ Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:37:39 GMT Hello! Much has happened since the last update! We learned that 12 of the original 48 campers who signed up were not able to make it and canceled last minute. Even if they had come, this number would have still been lower than in ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-2010/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-2010/ Mon, 21 Jun 2010 18:07:34 GMT Hello! The beginning of our journey to Alaska went quite smoothly. Most of us were a little nervous about getting through security, (and for some it was the main concern of the whole trip!) but even though we had two expired ID's and too much ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/all-the-way-to-alaska/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/all-the-way-to-alaska/ Sun, 20 Jun 2010 06:14:56 GMT   The Alaska team met at VBC at 9:00 Friday morning and prayed with a group of family and friends who sent them off. They had a long day of traveling, but made it safely to Anchorage. They spent the first night with host ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/more-of-beijing/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/more-of-beijing/ Sun, 13 Jun 2010 23:17:57 GMT ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/back-in-beijing/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/back-in-beijing/ Sat, 12 Jun 2010 16:33:35 GMT We're all safely back in Beijing.  Tomorrow we're off to see the Great Wall! Here we are in a tour bus with our guide Carla. We even got to see some of the local culture. ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/last-video-with-the-orphans/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/last-video-with-the-orphans/ Sat, 12 Jun 2010 16:19:18 GMT ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/friday-afternoon/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/friday-afternoon/ Sat, 12 Jun 2010 05:30:28 GMT We threw a party in honor of the nannies on our last afternoon at the orphanage. We had brought them gifts from America, ranging from neck-ties for the director to bath and body lotions for the nannies, and more... They were such ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/last-day-at-the-orphanage/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/last-day-at-the-orphanage/ Fri, 11 Jun 2010 05:22:49 GMT Yesterday was our last day at the orphanage, and it started off with a special morning session. For the first time all week, the nannies allowed us to take the babies out into the courtyard. It was the first sunny day all week, and ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/in-for-a-ride/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/in-for-a-ride/ Fri, 11 Jun 2010 04:59:19 GMT Traffic in China is absolutely wild. There are traffic lights, and even police officers in the street, but the custom is to pay much more attention to the flow of traffic than to any of these modern means of control. It seems that it ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/streets-of-heng-feng/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/streets-of-heng-feng/ Fri, 11 Jun 2010 04:42:20 GMT Every night after dinner we ventured out into the city streets of Heng Feng to try to meet people. We definitely stuck out, and sometimes attracted very large crowds. Thankfully, almost every night we found someone who knew enough English ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/friday-morning/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/friday-morning/ Fri, 11 Jun 2010 04:34:10 GMT It's hard to believe that this is our last day at the orphanage. We have our regular sessions with the babies in the morning, and then in the afternoon we will be throwing a party in honor of the nannies. We have all brought ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/ping-pong-match/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/ping-pong-match/ Thu, 10 Jun 2010 03:38:44 GMT Our chinese hosts invited us to a ping pong match. Their star player was a retired doctor who now volunteers her time at the orphanage. This video shows Topaz Williams taking her on.   I don't know... it was pretty close, but I ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mealtime/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mealtime/ Thu, 10 Jun 2010 03:33:46 GMT The food here in China has been very good. They have been taking very good care of us. Most restaurants we eat at have a very large lazy susan in the middle where the food is rotated throughout the course of the meal. Everyone takes ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/thursday-in-china/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/thursday-in-china/ Thu, 10 Jun 2010 03:33:21 GMT We have been making many friends in addition to caring for the babies. Aeveral of the people who work for the orphanage have been so kind to us. On Tuesday night we even had two families come to our hotel and join us for our evening ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/wednesday-in-china/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/wednesday-in-china/ Wed, 09 Jun 2010 23:11:26 GMT ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/tuesday-afternoon/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/tuesday-afternoon/ Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:15:52 GMT From team co-leader Becki Carlson: It hasn't taken long for us to settle into a nice routine and to become attached to these precious babies we are caring for. It was so fun today, to see the babies laughing and giggling, and ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/tuesday-in-china/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/tuesday-in-china/ Tue, 08 Jun 2010 15:15:26 GMT Besides our ministry at the orphanage itself, we are able to go out into the city streets and try to meet people twice per day. After lunch, and after dinner we have set time in our schedule to walk around. People are very ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/beautiful-1st-day-at-the-orphanage/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/beautiful-1st-day-at-the-orphanage/ Mon, 07 Jun 2010 14:26:50 GMT   The orphanage was situated in a quiet area. The orphanage itself is in a pristine place where the orphans were well cared for. We were welcomed with an incredible hospitality. It is obvious that we are wanted and ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/beijing-to-heng-feng/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/beijing-to-heng-feng/ Sun, 06 Jun 2010 15:13:23 GMT We arrived in Beijing on Saturday night after 11 pm, and didn't get settled into our rooms until 1 am. We were met in the airport by Qiao (pronounced Chow), and Carla... (whose Chinese name is really Yam). Team members had some prayer time up ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe--sound/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe--sound/ Sat, 05 Jun 2010 19:59:33 GMT It is 11 pm here ... We are now off to find a hotel for a few hours sleep.  We have one more flight in the early morning (we have to be back at the airport around 5:30 am) in-country flight to Nanjing, and then a 3.5 hour bus ride to the ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/get-aquainted-with-china/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/get-aquainted-with-china/ Sat, 05 Jun 2010 04:27:35 GMT   Here is some fish that we had, served with head and tail... and Qiao (pronouned Chow), who is our guide and translator, along with Becki our team co-leader. Becki was roomates with Kate Duff at Wheaton College, she lives in ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/china-team-from-the-minnesota/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/china-team-from-the-minnesota/ Fri, 04 Jun 2010 04:29:15 GMT We are now boarding the plane in Minnesota to fly to Tokyo, Japan where we’ll have a short lay over before we head to China. I am thinking about Hosea 6:6 which says, “I desire mercy and not sacrifice” and I think this is ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/china-2010/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/china-2010/ Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:43:53 GMT June 4 - 14 From June 4-14, a team of 10 people will be serving at a government run orphanage in Hengfeng, China - Social Welfare Institute (SWI) - striving to carry out our James 1:27 biblical mandate to "visit orphans" in their distress. We ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/uganda-2010/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/uganda-2010/ Tue, 01 Jun 2010 03:35:44 GMT   July 1 - 15  From July 1-15, we will be serving orphans in southwest Uganda. In sub‑Saharan Africa alone there are over 10 million children who have lost both of their parents – most who have died because of the AIDS ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-2010/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-2010/ Tue, 01 Jun 2010 03:30:58 GMT   June 18 - 29   From June 18-29, we will be serving the families of the Bristol Bay region of Alaska through the youth camp ministry of Tanalian Bible Camp, in Port Alsworth. This camp is operated by our missionaries, James & ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/welcome-home/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/welcome-home/ Sun, 22 Nov 2009 02:04:51 GMT I'm on the ground in Chicago two hours ahead of schedule. It feels great to be back home and with my family. I look forward to seeing you all soon! http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/heading-home/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/heading-home/ Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:04:42 GMT I'm now heading back to the captial city of Mozambique and will be getting on my flight tomorrow morning arriving back to O'Hare late Saturday morning. See you all soon! http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/teaching-in-machaze/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/teaching-in-machaze/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 02:04:46 GMT We're spending a few days teaching in Machaze. Some pictures and videos are attached. Check out the giant ant hills! http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/teaching-chickens-eating-goats-taming-softball-sized-spiders/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/teaching-chickens-eating-goats-taming-softball-sized-spiders/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 02:04:38 GMT It is very interesting teaching with chickens clucking all around you... The church here has no walls it is just a big room with a big thatched roof with wooden beams holding it up... Tonight there is a beautiful black sky with all the star of the southern hemisphere. Stars I have never seen in my life. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe-in-machaze/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe-in-machaze/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 02:04:24 GMT I'm safe in the rural village of Machaze but won't have cell coverage for a few days. I'll talk to you soon. Thanks for your ongoing prayers! Read the updates from the past few days - go to www.villagebible.org/mozambique... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/praying-for-the-aids-crisis-in-africa/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/praying-for-the-aids-crisis-in-africa/ Sun, 15 Nov 2009 02:04:29 GMT In one of these pictures, you'll see Pastor Titus and his grandson, "Tito". Pastor Titus' lost his daughter and son-in-law to AIDS due to the son-in-law's unfaithfulness. Titus and his wife now raise their namesake grandson "Tito" after the untimely death of his parents. The African AIDS crisis has touched this local church. We must remember them in prayer... And find ways to engage this epidemic with the truth and love of Jesus. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/go-into-all-the-world-and-disciple-the-nations-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/go-into-all-the-world-and-disciple-the-nations-/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 02:04:32 GMT Go into all the world and disciple the nations – Matthew 28:18. What an exciting charge has been given to us, the Church who have been redeemed from utter darkness and hopelessness to live for such a noble task as the glory of God. I ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/final-day-teaching-in-tete/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/final-day-teaching-in-tete/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 02:04:19 GMT We spent the day teaching, it was our final day of our ZEBS class in Tete and there was a big storm that blew in just as we finished teaching our final class. It was a good thing it came in after our class because... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/tete-night/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/tete-night/ Tue, 10 Nov 2009 02:03:05 GMT ...The real trick is when we needed double translation. Our translator was delayed by traffic at the Tete Bridge and so we ended up having our primary translator, who does not know the local dialect, translate into Protégées and then... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/landrover-offroading/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/landrover-offroading/ Tue, 10 Nov 2009 02:03:00 GMT ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/goodbye-maputo/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/goodbye-maputo/ Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:02:55 GMT Goodbye Maputo http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/the-outpost/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/the-outpost/ Sat, 07 Nov 2009 02:02:50 GMT It’s great to be here on the edge of a great mission field. I call it “The Outpost” because I think of the words of Richard, he says that on some of these days when things get hard, his wife reminds him that... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/vbc-mozambique-mission-trip-november-6/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/vbc-mozambique-mission-trip-november-6/ Fri, 06 Nov 2009 02:02:42 GMT It’s very exciting what God’s doing here in Mozambique and I’m really happy to be able to stay in touch with you guys who are praying for me back home. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/in-transit-live-from-s-africa/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/in-transit-live-from-s-africa/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:02:39 GMT Scott Capp is spending two weeks in Mozambique, Africa, training pastors and leaders of the AmaZioni people group. Pray for his efforts and follow his journey... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mozambique-vision-trip/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mozambique-vision-trip/ Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:02:34 GMT Scott Capp will be spending the next two weeks in Mozambique, Africa, where he will be training pastors and leaders of the AmaZioni people group. Pray for his efforts and follow his journey... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-recap/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-recap/ Sun, 18 Oct 2009 02:04:15 GMT Greetings to all, I arrived safely home three weeks ago and have been working on a report to share with you. It was a wonderful experience to travel to Kyrgyzstan and to work with the city and the local Christian Church on the ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan--day-5-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan--day-5-/ Thu, 15 Oct 2009 02:02:25 GMT Today we had one of the best dedications we have ever had! After a week of building the playground and developing relationships with the local leaders, we were done and ready to give the children their gift! It was a very lively ceremony filled ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan--day-4/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan--day-4/ Wed, 14 Oct 2009 02:02:18 GMT Today we had a great day! Since this is such a large playground, we have had to rely on a lot of help from city workers and local people just passing by. We have developed some great relationships with these people and have had some fun along ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-day-3/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-day-3/ Tue, 13 Oct 2009 02:02:14 GMT On Sunday we attended a small, local Russian church pastored by one of our translators. It was "Harvest Day" so church was outside in the sun. A big part of the program was centered around the children! It was perfect for us. They had some ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-day-2/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-day-2/ Mon, 12 Oct 2009 02:02:11 GMT Today we started working early and worked late into the day. We got a lot accomplished in one day. We constructed the little kids unit and one of the large swing sets and poured concrete for them. While we were building, we saw exactly how ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-day-1/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/kyrgyzstan-day-1/ Fri, 09 Oct 2009 02:01:14 GMT After 48 hours of travelling, our team of 11 is finally in Kara Balta, Kyrgyzstan! It was an exhausting trip to get to this small city in a country that is far away! Once we arrived we headed to the playground site to see how it looked after all ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mission-trip-dave-mogle-to-kyrgyzstan-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mission-trip-dave-mogle-to-kyrgyzstan-/ Tue, 06 Oct 2009 01:59:20 GMT Dave Mogle will be serving on a short term missions team in Kyrgyzstan for these next two weeks (10/7-10/18). He will be part of a team of 11 men participating with Kids Around the World, a Christian Organization that ministers to kids and their families by constructing playgrounds, sharing Christ, and training local Christians in the use of resources that teach Bible lessons to children. He will be serving in Kara-Balta... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/-swaziland-mission-trip-2009-bridget-buenz/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/-swaziland-mission-trip-2009-bridget-buenz/ Sat, 29 Aug 2009 01:59:15 GMT This past month in Africa has been an amazing month. When we arrived we did clinics in the rural parts of Swaziland every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. It was an amazing opportunity to practically show the love of Christ to the people of Swaziland.... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/hes-the-god-of-the-city/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/hes-the-god-of-the-city/ Sun, 26 Jul 2009 01:59:11 GMT We had a great week serving God and being used by Him to reach children in the heart of Detroit. What a joy it was to see the transforming power and hope of Jesus Christ vitally at work. The above slideshow is a como of our whole week. Thanks to all who prayed for us during this ministry. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/jumping-in/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/jumping-in/ Wed, 22 Jul 2009 01:59:05 GMT Our students jumped right in to loving the kids in our first day of day camp at Central Detroit Christian. We also started out day camp with a puppet show and songs and at the end of the day canvassed the neighborhood around us ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/new-friends-worship-and-lunch-detroit-style/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/new-friends-worship-and-lunch-detroit-style/ Tue, 21 Jul 2009 01:58:58 GMT To view a full screen version of this slideshow, click here. We picked up the luggage from Faith Bible Church in Farmington Hills, the student ministry of 8 students and 3 leaders we are teaming up with. Then we worshipped at Tony ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-or-bust/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-or-bust/ Mon, 20 Jul 2009 01:58:54 GMT  To view a full screen version of this slideshow, click here. We were off to a late start, and we were caught in heavy traffic once we arrived in Indiana, so we didn't make it to a park in Trenton, MI for our solo with Jesus ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-mission-trip/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-mission-trip/ Sat, 18 Jul 2009 01:56:34 GMT Would you like to be a part of the stories of what God is doing around the During the week of July 18, our Refuge group (senior high students) will return to Detroit to be with the kids they became friends with two years ago. In partnership with Central Detroit Christian Community Development Corporation, this group will conduct a week of Vacation Bible School during the mornings, they’ll be doing work around CDC host churches in the afternoons, and they’ll spend their evenings worshiping, sharing, praying for the neighborhood, and spending time at neighborhood block parties. How This Trip Can Change Your Life: Success in ministry cannot be measured by numbers of people or dollar signs. Stories of what God does in people and through people represent the success that only He can produce. What God has done in the past on this annual trip can be expressed through the memories that emerge from a trip that, while not easy, is eternally rewarding. Those who take the greatest steps of faith for God will experience rewards accordingly. Don’t miss out on this chance to surrender to God and allow Him to create stories! You can pick up an application from the Welcome Center! (Due May 1). g http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/hello-from-swaziland/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/hello-from-swaziland/ Fri, 17 Jul 2009 01:58:49 GMT Hello from Swaziland! It has now been almost 2 weeks since we left the U.S. and we are doing well. We have been so blessed and feel incredibly welcomed by the Vanderwal family and the Swazi people. We have been to 3 mobile clinics so far and ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-how-big-is-our-god/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-how-big-is-our-god/ Sat, 27 Jun 2009 01:57:10 GMT This week has truly been about learning about how big our God is! We have seen him work in tremendous ways.... Two campers have professed to have accepted the offer - Kylee and Riley... Today in chapel we were interrupted by a moose... Wonderful to see the campers hide God's Word in their hearts... Read more - click below... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-were-here/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-were-here/ Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:57:02 GMT We've finally made it and are enjoying camp! After the long process of getting out to camp we know that God has something great in store for us. We've already seen that through time with our campers and with the other staff... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-ivan-from-the-ukraine/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-ivan-from-the-ukraine/ Mon, 22 Jun 2009 01:57:04 GMT On our layover in Salt Lake City on Saturday we met a boy names Ivan... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-june-19-29/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-june-19-29/ Mon, 22 Jun 2009 01:56:19 GMT Are you looking for a way for the Lord to stretch your faith and use you in ways you never thought possible? Consider using your gifts this summer on an adult short-term mission trip to Port Alsworth, Alaska, to help our missionaries James and ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-wrap-up/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-wrap-up/ Sun, 21 Jun 2009 01:58:40 GMT This mission trip experience is one the of most real life type "missions experiences" our junior high students have ever took part in. Our students were participants in the Salvation Army's green camp each day. The reason why it is called "green ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-impact-on-a-student/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-impact-on-a-student/ Sat, 20 Jun 2009 01:58:36 GMT As I went on this mission trip, I will honestly say that I was scared out of my mind before going. The night before, I was crying and was nervous to go, but knew I had to because this is what God was calling me to do. I was scared, knowing the ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-it-had-to-end-at-some-point-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-it-had-to-end-at-some-point-/ Sat, 20 Jun 2009 01:58:29 GMT To view a full screen version of this slideshow, click here. It had to end at some point. I suppose it is the logical flow of things. The things is, we really think our week on the South Side of Chicago--although it ended--was ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-tuesday/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-tuesday/ Thu, 18 Jun 2009 01:56:54 GMT We as a team have been impressed with the staff of Te Salvation Army! They are Spirit-filled men and women who love the Lord and want their community to come to know Him. We were very adamant about challenging our students to pray for and have at least one spiritual conversation with their new friends. It was incredible to see how much they had connected with the kids here and by this second day they were buddies with them... Our students are stepping out of their comfort zones... Click "CONTINUE READING" below. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-monday/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip-monday/ Wed, 17 Jun 2009 01:56:48 GMT The gang bosses are sitting out in the driveway playing dominoes... There is no doubt that the Lord orchestrated all of this, because seriously, this is just not normal... We have never been in such an incredible ministry partnership... Pray for our students that God would get a hold of their hearts to really have a burden for the souls of those around them. Pray as well for the kids and the community in which we are serving... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/chicago-mission-trip/ Tue, 16 Jun 2009 01:56:28 GMT During the week of June 15, our Aliens Student Ministry (junior high) will head to Chicago for their summer mission trip. Our goal is to impact the community through joint service for Jesus Christ. Throughout the week, in the mornings we’ll be partnering with the Salvation Army in what they call Green Camp, at a local public school. In the afternoons we’ll be assisting in their Sports Camp, as well as doing some community service projects such as cleaning a backyard or painting someone’s house. In the evenings we’ll focus more on spiritual growth within our team and on community awareness, taking a prayer drive through the community. http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mission-trip-2009-update/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mission-trip-2009-update/ Sat, 02 May 2009 01:56:43 GMT "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us." -2 Corinthians 5:20 It is exciting to watch our church family get involved in practical ministry and outreaches of various sorts outside the walls of our ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mexico-mission-trip-july-2-13/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/mexico-mission-trip-july-2-13/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 01:56:22 GMT We'll be working with a church called Iglesia G316 in Mexico City and with La Quemada Camp in Guanajato, 5 hours northwest of Mexico City. We're striving to develop a long-term partnership with Iglesia G316 and the work they are doing to reach ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-mission-trip/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-mission-trip/ Sun, 03 Aug 2008 01:55:21 GMT During the week of July 26, a group of 21 senior high students and young adults returned to Detroit to be with the kids they became friends with two years ago. In partnership with Central Detroit Christian Community Development Corporation, ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-mission-trip/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/detroit-mission-trip/ Sun, 03 Aug 2008 01:33:49 GMT During the week of July 26, a group of 21 senior high students and young adults returned to Detroit to be with the kids they became friends with two years ago. In partnership with Central Detroit Christian Community Development Corporation, ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/jumping-into-the-jungle-missions-style/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/jumping-into-the-jungle-missions-style/ Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:35:34 GMT From July 5-13, a team from our Refuge group (Sr. High) went to the deep-woods of North Carolina for "Jungle Jump-Off", where they experienced a week long simulation of missionary life in a 'remote village'. The team united as they "skywalked" ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/aliens-mission-trip/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/aliens-mission-trip/ Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:37:03 GMT June 16-17:         Our junior high students served on a short term mission trip in the Aurora and Chicago areas. The purpose of this experience was to gain exposure and a heart for missions locally. On Monday, ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/home-safe-and-sound/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/home-safe-and-sound/ Wed, 18 Jun 2008 01:36:25 GMT 6/23: We are so grateful to God for his providence over our lives, and the safety he afforded over our travels. Accross nearly 8,000 miles we experienced his mercy and had our awe of his creation increased exponentially. We are all back to our ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/heading-home-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/heading-home-/ Tue, 17 Jun 2008 01:55:15 GMT A Little Fun... The final night of camp there was a special banquet for the kids.  The camp counselors all decided it would be cute to dress up at geeks... for effect.  Macho Men... Final Awards & Skit Night... Each team ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/the-rocks-will-cry-out-and-crown-him-the-king-of-kings/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/the-rocks-will-cry-out-and-crown-him-the-king-of-kings/ Mon, 16 Jun 2008 01:54:35 GMT Glorious Waterfall After a pretty challenging hike, about 45 minutes of ups and downs from camp... Anne and I made it with a couple of dozen campers. Greg and Vic stayed with others for water-front activities... They had already climbed it the ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/the-temperature-is-rising/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/the-temperature-is-rising/ Sun, 15 Jun 2008 01:54:28 GMT Surprised by Sun Though the weather forecast called for more rain... the sky opened up and poured down sunshine most of the day. It ended up being the warmest day yet. Greg's basketball class - A League of His Own... Though Greg's specialty is ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/up-for-a-swim/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/up-for-a-swim/ Sat, 14 Jun 2008 01:54:19 GMT Friends for Life Aylah and Ashley snuggle up for the frigid "hobo" breakfast on the beach on Thursday morning. It's been raining off and on for the past two days... It looks about the same for the next two days... but should be warming up a ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/worship-with-us/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/worship-with-us/ Fri, 13 Jun 2008 01:54:08 GMT We've seen several eagles flying around which has definitely inspired awe in God. My pictures didn't turn out near as nice as this one I found, however the greatest one seen was flying right outside our chapel windows with a huge fish dangling ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/meet-the-kids-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/meet-the-kids-/ Thu, 12 Jun 2008 01:53:59 GMT Kids from all over south-western Alaska... here are the names of some of the villages... Egegik, Iliamna, Igiugig, Kakhonak, Dillingham, Nushagak, Kenai, Naknek, Kanakanak... your love, prayers, and gifts are enabling the grace of Jesus into ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-tuesday/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-tuesday/ Wed, 11 Jun 2008 01:53:36 GMT Mandolin ManGreg offering his musical abilities to the Lord. The praise time is very vibrant and the kids are totally into it! --------------------Exhorting Elder Teaching on John 1:1,14 - Jesus existed long before he was ever born, and was ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/here-come-the-kids/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/here-come-the-kids/ Tue, 10 Jun 2008 01:52:48 GMT Mission Bell is Ringing The Mission Bell rings for every activity through the day... a reminder of how people have been called to worship through the ages. -----------------Coming and Going... Kids leaving Sr. High Camp & arriving for our ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/another-great-day-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/another-great-day-/ Mon, 09 Jun 2008 01:52:28 GMT The Mountains Declare the Glory of God "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths."... Isaiah 2:3b The massive mountain in our view is named ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe-and-sound/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/safe-and-sound/ Sun, 08 Jun 2008 01:52:14 GMT Safe and Sound Our final approach gives you a unique perspective on the bay where the Tanalian Bible Camp is situated along Lake Clark.  Lake Clark is over 60 miles long and 5 miles wide.  We arrived safely, and are grateful to the ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/off-we-go-into-gods-wild-blue-yonder/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/off-we-go-into-gods-wild-blue-yonder/ Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:51:56 GMT   Today's weather might not be quite as clear as this photo indicates. Regardless, we are trusting God for traveling mercies as we traverse the 4068 miles to Anchorage and beyond to Port Alsworth Alaska. It means a lot to us to have so ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-just-about-ready-to-leave-/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/alaska-mission-trip-just-about-ready-to-leave-/ Wed, 04 Jun 2008 01:54:41 GMT Countdown... 5.4.3.2...     Thanks for your prayers for the Alaska team as we are on final few days of preparation... keep looking here for daily updates on our mission trip. Thanks SO much for your love and support -Your ... http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/2008-missions-conference/ http://www.villagebible.org/short-term-mission-trips/2008-missions-conference/ Mon, 21 Jan 2008 01:55:27 GMT Our missions conference this year was the first “peak” of what we hope will be several several summits in the missions ministry of Village Bible Church this year. The missions committee decided that this would be a great ...