- 1). Build a healthy team dynamic by having regular, attendance-required meetings. Plan fun activities to encourage team members to get to know each other. Early on, discuss each member's roles during the mission. Help the team understand each member's strengths by doing a strength finder or personality test together. Be sure to pray together, share meals together and meet often enough to get used to being around each other. Make sure to work on building a fluid team that encourages everyone interacting with one another, not hanging with who they feel most comfortable. Completing a weekly missions bible study together is a great way to get everyone involved, talking and feeling connected.
- 2). Study the language of the people you are going to serve. People's hearts open when they hear their own language being spoken to them. Earn trust with them by taking the time to learn a few basic phrases, some that are conversational and some that are medical in nature.
- 3). Know the academics of the procedures your team will perform. An eyeglass clinic mission trip requires much different preparation than a flu shot clinic. Understand your own role, whether it be taking blood samples, cleaning up or handing out medicines. Study up on the other roles being performed in case someone becomes ill and needs a substitute.
- 4). Research the people who live in the place you will be serving with the hope of understanding their life, culture and particular mindset. Having this will help bridge the gap between just being there to serve them medically and ministering to their spirits as well.
- 5). Pray on your own and as a team. Cover safety, success of the specific mission you are going for and health. Pray for favor and grace for your team, ease with government officials and for hearts and minds to be open.
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