Making a Difference in a Globalized World: Short-term Missions that Work - Hardcover

Occhipinti, Laurie A.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1566997585 ISBN 13: 9781566997584

Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2014

Synopsis

Every year, an estimated 1.6 million Americans participate in short-term mission trips, spending over one billion dollars—figures that have increased exponentially in the last two decades. About one third of U.S. congregations sponsor such trips each year. While they are referred to as “mission” trips, many trips focus not on conversion or evangelism, but on service projects—building a playground, providing medical care, or serving free meals to the poor. Short-term mission participants have a genuine desire to transform conditions of poverty, yet they don't always know how to go about it; many people involved in short-term mission work virtually reinvent the wheel when they design and plan their service projects.

Making a Difference in a Globalized World: Short-term Missions thatWork is a guide to leaders of such trips. The book presents clear insight and research from anthropologists and development professionals, and encourages individuals to lead mission trips that make a greater impact on the communities that they are serving.

The text provides:

• a framework for planning short-term mission trips;
• foundation for planning;
• personal anecdotes and case studies;
• and practical suggestions for volunteer opportunities.

This handbook is a vital resource for any potential mission volunteers or organizers.

About this title

About the Author

Laurie A. Occhipinti, PhD, is professor in the Department of Anthropology, Geography, and Earth Science at Clarion University. She is the author of Acting on Faith: Economic Development in Indigenous Communities in Northern Argentina.

Review

Occhipinti asks penetrating questions about how hosts and visitors can benefit more fully from mission trips. She focuses on deepening relationships and moving from charity to social justice. As an anthropologist, she sees what many of us miss, and conveys her rich insights in a personal and accessible style. (William M. Kondrath, VISIONS, Inc.; executive coach; coeditor of the Journal of Religious Leadership)

Leaders and participants who read this book will find answers to many of the questions that come up about short-term mission. Occhipinti gives insight and practical tips on how to build effective partnerships, create meaningful cultural exchange, and ensure that projects will help communities. (Allyson Drinnon, Associate Director, Volunteer Engagement, Habitat for Humanity International)

Edition details

• Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
• Publication date: 2014
• ISBN 10: 1566997585
• ISBN 13: 9781566997584
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 146