I am on the way to the Dominican to attend the opening of the Seminary in Santiago.  On my way through JFK I must have seen at least three groups of young people headed to what I assume are mission trips probably, to Haiti.  I pray they are safe and well.  We have talked before about mission trips in general and the consensus is among those in the know that they are really more the traveler than for the folks “in country”.  The tougher talking among those in the know say that mission trips – short term  harm more than help.  I don’t want to go that far.

The committee that decides who goes on the Mary Okeyo trip wants to make sure that call it what it is; a mercy experience.  In the meantime all of you that plan mission trips really should talk to your District President and LCMS office of International Mission for advice and council.