Mission Journey Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the frequently asked questions we get asked about our Mission Journeys (previously called Short-Term Missions).

Where do I get a passport?

Passport applications can be downloaded from several internet sites, including www.G3visas.com or www.travel.state.gov. The passport form must be presented and signed in person at an authorized passport acceptance facility. A certified copy of your birth certificate and two passport photos are required with applications. Please note: Passports must be valid for 6 months after your return to the USA.

Will I have to have any immunizations?

Most of the places we travel to on our Mission Journeys do recommend immunizations. For the most up-to-date information on what is needed for the area in which you are interested, visit the CDC website www.cdc.gov/travel. Your primary care physician might be able to provide some of your immunizations as well. You will be responsible for covering the expenses of immunizations; this amount could range from approximately $100-$500 depending on your current immunizations and insurance.

How do I pay for the trip?

$150 non-refundable deposit is required for each Mission Journey. In addition, participants are required to raise the necessary prayer and remaining financial support for their Mission Journey. Your team leader will go over support training and deadlines during your team member training sessions. Any funds not raised by the deadlines must be covered by the individual team member. Bent Tree Missions is not responsible for covering the expenses of a team member in the event of a team shortfall.

What does the support cover?

The support you raise covers your travel costs, evacuation insurance, food, lodging, visas, ministry expenses, and local ground transportation. Participants are responsible for passport and immunization expenses, personal needs and souvenirs.

Is there a waiver form?

Each participant will be required to sign a Release/Waiver Form releasing Bent Tree, its leadership and local out-of-country leadership from liability. If the team member is under the age of 18, a parent Release/Waiver form will be required for same.

What will the accommodations be like on the Mission Journey?

Accommodations depend on the destination and will range from staying in people’s homes or ministry centers, to sleeping in tents, to the comfort of your own bed in hotels. Flexibility will be key for all participants.

What about insurance?

In addition to your personal health insurance, Bent Tree Missions will provide individual insurance for the dates you will be on your Mission Journey. Although there will be limited medical benefits, the main purpose for this insurance is for emergency medical evacuation expense and for emergency reunion expense for a family member.

What about training?

Bent Tree Missions offers a very thorough cross-cultural training and team-building program. There will be a minimum of 4 training sessions for all potential Mission Journey participants, plus any additional meetings that your team leader determines necessary before your journey begins. Once home, there will be a debriefing session. These training sessions are mandatory, and should be considered prior to your decision to apply for a Mission Journey.

How do Mission Journeys fit into Bent Tree’s Global Outreach Strategy?

Bent Tree partners with national leaders, missionaries and agencies who are training national leadership to reach out to their neighbors with the Good News and love and compassion of Jesus Christ.

All global Mission Journeys are linked to our long-term Missions efforts. Teams are sent primarily to our Global Partners, and the missionaries who are sent out by Bent Tree. Each year we work with our Global Partners and selected missionaries & ministries to determine if this is the best time to send a team. Together we determine what the objective of the Mission Journey will be based on their most pressing needs. It is our desire to be a blessing to those with whom we serve, to be a source of encouragement, and to assist them in the ministry God has called them to in their own countries.

Still have questions? Please contact Marganne Pearce at mpearce@btbf.org.