Opening Doors for Church Growth

By ANGELA RICE
Coordinator of Short-term Missions, BMA Global

When we think about mission work, it’s easy to imagine faraway places, long-term commitments, and a select few called to the field. But at BMA Global, we believe that every follower of Christ has a part to play in the Great Commission—and short-term missions is one of the most effective ways to participate in God’s work around the world.
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Short-term missions is more than just weeklong trips. They are intentional, strategic, and deeply impactful—both for the communities we serve and for the individuals who go. At BMA Global, our short-term teams are not just sent to do projects and return home. We work alongside local pastors and missionaries on the ground, building bridges that lead to lasting relationships and long-term ministry growth.
 
A Strategic Partnership for the Gospel
One of the unique aspects of BMA Global’s approach is our commitment to partnership. We don’t just drop into a location for a one-time event. Every short-term mission is coordinated with local church leaders and missionaries who are already faithfully serving their communities. These local leaders are introduced to new people during events planned around the short-term team’s visit, whether it’s a medical clinic, kids camp, youth outreach, sports event, or community project.
 
But the work doesn’t stop when the American team boards the plane home. The local missionary continues the mission by following up with new contacts, planting seeds of the gospel, and nurturing the relationships that began during the week. In this way, short-term missions act as a catalyst for church growth and church planting, helping the local church expand its reach and influence.

Lives Are Changed—Both There and Here
Serving on a short-term mission trip is a transformative experience. It gives individuals a front-row seat to God’s work through our BMA churches around the world. You’re not just hearing stories; you’re part of the story. You worship with believers from different cultures, share meals with people who become like family, and witness firsthand how God is moving in communities across the globe.
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For many who go, this firsthand experience ignites a deeper passion for missions. Some return home with a new sense of purpose, choosing to pray more earnestly, give more generously, or serve more faithfully. Others feel a call to go again—or even to serve long-term. Every person who says “yes” to going is changed, often in ways they could never anticipate.
 
I’ve had the privilege of serving on many short-term teams. And every time, I am amazed by how God uses these efforts. I’ve seen hearts softened, lives surrendered, churches strengthened, and new works planted. But I’ve also seen team members—young and old—come back with renewed faith, greater compassion, and a deeper commitment to the mission of God.
 
You Have a Role to Play
The Great Commission wasn’t given to a few—it was given to all of us. Whether you’re a student, a retiree, a teacher, or a business owner, you have something to offer. You don’t need to be a pastor or a preacher to be used by God on the mission field. You simply need a willing heart and a desire to serve.
 
By joining a short-term mission team with BMA Global, you step into a story that is bigger than yourself. You become part of something eternal. And as you serve others, you’ll find that God also does a deep work in you.
 
So, are you ready to say yes?
 
Let God use your feet to walk into new places. Let Him use your hands to serve others. Let Him use your heart to share His love. Short-term missions open the door—for church growth, for new churches to be planted, and for your own faith to grow in ways you never imagined.
 
BMA Global is ready. The mission is active. Will you go?

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